The 97th edition of the All-India MCC-Murugappa Gold Cup hockey tournament began with a dramatic encounter as the
The match got off to an explosive start when SAI-NCoE’s Rohit Singh found the back of the net in the opening minute. However, the hosts responded with composure, turning the deficit into a 2-1 lead by the end of the first quarter. B.P. Somanna levelled the score in the sixth minute via a penalty corner, and Patras Tirkey added a second shortly after in the 10th minute to put Tamil Nadu in front.
A tactical battle of momentum
The second quarter saw SAI-NCoE claw their way back into the game through a moment of individual brilliance from Nitesh Sharma. In the 26th minute, Sharma embarked on a solo run along the left backline, eventually flicking the ball over the goalkeeper and into the top of the net to restore parity at 2-2.
The third quarter proved to be the most active period of the match, with both teams finding the target twice. Sumit Kindo regained the lead for Tamil Nadu in the 38th minute, expertly deflecting a flick from Pruthvi. SAI-NCoE responded almost immediately when Bhrat Kaushik capitalised on a rebound after the goalkeeper blocked an initial drag-flick from Nitesh Sharma. Before the quarter closed, B. Sathish restored the home side's advantage by deflecting a shot from Tirkey, setting the score at 4-3 heading into the final period.
Late drama seals the draw
The final quarter saw SAI-NCoE push hard for an equaliser, which they secured in the 46th minute. Siddhant Singh stepped up to convert a penalty corner, bringing the score to 4-4. Despite further efforts from both sides to find a winner, the defences held firm to ensure the points were shared in the tournament opener.
