HIL 2014: Delhi Waveriders vs Punjab Warriors - a dream finale awaits

The second season of the Hero Hockey India League has come to its business end, with last year’s runners-up Delhi Waveriders to contest this season’s most consistent team Jaypee Punjab Warriors on Sunday, February 23, 2014 at Astroturf Hockey Stadium of Ranchi.

Delhi Waveriders to meet Jaypee Punjab Warriors in the final of HIL 2014 at Ranchi

Delhi progressed to the final by defeating UP Wizards 1-0 in the first semi-final here at Ranchi. The only goal of the match came from Yuvraj Walmiki in the 15th minute. Though UP fought hard in the second half, it was to no avail. Neither penalty corners nor their attacking moves worked for them. As a result, Waveriders cruised to the grand finale.

The second semi-final between Jaypee Punjab Warriors and defending champions Ranchi Rhinos saw a relatively closer finish which has put Punjab into their first finale. With as many as five goals in the match, the fast-paced encounter from both sides cheered the crowd to the fullest.

Sandeep Singh was the star for the Warriors with two goals, both from penalty corners. Ranchi tried to level the score through a penalty corner in the final minute of the game, but Warrior’s goal-keeper saved it successfully.

The final promises to be a thrilling battle given the performances of both the sides – Delhi and Punjab. Each of them won seven matches in the league stage, but Warriors lost only their opening match (against Delhi) compared to two defeats for the Waveriders (against Kalinga Lancers and the return match against Punjab).

One could not expect a better finale as the top two teams of this season are going to face off for the elusive Swarovski trophy and 2.5 crore prize money.

It would be interesting to see the strategy of Cedric D’Souza, coach of Delhi Waveriders, to counter the seemingly unstoppable Sandeep Singh who is the leading scorer of the tournament with nine goals. Of course, Delhi has a slight advantage in the experience department, having been the runners-up last season. But you can’t discount the Punjab line-up either.

It will be Delhi’s defence vs Punjab’s attack tonight. If Delhi get an early lead, Punjab has the ability to counter-attack. But if the reverse happens, that is, if Punjab get an early lead, then Delhi would be in trouble because their track record in the second half is comparatively not very good.

Overall, it will be a fascinating contest to watch and a massive crowd is expected if the heavy rush for match tickets is any indication. The Sunday factor could add a bonus to viewership. Let’s hope for an entertaining performance from both sides, and may the best team win.