NEW DELHI, NOV 25: Edward Aranha made the vital difference, knocking in two characteristic goals to lead Air India to a 3-2 victory over Army XI in a rain-marred semi-final of the Nehru hockey tournament at the National Stadium here today.

The speedy Aranha, who has a penchant for moving inside the opponent's circle -- to make the most of the no-off-side rule -- showcased his agility and terrific sense of anticipation today, with two superb goals. The first was a beauty, which saw the lanky Air India forward dive full length to connect a sizzling hit from near the half line, from an acute angle. And his second sealed the issue in a racy match played hard on the soaked turf.

The first tie was held up for an hour, after rain had made the turf unplayable. Later, rain forced the second semi-final between Indian Airlines and Border Security Force (BSF) to be stopped after 39 minutes of play due to bad light, with the teams locked goal-less. The remaining part of the match will be played tomorrow, according to International Hockey Federation (FIH) rules, the organisers informed.

The second semi-final generated controversy due to inept umpiring by Narinder Singh. A first session goal by Altaf-ur-Rehman was disallowed by Narinder, after protests from BSF players. Narinder reversed his decision to award a penalty corner in favour of Airlines. Narinder later explained that the Airlines forward had carried it. Given this premise, Narender should have awarded a 16-yard hit to BSF, rather than award a penalty corner to Airlines.

While Air India came back an inspired side after the rain interruption, Army, even though combining well upfront, succumbed to their inability to convert penalty corners -- the Armymen muffed up nine in all, bringing to naught the hard work of forwards Deven Ravi and Kamal Horo.

Army started well taking the lead through Ajay Lakra but Gagan Ajit Singh spoiled their day.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.