Yuva Kabaddi Series: Vasco Vipers Triumph Over Himalayan Tahrs to Claim Division 3 Title and Secure Grand Finale Spot
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Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), Dec 21 (NationPress) The Vasco Vipers emerged victorious against the previously undefeated Himalayan Tahrs in a thrilling final match of the 11th edition of the Yuva Kabaddi Series. This victory allows them to become the first team to earn a spot in the Grand Finale, as the Division 3 stage of the tournament concluded in an exhilarating manner at the Karpagam Academy of Higher Education on Saturday. Following their impressive win in the Division 3 Final, the Vasco Vipers have officially qualified for the Grand Finale.
The Yuva Kabaddi Series has laid out a structured pathway for teams aiming to reach the Grand Finale, scheduled for January-February 2025. This prestigious event will showcase 12 teams.
The qualification process promotes inclusivity, ensuring at least one team from Division 3, a minimum of two teams from Division 2, and at least three teams from Division 1 will make it to the Grand Finale. The remaining slots will be filled through the upcoming Division 2 and Division 1 stages, where teams will compete fiercely for the chance to win the coveted championship.
The day commenced with the final league match of Division 3, where the Vasco Vipers achieved a commanding 62-38 victory over the Ranchi Rangers. The Vipers, having already secured their place in the final, treated this match as a preparatory game. Players Laxman Gowda and Bhargav displayed exceptional performance, each achieving Super 10s, while Abhishek contributed significantly off the bench with 13 raid points and two tackle points.
For the Rangers, substitutes Bittu Kumar and Monu Kumar fought hard, scoring 15 and five points respectively; however, the rest of the team struggled, leading to a disappointing end to their campaign.
The eagerly awaited Division 3 Final between the Himalayan Tahrs and Vasco Vipers did not disappoint. The Tahrs, who remained unbeaten throughout the league stage, entered the final as the favourites, but the Vipers had different plans. Both teams exchanged leads throughout the match. With just 10 minutes remaining, the Tahrs seemed on the brink of victory, holding a lead and threatening to execute another all-out against the Vipers.
Nonetheless, the Vipers' defense shone in the final moments, executing four Super Tackles to sway the momentum in their favor. Prince was a standout for the Vipers, achieving a Super 10, while Sachin excelled defensively with a High 5. For the Tahrs, Mayank Saini stood out by scoring seven raid points and one tackle point, but a lack of support from his teammates led to their downfall. The Vipers' remarkable comeback resulted in a 34-30 victory, claiming the Division 3 title and ending the Tahrs' unbeaten run in dramatic fashion.
With the conclusion of Division 3, the Yuva Kabaddi Series will progress to Division 2, which is set to commence on Monday (December 23).
