Former champions Bangalore Hi-Fliers made a strong comeback after trailing 0-2 to score a thrilling win over local favourites Chandigarh Dynamos 3-2 in the Premier Hockey League at the Sector 42 Stadium here on Sunday.
After surviving two strong raids by Hi-Fliers, Dynamos struck twice in the space of three minutes with drag flicker Sandeep Singh netting two stunning goals from their two short corners in the 10th and 12th minutes.
In the 23rd minute, Hi-Fliers pulled one back with speedy striker Sandeep Michael earning the team's second short corner. Dynamos Chandigarh goalkeeper Baljit Singh blocked Len Aiyappa's low drag flick but Hi-Fliers’ Korean import You Hyo-sik converted the rebound.
After the first two quarters, Hi-Fliers opened up the game and despite an element of risk involved, they went all out in the attack and stretched the Dynamos’ defence.
Bimal Lakra was outstanding in the midfield and got good support from Vikramkanth and VS Vinaya as they completely dominated the midfield and fed the forwards well.
The Bangalore team also made best use of the speed and skills of their Korean player, You, who was the livewire of the team with his speedy runs.
Hi-Fliers scored the equaliser in the 37th minute though You. Cheeyanna, the junior Indian camper, slotted home to earn the match-winner for Hi-Fliers.
Other match result: Sher-e-Jalandhar bt Maratha Warriors 5-4 (via sudden death).