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In the wake of an emphatic victory in their first match against Ranchi Rays, Kalinga Lancers will clash against Jaypee Punjab Warriors in the latter’s home-turf Mohali. Punjab, after their pulsating draw against Mumbai would definitely want to get back in the hunt.
Kalinga Lancers in top gear
Lancers got off to a flying start and hit a home run in their first match when they outplayed Ranchi all ends up. It was a complete performance by the Odisha outfit displaying the brilliance of one-touch hockey. The Indian youngsters did a fantastic job and were up to the task.
Pocketing five points from their first outing, Kalinga will wish to hit the jackpot again and double their points tally.To make that happen, they have enough aces up their sleeves and would use it profusely against Punjab. Lancers’ captain Vikram Kanth would be expected to manifest another Man of the match performance and lead from the front.
Kalinga’s defense didn’t allow too much space to the Rays and were rock solid. Ramon Alegre will again be the go-to guy at the back and will play a crucial role against the menacing frontline of Punjab.
Punjab looking to rebound after a shaky start
Punjab made a shaky start to their campaign as they had to share the spoils with the newcomers Dabang Mumbai. The game was too close to call as it swung both ways till the very end. Warriors were undone by conceding a late goal right before the hooter.
Against Lancers, Punjab have to be cautious till the dying embers of the match and must not concede late goals. Sandeep Singh’s brace against Mumbai portends good for the team and will be expected to score more. Captain Jamie Dwyer came into his own and scored a wonderful goal. He will be responsible to engender the forward line again. Custodian Jaap Stockmann’s crucial saves can play a key role against Odisha outfit.
Prediction
Both teams have enough quality to outplay each other and have even chances to win.
