Mumbai Republicans ended the run of two-time winners and defending champions Excellency Academy by a solitary goal to storm into the semi-finals of the 8th Hussain Silver Cup at the Maj. Dhyanchand Hockey Stadium, Nehrunagar-Pimpri on Friday.

Joining Mumbai Republicans in the semi-final were; Mumbai Customs, Income Tax Department, Pune and Sports Authority of Gujarat (SAG) who won tight encounters.

Mumbai Republicans playing the last match of the day did well in the heavy conditions to stave off Excellency Academy after Tejas Chavan (24th) scored the all-important goal. Mumbai Republican also had a chance to double the lead, but Anuj Singh missed converting a penalty-stroke.