LUCKNOW, Oct. 22 -- Hosts and former runners-up Uttar Pradesh Hockey delivered a composed and clinical performance to defeat Hockey Punjab 3-1 to win bronze medal, with Akash Pal's early brace setting the tone for a disciplined victory in the Senior National Men's Hockey Championship at Jhansi on Wednesday. Haryana defeated Madhya Pradesh 2-1 to win the title. The match showcased Uttar Pradesh's ability to strike early, absorb pressure, and close out the contest with authority. Uttar Pradesh drew first blood in the 15th minute when Akash Pal found the net with a well-taken field goal, putting his side ahead 1-0. Pal struck again in the 21st minute, once again scoring from open play to extend the lead to 2-0. His quick double gave Uttar Pradesh control of the match and forced Hockey Punjab onto the back foot. Hockey Punjab responded in the 41st minute through Pawandeep Singh, whose field goal reduced the deficit to 2-1 and briefly lifted his team's momentum. However, Uttar Pradesh remained calm under pressure and restored their two-goal cushion in the 58th minute. Chandan Yadav converted from a penalty corner, making it 3-1 and effectively sealing the result. In the final, Mohammad Zaid Khan gave Madhya Pradesh the lead with a field goal in the 14th minute but Haryana equalised in the second quarter when Navraj Singh scored a penalty corner in the 21st. The match stayed level until the 50th minute, when Joginder scored the winner from another penalty corner....