The Delhi SG Pipers secured a thrilling 3-2 win in a penalty shootout against the Odisha Warriors in a Women's Hero Hockey India League 2025 match. This victory, propelled by Elodie Picard's exceptional goalkeeping, marked their second win of the season. The game ended in a 1-1 draw after regulation time, thanks to goals from Navneet Kaur (28') and Yibbi Jansen (35').

Early Chances

Right from the start, both teams were eager to attack. In the 8th minute, the SG Pipers had their first opportunity when Navneet Kaur made a great run into the circle and took a slapshot across the goal. However, Geeta Yadav failed to connect with the ball. Moments later, the Odisha Warriors responded with a solid chance. Sakshi Rana threaded a perfect pass to Michelle Fillet, but Bichu Devi made a fantastic reflex save. Shortly after, Sakshi set up another chance, but Shileima Chanu was quick to clear the danger.

SG Pipers Break the Deadlock

The SG Pipers focused their attack down the left side, and Charlotte Watson nearly scored after receiving a long pass inside the circle. She attempted a tomahawk shot, but it went over the goal. However, in the 28th minute, Preeti Dubey made an impressive run and earned a penalty stroke after being stick-checked. Navneet Kaur calmly converted the stroke, giving her team a 1-0 lead.

Odisha Warriors Respond Strongly

The Odisha Warriors came out fighting in the second half. In the 34th minute, they earned their first penalty corner. Yibbi Jansen's initial dragflick was saved, but she quickly capitalized on the rebound. With a powerful dragflick, she beat the defenders and goalkeeper, making the score 1-1 in the 35th minute.

Missed Opportunities and Defensive Saves

The SG Pipers almost regained the lead in the 41st minute with a penalty corner, but Navneet’s shot went off target. In response, Jansen nearly scored again after receiving an aerial pass from Claire Colwill, but Bichu Devi made another crucial save to keep the score tied.

Yellow Cards Lead to Tense Finish

As the game progressed, both teams faced challenges. Lily Owsley of the SG Pipers received a yellow card in the 49th minute, leaving her team a player short. Similarly, Odisha Warriors' captain Neha Goyal was also carded, leaving both teams with fewer players. The SG Pipers took advantage of this and earned a penalty corner in the final minute. However, Jocelyn Bartram made a crucial save, sending the match to a penalty shootout.

Shootout Drama Decides the Winner

The penalty shootout saw both goalkeepers in excellent form, with Bartram and Picard making vital saves. It all came down to the 10th attempt, where the Odisha Warriors trailed 2-3. Freeke Moes attempted to score but was put off by Picard, who forced Moes to miss the target. After reviewing the play, the TV umpire upheld the on-field decision, and the SG Pipers sealed the win.