PKL 2019 | Defence wasn’t on same page today, says Srinivas Reddy

Jaipur Pink Panthers were not at their best in the game against UP Yoddha on Monday. They were outplayed in all the departments and lost the game 24-31. Their defence was the main culprit as they were only able to score nine points. Sandeep Dhull even with his orange sleeve wasn’t able to make an impact as he and the other corner Amit Hooda, the backbone of Panthers defence, scored a point each. 

“The defence wasn’t on the same page today. The chemistry between the two corners wasn’t right. The errors in defence piled up and they took a substantial lead. After that, they managed the time well,” coach Srinivas Reddy said in the post-match press conference.

In raiding department skipper Deepak Niwas Hooda lacked support as apart from his nine points the other raiders were only able to score five points. Nitin Rawal(2), Deepak Narwal(2) and Nilesh Saluke(1) provided small cameos but they were unable to convert their points into bigger numbers.

“Not really. We just made uncharacteristic mistakes in defence early in the game. Their confidence was boosted by that and they just carried the momentum from there on right up until the end,” coach Srinivas said on being asked if the team is committing the same mistake as last season.

“VIVO Pro Kabaddi is unpredictable. Any team can win on any given day. U.P. Yoddha have an outstanding roster. Well balanced in offence and defence. They showed great poise and maturity today to get the win,” coach Reddy concluded.