Tirkey nets three for Steelers

Chandigarh, Feb 23 (UNI) Captain Dilip Tirkey converted three penalty corners as Orissa Steelers routed Maratha Warriors by 4-1 in the Premier Hockey League at the floodlit Sector 42 Hockey Stadium here tonight.

The former Indian captain converted penalty corners in the 19th, 27th and 38th minutes.

Mario Almada contributed the lone goal in the 25th minute for Steelers. The only goal for Maratha Warriors came from the stick of Kuldeep Singh who converted a penalty corner in the 67th minute.

With this win, Orissa Steelers became the first team to virtually qualify for the final with 25 points from 11 matches. Their las match is against Chennai Veerans.

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