The Haryana Steelers experienced a roller-coaster ride in PKL 10, ultimately finishing fourth in the points table with 11 wins, 10 losses, and 3 ties. They showcased some impressive victories, notably defeating the Gujarat Giants in the semi-finals with a score of 52 points. However, they also suffered disappointing defeats, exemplified by their loss to the Bengaluru Bulls in their last league game, conceding 53 points. Throughout the season, the Steelers struggled with consistency and confidence in their gameplay.
Despite the ups and downs, they made a remarkable journey to the PKL 10 Final, where they encountered the formidable Puneri Paltan. Unfortunately, the Steelers couldn’t replicate their earlier performances in the PKL 10 Final and fell short, losing 25-28 to the Paltan, who secured their maiden PKL title.
So, what went wrong for the Steelers in the PKL 10 Final? Here are some possible reasons:
- Lack of experience: The Steelers were playing their first-ever PKL 10 Final, while the Paltan had been runners-up twice before. The Steelers might have felt the pressure of the big occasion and failed to execute their plans. The Paltan, on the other hand, showed their composure and experience in the crunch moments.
- Poor raiding: The Steelers’ raiding department, which had been their strength throughout the season, let them down in the PKL 10 Final. Their star raiders Vinay Vinay and Shivam Patare, who had scored 22 and 18 points respectively in their semi-final win over Gujarat Giants, could only manage 7 and 6 points respectively in the PKL 10 Final. The Paltan’s defense, led by Pankaj Mohite, who was adjudged the best defender of the match, kept them at bay.
- Slow start: The Haryana Steelers had a slow start in the first half, where they trailed 9-16 at the break. They conceded the first all-out of the game in the 13th minute and never recovered from it. The Paltan, on the other hand, started with a bang and dominated the proceedings. The Steelers tried to stage a comeback in the second half, but it was too little too late.
- Injuries: The Steelers also suffered some injuries during the course of the match, which affected their momentum. Their captain Jaideep Dahiya, who had been their best defender in the season, had to leave the mat in the first half due to a shoulder injury. He returned in the second half but was not at his best. Their all-rounder Vikas Kandola also sustained a knee injury in the second half and had to be substituted.
Haryana Steelers showed their fighting spirit and resilience throughout the tournament and won many hearts. They will surely come back stronger in the next season and challenge for the title again.
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