Biddatanda Cup: Nellamakkada, Chendanda in last-eight round

Three-time champion Nellamakkada advanced into last-eight round with a hard-fought win against Cheppudira in the pre-quarters of Kodava family hockey tournament for Biddatanda Cup at Gen K S Thimayya Stadium at Cheriyaparambu here on Wednesday.

Nellamakkada, who have featured in six finals of the tournament, defeated Cheppudira in a seesaw battle, which went to the tie-breaker.

In the other pre-quarter tie, Chendanda, riding on a brace by Thammaiah, scored a resounding 4-1 victory against Chekkera. Roshan and Mokshith netted a goal apiece for the winners. Sajan Somaiah scored a consolation for Chekkera.

Mandepanda produced a clinical effort to see off Chandura 5-1. Bopanna and Chandan of Mandepanda sounded the board twice while Acchaiah scored the lone goal for Chandura in a losing cause. Earlier in the day, Chandura set up pre-quarterfinal game with Mandepanda by defeating Mullanda 3-1.

The day also witnessed a cracker of a game between Karineravanda and Pudiyokkada. Karineravanda rallied from behind to draw level 2-2 at regulation time before prevailing in the nervy battle 7-6 in tie-breaker.