Bhartia post first win

Nagpur: Basco Anthony scored a brace as Bhartia Aqua Hockey Academy registered their first win by defeating Green City Sports Club 2-0 in the Vidarbha Hockey Association ‘B’ Division Hockey League tie at the Hislop College ground here on Wednesday.

In another match, last year’s semifinalists Young Police Boys crushed Cosmos Sports Club 7-0 to register their second successive victory.

After a barren first half, centre forward Basco Anthony made good use of the rebound that came his way after Shashank James’ attempt from the left flank in the 36th minute. James dribbled the ball past two defenders and smashed a powerful hit which was well saved by Green City goalie Sharik Khan but the rebound was brilliantly capitalised by Anthony.

Two minutes later, Green City skipper Imran Sheikh tried to score in a melee but a valiant save by Bhartia custodian Mohammad Afzal thwarted his effort.

In the 40th minute, Green City tried to equalise via a penalty corner but Rohan Joseph’s great defensive skills came to the rescue of Bhartia Academy.

In the dying moments, Anthony shattered the hopes of Green City with a superb goal through reverse flick.

Earlier in the first match, Young Police Boys thrashed Cosmos Sports Club 7-0.

After taking lead in the 5th minute Shahbaz Khan completed his brace in his 9th minute. Tushar Bamlekar (8th), Fahim Sheikh (10th), Vipin Madne (20th), Vinit Madne (37th) and Sakib Rahim scored a goal each to display a total team effort.