Thrilling Day 3 at Archery Premier League: Yodhas Hand Chero Archers Their First Loss

Exciting Matches on Day Three

The excitement of the Archery Premier League reached new heights on the third day of its second season, as Prithviraaj Yodhas dealt Chero Archers their first defeat in a match that required several 'Sudden Death' rounds to determine the victor on Saturday.

In the opening match of the day, Mighty Marathas secured their first victory of the season by defeating Chola Chiefs with a score of 6-0.

Defending champions Rajputana Royals faced a tough challenge, suffering consecutive losses against Kakatiya Knights, who enjoyed strong support from the local audience at People’s Plaza on Necklace Road.

Yodhas End Archers' Winning Streak

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the match between Yodhas and Archers, where Yodhas managed to tie the game at 4-4 in regulation time by winning the fourth set against the formidable Archers.

During the first tiebreaker, all eight archers from both teams missed the inner yellow ring, leading to a Sudden Death scenario. In this tense moment, Mexican archer Matias Grande clinched victory for Yodhas with a precise hit in the third Sudden Death round, while Prithika Pradeep was unable to replicate the success for her team.

Kumkum Mohod, making her debut after a successful Asian Games, delivered impressive shots but could not secure a win for Chero. Grande expressed his joy, stating, 'This is a very small target. A little bit of luck, it was a good shot. We are happy with the win. Honestly, it is a very special feeling, but it is a team win.'

Mighty Marathas Claim Their First Victory

Earlier in the day, Mighty Marathas, after two initial losses, showcased their skills by defeating Chola Chiefs without dropping a single set. Led by Mike Schloesser and supported by Dhiraj Bommadevara, they achieved a decisive 6-0 victory, while the Chiefs faced their second defeat in three matches.

Schloesser, known as 'Mr. Perfect', delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 10s with all six arrows. The Chiefs attempted to maintain their strategy from Day 2, but Chikitha Taniparthi's two 9s hindered their ability to apply scoreboard pressure.

Despite a couple of 8s from the Marathas' recurve archers, their compound archers ensured a strong start, winning the first set 74-73. In the second set, Bommadevara's impressive shot under time pressure helped the Marathas take a 4-0 lead, while the Chiefs brought in Alejandra Usquiano to turn the tide.

Knights Triumph Over Defending Champions

In the final match, Kakatiya Knights, led by Asian Games bronze medallist Neeraj Chauhan, delivered a stellar performance, securing a 6-2 victory over Rajputana Royals. Chauhan's clutch X-ring 10s and local star Jyothi Surekha Vennam's exceptional shooting were pivotal.

Although Tokyo Olympic champion Mete Gazoz helped the Royals win the first set, it was the Knights who rallied back to claim victory, narrowly missing a Perfect 80 in the fourth set.

Upcoming Matches and Broadcast Information

Looking ahead to Sunday, Chero Archers aim to bounce back against local team Kakatiya Knights, while Chola Chiefs will seek redemption against Prithviraaj Yodhas. The final match will feature the revitalized Mighty Marathas facing off against the defending champions, Rajputana Royals.

The Archery Premier League Season 2 is being broadcast on various platforms, including Sony LIV, Doordarshan, the Archery Association of India YouTube channel, and Archery+. Tickets can be purchased through District by Zomato.

Scores from Day 3 (October 10)

Match 1: Mighty Marathas 6-0 Chola Chiefs

Match 2: Prithviraaj Yodhas 4-4 (1-0 Sudden Death) Chero Archers

Match 3: Kakatiya Knights 6-2 Rajputana Royals

Best Archers of the Day (Rs 1 lakh reward)

Recurve male: Neeraj Chauhan

Recurve female: Ankita Bhakat

Compound male: Rajat Chauhan

Compound female: Jyothi Surekha Vennam.