Puneri Paltans fought back inch by inch to force a 30-30 tie against a powerful Patna Pirates side in a thrilling Pro Kabaddi League 2016 match here on Thursday. Ajay Thakur (seven raid points) and Manjeet Chillar (three raid and four defence points) muscled in with their experience at the Balewadi stadium.
Pardeep Narwal (11 raid, three defence points) stole the show for the visitors. Patna was forced to share points after five wins in a row by Puneri, which is gradually making an impact as a team, helped by seniors Thakur and Chillar.
Clad in bright orange and white, the home team had quality players in all-rounder Manjeet and raider Thakur, on form the best specialists in the event. The visitors picked up early points to spurt ahead, on the strength of smart catching. Puneri captain Manjeet’s successful raid brought the crowds at Balewadi stadium to their feet. Patna raiders were more skilful and led 12-4 after getting the rivals all-out for the first time.
Patna was all-out as the host narrowed the deficit. Thakur and Manjeet tagged opponents and came close to catching up when a super raid by Pardeep Narwal in the 20th minute saw the visitor spurt ahead 20-16 at the break. Puneri was very much in the game, despite Manjeet caught in the Patna net. The home team replied by trapping Rajesh Mondal and before the cheer in the stands died down, Thakur had earned a raid point.
With eight minutes remaining, the host bagged a raid point and then captain Manjeet’s challenge of a decision proved successful. Two points separated the sides when Pardeep tagged two opponents to help Patna keep its nose ahead at 30-27. However, the home team drew level and forced a points split after trailing for a major part of the game.
Scores:
Puneri Paltans 30 (Ajay Thakur 7 pts, Manjeet Chillar 7) drew with Patna Pirates 30 (Pardeep Narwal 14).
Comments
SHARE