In an exhilarating match at the SDAT Multipurpose Indoor Stadium in Chennai, the Telugu Titans secured their first victory of PKL Season 10, narrowly defeating the Haryana Steelers 37-36 on Friday. The Titans' defensive prowess was the highlight of the game, with the team amassing an impressive 18 tackle points.
The early exchanges of the match saw both teams scoring points consistently. However, it was Shivam Patare’s Super raid that initially gave the Steelers an edge over the Titans. Despite the Steelers' effective raiding, their defensive unit struggled, allowing the Titans' raiders to keep the scoreline competitive throughout the first half.
The Steelers managed to secure only two tackle points in the first half, indicating a notable weakness in their defensive strategy. Their first tackle point of the match also led to the first All-Out, putting them ahead 16-11. But this lead was short-lived, as the Titans showcased a formidable defensive performance to bridge the gap. In a dramatic twist at the end of the first half, the Titans executed an All-Out, reducing their deficit to just one point at the interval.
The second half of the match remained closely contested, with the Steelers improving their defensive efforts but still unable to exert significant pressure on the Titans. Patare's consistent raiding kept the Steelers in the game.
In the final moments, the Titans demonstrated remarkable resilience. Ajit Pawar and Hamid Nader executed Super tackles, flipping the game in favor of the Titans despite being outnumbered on the mat. A crucial tackle on Patare with just 30 seconds remaining almost sealed the victory for the Titans. The Titans' final efforts ensured their lead was maintained, culminating in their first win of the season.
The match was a testament to the Titans' defensive strength and ability to overcome challenges, marking an important milestone in their journey in PKL Season 10. Their triumph in this closely fought encounter not only brings them valuable points but also boosts their confidence for the upcoming matches in the league.
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