Dabang Mumbai's best 3 matches in HIL 2016

The Mumbai-based hockey franchise Dabang Mumbai HC concluded the Coal India Hockey IndiaLeague on a positive note by winning the clash against Uttar Pradesh Wizards in their last leaguematch to keep their semi-final hopes alive. However, the Alphas lost out on the semi-final spot on thebasis of goal difference to Kalinga Lancers after the two teams were tied on same points after havingplayed 10 matches each.Despite an early exit from the campaign, there were lots of moments to cherish for the Mumbai-franchise. We take a look at the Alphas 3 of the best encounters in HIL 2016:

#1 DM 7-5 RR

Full-Time scorecard

After having lost their first 4 matches of the campaign in a closely fought fashion, the Alphas ended their losing streak in style. Ranchi Rays came into the match on a 4-match winning streak and were looking to consolidate their semi-final spot with a win over the Alphas.

However, it was Dabang Mumbai, who drew first blood with Diwakar Ram opening the scoring in the 11th minute, but Ashley Jackson’s penalty corner goal restored parity. Skipper Matthew Swann scored his only goal of the tournament in the second half to give the Alphas 3-1 lead, but Affan \Yousuf was given his marching orders and the Alphas were left to play the remainder of the match with a man down.

With an extra man advantage, the Rays took the lead through a Sarvanjit Singh field goal and a Jackson penalty corner a few minutes later. Despite being a man down, the Alphas continued to play their aggressive style of hockey, the young rising star of team Nilakanta Sharma rose to the occasion and fired a strong shot past Lovell to give the Alphas 5-4 lead by the end of third quarter.

It was the Alphas’ marquee signing Florian Fuchs who hit the final nail in Ranchi's coffin and give Mumbai a 7-4 lead. A late consolation goal was scored by Sandeep Singh in the dying moments of the match, but could not stop the Alphas to register their 1st win of the tournament. A much-needed victory indeed!