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The second week of Hero Hockey India league 2015 is already in progress and still no team seems to be running away in the league phase. The matches in this year’s tourney is swinging like a pendulum on the wall and every team is in with a chance to qualify for the final stages. Under this cloud of uncertainty, the table toppers Punjab Warriors will host the incumbent champions Delhi Waveriders in Mohali.
Punjab comfortable at the top of table
Last year’s runners up are yet to taste defeat and with 12 points are sitting comfortable in top of the pile. Managing two wins and one draw in their last three matches, the Warriors looks like a force to be reckoned with.
The whole side is functioning like a well-oiled machine and all and sundry player have chipped in for the wins. As expected the mercurial Sandeep Singh is again turning out to be the go-to man for the team with 4 goals already under his belt.
The other positives for the team has been the performances of their Captain Jamie Dwyer and the Indian youngsters. The captain has three goals to his name and is again looking at his menacing best.
Delhi yet to hit the top gear
The performance of the reigining champions has been a bit disappointing as they are yet to find their feet in the tourney. With two draws and no wins, they look out of sorts and off their game.
Their bounty experience in the league has come to their rescue in each of their drawn matches. For instance, in their first match against UP Wizards, the team could barely precipitate a well linked frontal attack and had to rely on individual brilliance. The forwards of the team are looking wanting at times and haven’t been able to link-up well with the midfield.
Delhi have to produce their top game in upcoming matches if they want to repeat their last year’s feat and retain the championship.
Prediction
Punjab Warriors look more formidable than Delhi Waveriders at present but the reigning champions can bounce back any time under the inspirational leadership of Sardar Singh.
