Challenge Cup, Hockey: Two late goals helped New Police Boys oust Athletic Club 2-0 to enter the semifinals of the Challenge Cup Hockey tournament at Police Lines Takli ground on Thursday.

In the first half, both teams missed chances galore as the score remained goalless. Athletic Cup goalkeeper Rohit Gaikwad did a splendid job under the bar to thwart several New Police Boys moves.

The deadlock was finally broken by Sayyad Niyaz Rahim when he converted penalty corner in the 43rd minute with a rasping shot which beat the outstretched hands of Gaikwad.

Eleven minutes later, Rahul Suryawanshi struck a brilliant field goal to seal the fate of Athletic. The ace forward dribbled the ball past a couple of defenders before banging it home much to the jubilation of his friends, who were cheering from the sidelines.

The margin of victory could have been more had not New Police Boys wasted numerous goal-scoring chances. Athletic Club custodian also saved at least half a dozen chances with his athleticism.

After a gap of a day, the remaining two quarterfinals will be played on Saturday