The Tamil Nadu Dragons extended their winning streak by beating the Shrachi Bengal Tigers in the Hero Hockey India League 2024-25. The match took place at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium on Friday. Karthi Selvam (16’) and Uttam Singh (37’) scored the key goals.

Dragons Take the Lead After a Slow Start

At first, both teams played cautiously, with no clear chances in the opening 10 minutes. However, the Dragons soon shifted gears and began pressing forward. In the final minute of the first quarter, they almost scored, but Jamie Carr made a sharp save to stop Blake Govers. Nevertheless, the Dragons didn’t have to wait long to take the lead. Early in the second quarter, Uttam Singh delivered a perfect aerial pass to Karthi Selvam. Positioned perfectly, Karthi tapped the ball into the net, scoring his second goal of the season.

Bengal Tigers Push for an Equalizer

In response, the Bengal Tigers pushed forward, looking for an equalizer. Jugraj Singh’s powerful drag flick hit the crossbar after David Harte’s save. Soon after, Harte also stopped strikes from Affan Yousuf and Sean Findlay. Just before halftime, Sebastien Dockier had a chance from a tight angle. Yet, Harte came off his line and made a crucial block, keeping the Dragons ahead.

Tigers Level the Score

As the second half began, the Tigers continued their attacks. In the 35th minute, they earned a penalty corner. Although Harte blocked Sam Lane’s attempt, Rupinder Pal Singh converted a penalty stroke moments later, leveling the score. A minute later, Tim Cross almost gave the Tigers the lead, but his shot bounced off the woodwork. However, the Dragons quickly regained the lead in the 37th minute. A long pass found Mortiz Ludwig, who set up Uttam Singh for a calm finish, making it 2-1.

Missed Chances and Solid Defense

The Tigers wasted three penalty corners in the 39th minute. Then, they had another chance with a penalty stroke in the 44th minute, but Rupinder Pal Singh missed. Even though Rupinder had one more opportunity in the 52nd minute, his drag flick didn’t trouble the goalkeeper. Meanwhile, the Dragons faced additional pressure as Mortiz Ludwig and Chandan Yadav received yellow cards, reducing them to 10 men. Despite this setback, the Dragons defended resolutely and held on to secure the victory.

Dragons Climb to the Top

With this win, the Tamil Nadu Dragons extended their winning run and moved to the top of the Hero Hockey India League standings, overtaking the Bengal Tigers.