Visakhapatnam: Defending champions Haryana Steelers showcased grit and determination as they pulled off a stunning 37-32 comeback victory against UP Yoddhas at the Vishwanadh Sports Club in Vizag.
Despite trailing by as many as 11 points early in the game, the Steelers turned the tide in the second half, led by outstanding defensive efforts from Rahul Ahri and Rahul Sethpal, both securing High Fives. Naveen Kumar and Mayank Saini also made crucial contributions, while Gagan Gowda’s Super 10 went in vain for UP Yoddhas.
The contest began brightly for UP Yoddhas, with Gagan Gowda striking first through a two-point raid. Hitesh’s tackle on Shivam Patare further widened their control. Bhavani Rajput chipped in with a Do-or-Die raid, and Sumit dismissed Vinay to set up the game’s first ALL OUT within nine minutes, giving Yoddhas a 10-4 lead.
Even when Rahul Ahri attempted to spark a comeback with a key tackle, Gowda responded with a powerful Super Raid, extending the advantage to 10 points. However, Jaideep Dahiya’s Super Tackle and Naveen Kumar’s sharp raiding helped Steelers reduce the deficit to 12-17 at halftime.
The momentum shifted dramatically in the second half. Rahul Sethpal’s tackle on Gowda led to an ALL OUT on the Yoddhas, levelling the score at 19-19. From there, it became a thrilling point-for-point battle, with Yoddhas narrowly ahead 24-23 going into the final quarter.
Gagan Gowda completed his Super 10, but Haryana’s champions answered back with Naveen Kumar’s attacking brilliance. Rahul Ahri sealed his High Five to give Steelers a three-point cushion, followed by Sethpal’s own High Five that stretched the lead to five points in the closing minutes.
With Mayank Saini’s timely raids adding to the tally, Haryana Steelers completed a remarkable turnaround, cementing their reputation as relentless fighters in the Pro Kabaddi League.
