Rhinos played a patient game against Wizards in Lucknow, absorbing all the pressure in the first three quarters, and then scoring thrice in the final quarter.
Rhinos have been very solid in defence throughout this tournament, and would be keen to continue their good show going into their home game against Magicians at the Astroturf Hockey Stadium.
Birendra Lakra has been a standout performer in the defence for Rhinos, and the Magicians' forwards would have their task cut out, when they try and get past him.
Mandeep Singh has been in superb form for Rhinos this season, and he would be one guy Magicians need to be wary of. Mandeep scored twice against Wizards yesterday, and the hosts would be expecting a similar performance from this talented player.
Magicians, on the other hand, have their own problems. At half-way stage, the team coached by Aussie legend Ric Charlesworth is yet to win a game, and is at the bottom of the points table.
Their star drag-flicker Sandeep Singh has been in tremendous form, but just has not got enough support. Their 11 of the 14 goals have come from penalty corners, and Sandeep has scored nine of them.
It's high time some of their other top players put a hand up and take responsibility. The forwards have made some brilliant individual moves, but converting it into a goal is something that the Magicians haven't been able to do.
The middle-line just hasn't been able to supply the forwards on a regular basis, and forwards have always lacked in numbers, to make a move threatening enough. (More)
