The Hockey Players Welfare Unity (HPWU) surrendered a lead to suffer a 2-1 defeat to title aspirants Bangladesh Army in Paragon Victory Day Hockey competition at the Maulana Bhasani Hockey Stadium today.

National defender Amirul Islam gave HPWU the lead from a penalty stroke in the 21st minute before Army bounced back to level the margin, with Abdul Malek scoring from open play in the 32nd minute.

Though both teams fought neck and neck in the third quarter, Army established their control in the fourth and final quarter, thanks to have better fitness and endurance than their opposition, who just got together to play in a short notice.

Army scored the winning goal four minutes from time when Ahsan Habib converted a penalty corner.

Despite the defeat in their last group match, HPWU, a team comprising some current and former national players, have the chance of reaching the semifinal as they have beaten Bangladesh Air Force 4-3 in their first match while Army and Air Force will square off in the last match.

In the day's other match, BKSP thrashed Bangladesh Police 5-0 in their last group match. Police will play their last match against favourites Bangladesh Navy, who beat BKSP 8-2 in their opening match.