Indian Oil, PSB in semifinal of Surjit Hockey Tournament

Defending champions Indian Oil take on Army XI, while runners-up Punjab & Sind Bank will lock horns with Indian Railways in the semi-finals of the 32nd Indian Oil Servo Surjit hockey tournament at the Olympian Surjit Stadium in Jalandhar.

In their final league fixtures on Tuesday evening, Indian Oil blanked Indian Air Force 3-0. Earlier, PSB Delhi derailed Rail Coach Factory, Kapurtahala, by a 4-0 margin.

Karamjit Singh was the standout performer for the Bankmen, scoring thrice. In the first match, Punjab & Sind Bank and Rail Coach Factory began on a strong note. RCF goalkeeper Jugraj Singh put up a strong show effecting some good saves early on.

PSB surged ahead in the 25th minute when Karamjit struck from the right flank. The team consolidated on the lead with a field effort from Ranjodh Singh in the 32nd minute. Just before half time, Karamjit deflected a cross from Ranjodh to put PSB ahead 3-0.

In the second half, RCF tried to break through but failed to get past the PSB defence. A 62nd-minute goal from Karamjit completed the winners’ tally.

In the second game, Indian Oil played to their reputation defeating IAF 3-0. Down to 11 men after injuries to five players, Indian Oil did not let that deter their game plan.

Gagandeep Singh found the net in the 13th minute and skipper Deepak Thakur sounded the boards in the 29th as the Oilmen took a 2-0 lead. Gagandeep added another in the very next minute. The scoreline remained unchanged in the second half, with Indian Oil sealing their semis slot.