Chennai, Sep 29 (NationPress) The Gujarat Giants showcased a stellar performance led by Mohammadreza Shadloui and Ankit Dahiya, clinching a decisive 33-27 victory against the UP Yoddhas at the SDAT Multi-Purpose Indoor Stadium on Monday.

While the Yoddhas’ Bhavani Rajput contributed crucial points, his efforts were overshadowed as the Giants managed to secure a vital win, breaking their five-match losing streak.

The Yoddhas initially took the lead, but the Giants swiftly equalized at 1-1. The Yoddhas regained their footing, pulling ahead with a two-point lead, making it 4-1 before Harish narrowed the gap to 4-2.

The Giants then rallied back, with both raiders and defenders making significant contributions, leveling the game at 5-5. Shortly after, Rakesh executed a spectacular Super Raid – the 50th of the season – which earned three points in one go and propelled the Giants into the lead. Just before the halftime break, Mohammadreza Shadloui executed a powerful raid that resulted in an All Out, allowing the Giants to extend their lead to five points.

After the interval, the UP Yoddhas attempted to reclaim control, but the Giants maintained their pressure. With just over six minutes left in the first half, the Giants led by five points, but Bhavani Rajput pulled off a Super Raid, bringing the score to 16-15 and reigniting hope for the Yoddhas.

In response, the Giants quickly scored a few points, and a remarkable tackle by Ankit Dahiya increased their lead to 19-15. By halftime, the score reflected the Giants’ strong performance at 21-16.

The second half commenced with a concerted effort from the UP Yoddhas, who scored early points. However, Ankit Dahiya struck back with a brilliant tackle, ensuring the Giants retained their momentum.

The Giants kept the game under control, preventing the Yoddhas from capitalizing on their early opportunities. In the initial ten minutes of the second half, the Giants maintained a comfortable lead, showcasing their dominance both in attacks and defense. By the time the Strategic Time Out was called, they held a four-point advantage.

Following the break, the Giants continued strongly, preserving a five-point lead. With less than five minutes remaining, the Yoddhas narrowed the gap to four points. Bhavani Rajput then executed a successful raid, bringing the score to 29-26, offering a glint of hope for his team.

Yet, Ankit Dahiya responded swiftly with a decisive tackle, adding a point for the Giants. With just over a minute left, Mohammadreza Shadloui made a critical tackle to restore the Giants’ four-point lead.

He followed up with a multi-point raid, closing the match at 33-27, securing the Giants a six-point win.

The UP Yoddhas are set to face Dabang Delhi on October 3, while the Gujarat Giants will take on U Mumba on October 2.