NBP to face Wapda in final

KARACHI A strong Wapda scored dramatic victory in sudden death session against Habib Bank to enter the Quaid-e-Azam Gold Cup Hockey final where they face NBP on Tuesday at the HCP stadium. After playing one-all draw in the regulation and extra time, both Wapda and HBL were tied three-all in the penalty stroke session. However, in the sudden death session Wapda scored while HBL failed. In full-time, HBL had scored through Nasir Shahzad and Wapda had equalized through Sohail Abbas who converted a penalty corner. The two equally balanced teams fought hard for superiority. A number of scoring chances came their way but those were not converted into goals. Only two goals resulted in full and extra time. Earlier in the first semi-final, NBP defeated Pakistan Steel 2-1. National Bank of Pakistan had to use all skills to counter a spirited challenge from Pakistan Steel which came close to upset the bankers in the first semi-final. Steel makers took the lead in 22 minute through Muhammad Rauf who placed the ball at the back of the cage through a striking field move. The team could have consolidated their lead and secured the play in their favour had they not missed couple of scoring chances. Nasir Ahmed and Malik Imran missed open scoring opportunities. With luck favouring and opponents squandering chances, the NBP clawed its way into the match. Shortly before the lemon time, Tariq Aziz with a spectacular move netted the equaliser. The score was tied one all at half time. The two teams created a number of good moves in the second session but failed to produce a goal until 60th minute when the bankers secured the semi-final. Muhammad Atif with a wristy flick converted a penalty corner to clinch the issue for the NBP team.

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