Synopsis
Soorma Hockey Club emerged victorious against Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers with a score of 4-2 in the last Pool stage match of the Women’s Hockey India League 2024-25. The win guarantees Soorma a place in the Final against Odisha Warriors on January 26.Key Takeaways
- Charlotte Englebert scored a hattrick.
- Soorma will face Odisha Warriors in the Final.
- Game held at Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium.
- Hina Bano also contributed a goal for Soorma.
- Tigers fought back but couldn't secure a win.
Ranchi, Jan 24 (NationPress) In the final match of the Pool stage of the Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25, Soorma Hockey Club triumphed over Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers with a score of 4-2 at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium on Friday. This significant win has secured a place for Soorma Hockey Club in the Final against Odisha Warriors on 26 January.
Charlotte Englebert was the star of the match, scoring a remarkable hattrick with goals at the 1st, 17th, and 47th minutes, while Hina Bano contributed with a goal in the 9th minute. The last quarter saw the Tigers' captain Vandana Katariya (48’) and Shilpi Dabas (58’) score, but it was not enough to alter the match outcome. Englebert's brilliance began right from the opening whistle as she capitalized on a loose pass, firing a shot past goalkeeper Grace O’Hanlon.
Soorma maintained pressure on the field, and midway through the first quarter, Sharmila Devi assisted Hina Bano, who skillfully maneuvered past defenders to extend Soorma's lead. Their high press created several scoring chances, yet they could not convert another opportunity before the quarter ended. The Tigers faced challenges as the second quarter commenced, with Englebert scoring another goal from the top of the circle, making it 3-0 for Soorma.
The Tigers attempted to penetrate Soorma's defense with Rosin Upton forcing a save from Savita. However, Soorma dominated possession and opportunities, with Maria Verschoor effectively controlling the midfield.
In the third quarter, the Tigers showed improved confidence, earning a penalty corner but failing to take a shot on goal. They aimed for a comeback, with Kathryn Mullan missing a close chance. The Tigers intensified their efforts later in the quarter, but Natalia Salvador made two crucial saves to preserve Soorma's clean sheet.
As the final quarter commenced, Sonam earned a penalty corner for Soorma, leading to a penalty stroke where Englebert netted her hattrick with a low flick to the left corner.
In response, the Tigers launched a counterattack through Lalremsiami, whose assist found Katariya, allowing her to score. The match became frantic as the Tigers sought a second goal and earned their first penalty corner with two minutes remaining.
Shilpi Dabas scored from the penalty corner to narrow the gap, but Soorma's defense held strong, securing their place in the Final.
