Ranchi rally past Kalinga for third win

In a top of the table clash, Ranchi Rays came from behind to defeat Kalinga Lancers 3-2 in Hockey India League Season Four action in Ranchi on Thursday.

Defending champions Ranchi thus completed a hat-trick of wins and now lead the table with 16 points after four matches.

Down 0-2, the hosts produced a brilliant fightback with skipper Ashley Jackson (39th minute) reducing the deficit from a penalty corner, while Timothy Deavin (48th) scored a field goal to seal the match.

For Kalinga, Malak Singh (33rd) had produced a field goal to give his team a 2-0 lead.

Ranchi take on Jaypee Punjab Warriors at the same venue on Saturday, while Kalinga meet hosts Debang Mumbai on Sunday.

After a hard-fought battle in the first two quarters, Kalinga drew first blood with Malak scoring three minutes into the third quarter. Six minutes later, Jackson powered the ball into the goal off a penalty corner, to reduce the deficit.

However, even after the end of the third quarter, the visitors still led 2-1, thanks to some superb saves by Andrew Charter.

It was Deavin who turned the match in the 48th minute when he showed lightning reflexes to slot in the on the rebound to make it 3-2.

With just five minutes to go, the Lancers played their hearts out but could not level the score.

Meanwhile, Delhi Waveriders will look to return to winning ways when they face Mumbai in an away game on Friday.