Straight shootouts need a rethink

Errol D’Cruz

Remember extra-time?

This protracted struggle in a knockout hockey match is a thing of the past. Seven years ago the new shootout came into being. It caused the demise of extra-time. Partly because it takes longer for the "penalty shuffle" to take place (given eight seconds given to each striker) as opposed to the hitherto penalty stroke contest. And partly because TV broadcasting slots are always under pressure what with a plethora of sporting events all over the globe.