A spirited show by Pakistani forward Rehan Butt helped Bangalore Lions register an impressive 6-1 win over Chennai Veerans in the Premier Hockey League in Chennai on Wednesday night.
Butt netted three goals, including two in the last quarter, in last league match of the first phase of the championship at the Mayor Radhakrishnan stadium.
Bangalore Lions led 3-0 at half-time through goals from Len Aiyappa, in the fourth minute, Amar Aiyamma, in the 23rd minute, and Butt, 33rd minute.
Crossing over, the Bangalore team continued to have the edge and attacked the rival circle often but could increase their lead only in the 45th minute with Indian international Tushar Khandekar giving a finishing touch to a combined move.
In the 52nd minute, Chennai Veerans managed to reduce the margin as Raghunath succeeded in converting their fourth penalty-corner.
Chennai Veerans looked a jaded lot but the Bangalore team continued to attack at will and seven minutes later Butt's solo effort paid off (5-1) and then again slotted the sixth goal in the 64th minute to settle the issue.
Bangalore Lions now lead with eight points amongst the seven teams in the fray, with Share-Jalandar being relegated to second position with seven points.
After a five-day break, the second phase of the tournament commences on January 16.