LAHORE, Jan 23: Mohammad Asad’s goal steered Wapda to victory in the National Under-21 Hockey Championship final as they overpowered the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) 1-0 in a gruelling match at the National Hockey Stadium here on Monday.

Though both the sides played aggressively, their poor finishing deprived them of goals in the first half.

After the resumption, however, Asad capitalised on the sixth short-corner with a drag-flick to put Wapda in front. Wapda then fought well till the final whistle to retain the lead, as the NBP tried their level best to equalise but all their efforts went in vain.

With the title, Wapda also earned a cash prize of Rs50,000 and the NBP received Rs30,000 and the runners-up trophy.

Earlier, the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) clinched third place, defeating Punjab Colours 3-2 on golden-goal.

After ending the first half tied at 1-1, the two teams again ended the second half 2-2 at the conclusion of the stipulated time. However, a 79th minute goal from SSGC’s Hammad Butt decided the match.

Besides Hammad, Mohammad Zahid (13th), Waseem Abbas (56th) were the other scorers for the winners. Nohaiz Zahid scored goals in the 26th and 42nd minutes for Punjab Colours.

The SSGC received a cash prize of Rs20,000.—Sports Reporter