The Odisha Warriors won the inaugural Women’s Hero Hockey India League 2024-25. They defeated JSW Soorma Hockey Club 2-1 in a thrilling final at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi. Rutuja Dadaso Pisal scored both goals for the Warriors. Her second-half strike sealed the win.
Intense Start to the Match
From the outset, the match was filled with high intensity. Freeke Moes from the Warriors made the first circle entry, while Soorma focused on defense and gradually rotated possession to control the game. However, despite several attempts from both teams, no significant shots were taken during the first quarter, and the score remained 0-0.Warriors Break the Deadlock
In the second quarter, both teams battled fiercely in midfield. Suddenly, the Warriors broke the deadlock. Victoria Sauze attempted a pass into the circle, but it was deflected high. Rutuja reacted quickly and lofted the ball over Soorma’s goalkeeper, Savita, into the net. This gave the Warriors a 1-0 lead. However, Soorma refused to give up. Just before the quarter ended, they earned a penalty corner. Penny Squibb converted it, sending the ball past Warriors’ keeper Jocelyn Bartram and leveling the score at 1-1.
