JSW Soorma Hockey Club secured a 2-1 victory over Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers in the Men's Hero Hockey India League 2024-25 at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela on Monday. Prabhjot Singh (21') and Maninder Singh (28') scored for Soorma, while Jugraj Singh (39') found the net for the Tigers.

A High-Paced First Quarter

The match began with great intensity, as both teams pushed forward with speed. They made several attacks on each other's goal. As a result, both sides earned penalty corners, but neither could convert in the opening quarter.

Soorma Breaks the Deadlock

In the second quarter, Soorma finally took the lead. Harmanpreet Singh sent a perfect aerial pass to Prabhjot Singh, who controlled the ball and scored with a reverse shot in the 21st minute. This goal lifted the spirits of the Soorma team and the Rourkela crowd. Not long after, Soorma kept the momentum going. They earned a penalty corner, but Jamie Carr, the Bengal Tigers' goalie, made a save. Gurjant picked up the rebound, but Carr saved it again. However, Maninder Singh was quick to react. He deflected the second rebound into the net, giving Soorma a 2-0 lead in the 28th minute.

Bengal Tigers Fight Back

In the third quarter, Bengal Tigers fought back. They won a crucial penalty corner in the 39th minute. Jugraj Singh’s drag flick found the corner of the goal, beating the Soorma goalie, Carr. This goal narrowed the lead to 2-1, but Soorma’s defense stayed solid, denying the Tigers further chances.

Soorma Holds on to Secure Victory

As the final quarter unfolded, both teams continued to push. The Tigers, determined to equalize, launched attacks, but Soorma’s defense held firm. Despite their best efforts, Bengal couldn’t find the back of the net, and Soorma clinched the 2-1 win.

A Crucial Win for Soorma

This victory was important for Soorma, marking their second outright win in the league. With Phase II underway, Soorma must continue winning to remain in contention for the playoffs. The next match between UP Rudras and Team Gonasika will take place at 20:15 Hours.