HIL: Waveriders winless run continues, lose 2-3 to Punjab

Delhi Waveriders' winless streak continued as they lost 2-3 to defending champions Jaypee Punjab Warriors to slump to their third defeat in the fifth edition of the Hockey India League, here on Tuesday.

The loss meant Waveriders would continue to languish at the bottom of the six-team event while Punjab Warriors have jumped up by recorded their second win from four games.

The first quarter was devoid of any real action even as Punjab Warriors and Waveriders made some good forays into the opposition half, both the teams failed to create any clear chance till late into the quarter.

The match was expected to be a contest between Waveriders' defence and Punjab Warriors attack but the hosts looked impressive early on at the Shivaji Stadium.

However, the visitors had the last laugh in the quarter when they scored in the final minute via Dutchman Robert van der Horst, who scored with a precise reverse shot from top of the Waveriders circle after he was set up by Satbir Singh.

Punjab Warriors went into the break with a two-goal advantage, courtesy the field goal as according to new scoring rules is HIL one field strike is counted as two.

In the second quarter, it was all Waveriders as they attacked in numbers and created numerous scoring chances but goals eluded the hosts.

In the 18th minute Simon Child's reverse hit from a difficult angle was blocked by Punjab Warriors goalkeeper Tristan Clemons.

The Waveriders continued with their onslaught as Punjab Warriors were forced dug deep and defend in numbers.The Waveriders will next play Uttar Pradesh Wizards on Wednesday in their quest for maiden win.