Bhubaneswar, Jan. 23 -- Hyderabad Toofans defeated HIL GC 2-0 in their Men's Hero Hockey India League (HIL) Playoff clash to book their spot in Qualifier 2, eyeing a place in the final once again at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Friday.
Shilanand Lakra (16', 39') stole the show as he scored a brilliant brace to help his side progress ahead in the tournament.
It was a lively start to the game however both sides couldn't break the deadlock in the opening quarter.
Hyderabad Toofans had won an early penalty corner in the second minute, but they couldn't convert from the opportunity. Moments later, Sam Ward of HIL GC came close to scoring as he deflected the ball towards the goal but was met by a strong save by Toofans' goalkeeper Jean Paul D...