HIL: Jackson's brace help Ranchi Rays beat Waveriders 2-1

Skipper Ashley Jackson led from the front with twin strikes to hand defending champions Ranchi Rays a 2-1 win over Delhi Waveriders and register their second victory in the fourth edition of the Hockey India League, in Ranchi on Tuesday.

Jackson converted two penalty corners in the 29th and 31st minutes after the Waveriders took the lead through Rupinder Pal Singh, who too scored from a set peiece in the 27th minute.

Ranchi Rays, co-owned by India limited overs cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, had earlier defeated Uttar Pradesh Wizards 4-2 in their previous match.

By virtue of this win Ranchi Rays have moved a place to the fourth position in the standings with 11 points from three games.

Delhi Waveriders are a rung above Ranchi Rays in the third spot with same number of points but have a superior goal difference.

All the top four teams have 11 points each from three games apiece but Kalinga Lancers and Jaypee Punjab Warriors are at the top of the table because of superior goal difference.

After a break day on Wednesday, Ranchi Rays will next host league leaders Kalinga Lancers on Thursday while the Waveriders will travel to Mumbai to play Dabang Mumbai on Friday.