The Hindu: Chennai: Indian Bank had to beat off a strong challenge and overcome a 0-2 deficit to dispose of Sports Authority of India ‘A’ in the Finpro Sports Management hockey tournament at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium on Thursday.

Indian Bank won by the odd goal in seven (4-3) to move into the semifinals.

Down by two goals in the first half when SAI struck through Sathyarajan and Jayson Robson, Indian Bank had to struggle to strike harmony.

Only the expertise and experience of seasoned players like Tirmalvalavan kept Indian Bank, reckoned as a formidable outfit in the State, afloat.

It was Tirumal’s craft that shored up Indian Bank as he scored twice within a space of three minutes in the second half.

Philip Marin followed but Dhamu netted to raise visions of a tie-breaker in the 61 minute. But four minutes before the hooter came the match-winner from international V. Raja.

Earlier, Shyam Kumar gave another authoritative performance netting three goals for ICF which stormed into the last four at the expense of Nilgiris District HA. ICF won 5-0.

Support for Shyam came from Andrew Jacob who struck twice. — Special Correspondent