JSW Soorma Hockey Club earned their first victory in the Women’s Hero Hockey India League 2025–26 on Monday. They defeated Ranchi Royals 2-1 at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium.

Penny Squibb scored in the opening minute for Soorma. Olivia Shannon added the winning goal later in the match. Agostina Alonso scored the lone goal for Ranchi Royals.

Fast Start Gives Soorma Early Edge

Soorma began the match at high speed. They won two penalty corners within the first minute. They made the second chance count.

Drag-flick specialist Penny Squibb struck in the 1st minute to give Soorma an early lead. The Australian stayed influential at both ends of the field. In the fourth minute, she made a crucial goal-line clearance to protect the advantage.

Ranchi Royals tried to respond. However, Soorma’s defence stayed tight. The hosts managed only two circle entries in the opening quarter.

Royals Apply Pressure Before Half-Time

Ranchi Royals showed more intent in the second quarter. They pushed Soorma deep into their own half and controlled long spells of play.

The Royals recorded 11 circle entries and earned three penalty corners in the second quarter. Still, they failed to convert their chances. Soorma’s defence remained organised and disciplined.

As a result, Soorma went into half-time with a narrow 1-0 lead.

Alonso Restores Parity After the Break

Ranchi Royals finally broke through after the restart. Hannah Cotter made a strong run through the Soorma defence and set up Agostina Alonso.

Alonso struck in the 35th minute and beat the goalkeeper to level the score at 1-1.

Shannon Converts Penalty Stroke

Soorma responded quickly. Just four minutes later, they earned a penalty stroke. Olivia Shannon stepped up and made no mistake in the 39th minute. Her goal put Soorma back in front at 2-1.

Strong Defence Seals the Win

Ranchi Royals went all out in the final quarter. The home crowd rallied behind them as they chased the equaliser.

The Royals dominated possession and registered 11 circle entries in the last 15 minutes. They pinned Soorma inside their own half and attacked relentlessly.

However, Soorma stayed calm. They defended in a compact low block and denied clear chances. Their discipline paid off as they held on for a 2-1 win. This victory marked Soorma’s first win of the season.

Pipers Confirm Final Spot

The result had wider implications in the league. With Soorma defeating Ranchi Royals, SG Pipers officially confirmed their place in the final.