In an exhilarating display of skill and determination, GST Customs, Pune, and Hockey Lovers Club, along with Central Railway Club Pune, clinched their spots in the quarterfinals of the 3rd MJ Cup Invitational Hockey Tournament 2023, setting the stage for intense knockout battles.
Under the auspices of Hockey Maharashtra and orchestrated by the Excellency Hockey Academy in collaboration with the Dhanraj Pillay Foundation, the tournament witnessed unbeaten performances from all qualifying teams, creating an air of anticipation for the upcoming matches.
In Pool-C action, GST Customs, Pune, triumphed over Hockey Lovers Academy (HLA) with a commanding 6-2 victory. Stephan Swami and Felix Baa showcased their prowess with a double goal feat each, securing GST Customs’ entry into the quarterfinals.
Meanwhile, in Pool-B, Hockey Lovers Club (HLC) earned their place in the knockout stage by securing a 3-1 win against Mumbai Republicans. Nikhil Bhosale’s two goals and a penalty corner conversion by Yash Angir ensured HLC’s dominance in the first half, sealing their spot in the quarters.
While the teams’ impressive performances are commendable, skeptics argue that the tournament’s organization may favor certain clubs, potentially influencing the outcome.
