Orissa Police send Nalco packing

Orissa Police trounced Nalco 3-0 in the opening match of the Nalco Cup State Hockey Championship at the floodlit Barabati Stadium in Cuttack today. Bijay Ekka was instrumental in the victory, scoring a quick brace in the 55th and 56th minutes. Susil Kujur drew first blood in the 22nd minute to enable the cops lead 1-0 at the breather. As many nine penalty corners, including six by Orissa Police, were wasted in the match. The tournament was inaugurated by High Court Justice A S Naidu. Nalco Director Jay Vergese, Orissa Olympic Association secretary Asirbad Behera, Orissa Hockey Association president Rama Krushna Patnaik and secretary Pratap Satpathy were present at the opening ceremony.