January 2, 2003	Thursday	Shawwal 28, 1423

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LAHORE, Jan 1: Hissam Ali Hyder struck three goals as Master Paints upset ZPF by 7 1/2 to 4, in the New Year Cup polo tournament on Wednesday. The winners had one and a half goal advantage on handicap.

Master Paints got  off to a flying start when Hissam opened the scoring in the first chukker. Sufi Muhammad Haris increased the lead to 3 1/2 goals to 2, scoring a field goal in the second chukker. ZPF scored their first goal through Taimur Mawaz, before the second chukker came to a close. Master Paints surged ahead scoring three goals in the third, with Hissam scored back to back goals to complete his three goal tally. Sufi Muhammad Amir then added another goal.

In between, Sattar Niazi scored a goal for the losers which reduced the margin to 6 1/2-2. Master  Paints scored their final goal when Sufi Amir struck in the fourth chukker. ZPF hit back twice but could only reduce the margin to 7 1/2 goals to 4, through Sattar Niazi and Taimur, who went on to score his second goal of the match.

Meanwhile, two matches were decided in the  Novices  Cup on Wednesday. Five goals by Taimur Malik helped Guard Rice beat Sherwood 6 1/2-4.

In a very interesting match which could have swung either way, Diamond Paints defeated Balochies by 5 1/2 goals to 5. The winners had a one and a half goal handicap.  

Mir Shoaib Ahmad scored twice, while Nasir and Amanat Ali scored a goal apiece.