BHUBANESWAR 29-Aug-2013 282
Odisha team returned home today after finishing third in the All-India Senior National Rugby Sevens Tournament, which was held at Srinagar from August 23 to 25. After losing to Jungle Crows (Kolkata) 7-17 in the semifinals, Odisha trounced formidable Mumbai Gymkhana 14-10 in a play-off match to secure the third position. Delhi Hurricanes emerged champions, defeating Jungle Crows in the final.
Earlier in the group league, Odisha won two matches and lost one to qualify for quarterfinals, where they prevailed over host Jammu & Kashmir 12-10. Led by Manas Kumar Jena, Odisha started their campaign on an auspicious note, thrashing Goa Magicians 29-14.
Despite a 7-15 loss against Delhi Hurricanes in the next game, Odisha entered the last-eight round thanks to a 42-5 emphatic victory over Mumbai Police in their last league clash.
Odisha Rugby Football Association secretary U K Mohanty described the state team`s showings as creditable and thanked the players for giving their best in the tournament.
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PHOTO: Odisha state rugby team in Bhubaneswar on August 29, 2013.
