Hyderabad Toofans secured their first outright victory in the
Hero Hockey India League 2024-25 with a 3-0 win over UP Rudras. Goals from Zachary Wallace, Rajinder Singh, and Shilanand Lakra helped Toofans rise to fifth place on the points table.
Strong Start by Hyderabad Toofans
Hyderabad made their intentions clear from the beginning. They took a 2-0 lead in the first quarter. First, Zachary Wallace scored a brilliant back-handed goal in the 6th minute. Then, in the 14th minute, Nilakanta Sharma set up Rajinder Singh for a splendid field goal.
Rudras’ Response Falls Short
UP Rudras tried to fight back in the second quarter. They earned a penalty corner, and Hardik Singh made a perfect injection for Kane Russell. However, Toofans’ goalkeeper, Dominic Dixon, was up to the challenge, saving the shot. Dixon also stopped a follow-up shot from Hardik, keeping the score at 2-0. Toofans had a penalty corner soon after but failed to extend their lead.
Toofans Extend Lead with Lakra’s Goal
The third quarter saw Toofans extend their lead to 3-0. In the 32nd minute, Toofans intercepted the ball when Hardik lost possession. Shilanand Lakra scored a goal by sending the ball through Rudras’ goalkeeper Prashant Kumar Chauhan’s legs, putting more pressure on the Rudras.
Rudras’ Final Push Fails
In the 49th minute, Rudras earned another penalty corner, thanks to Floris Wortelboer. Once again, Hardik’s injection was perfect, but Dixon saved Kane Russell’s shot. Toofans continued their strong defensive play, with captain Sumit clearing the ball from two consecutive penalty corners. In the final minutes, Rudras had another chance with a penalty corner, but Sam Ward’s shot went wide. With just 46 seconds remaining, Toofans earned a penalty corner. However, Gonzalo Peillat’s flick was saved by Rudras’ goalkeeper James Mazarelo, and they held onto their 3-0 lead.
Hyderabad Toofans' 3-0 victory showcased their balanced play—strong attacking moves and solid defense. Despite Rudras’ efforts, Toofans kept their composure and secured their first win in the tournament.
