Pro Kabaddi: Puneri Paltan coach credits crowd for win against Dabang Delhi

Ashok Shinde

Puneri Paltan registered only its second win in this season’s Star Sports Pro Kabaddi to start its homecoming on a fabulous note. The Paltan looked a solid unit especially in the second half when they managed to have the Dabang Delhi side out twice and come back from an 8-eight point deficit in the first half to eventually win the game 33-28.

The Paltan enjoyed a solid backing from its supporters which rallied behind the team and guided the team to victory against a strong Dabang Delhi side.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Puneri Paltan coach Ashok Shinde lauded his home fans and credited them of making a real difference in the outcome of the game.

“We have a young team who aren’t used to playing at such a big stage, so we have often collapsed in the last few minutes of the game. But today, thanks to a wonderful support from our fans, our team got that extra boost to last the distance and claim the win”, said happy Puneri Paltan coach.

Ashok Shinde though admitted that his Puneri Paltan side is still a work in progress and would need time to realize the potential they boast. “My team is very young and we need to give them time. We can’t expect them to deliver straight away and need to give them time. This is a great exposure to them and I’m sure they get stronger by every game they play”, claimed Ashok Shinde.

Ashok Shinde decided to change his approach slightly before the game and gave his team the freedom to play their own game. “Today we changed our strategy and I asked them to enjoy and play their natural game. With our semi-final chances now gone, the pressure was off them and they delivered beautifully”, said the former Arjuna Award winner.

The Puneri Paltan though don’t have any time for celebration as they take on league leaders U Mumba tomorrow at the Balewadi Sports Complex’s Indoor Stadium. After conquering Delhi, U Mumba will present the Paltan with an altogether different challenge.