JSW Soorma Hockey Club finally registered their first victory in the Men's Hero Hockey India League 2025-26 after defeating HIL GC 3-1 at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi on Thursday. The win came as a big boost for Soorma after earlier setbacks in the tournament.

Captain Harmanpreet Singh led from the front and scored twice, finding the net in the 15th and 38th minutes. Gurjant Singh added another goal in the 27th minute to put Soorma firmly in control of the match. For HIL GC, Kane Russell scored the only goal. With that strike, Russell equalled Tom Boon’s tally of 10 goals to remain joint top scorer in the league. Despite the defeat, HIL GC stayed within the top two positions on the points table.

Strong Start Sets the Tone

Soorma showed their intent right from the opening quarter. With just 33 seconds remaining before the first hooter, they earned a penalty corner. Having one of the world’s best drag-flickers in Harmanpreet Singh, the team made full use of the opportunity. The captain converted the penalty corner calmly to give Soorma an early 1-0 lead.

HIL GC tried to respond in the second quarter. Captain Hardik Singh led a few sharp attacking moves and created pressure, but the attempts did not result in a goal. Soorma, on the other hand, continued to look dangerous.

Gurjant’s Classy Goal Puts Pressure On GC

In the 27th minute, Gurjant Singh produced a moment of brilliance. He entered the circle from the left side, showed excellent speed and control, and took a powerful shot. Using his trademark finish, he beat goalkeeper James Mazarelo with ease to double Soorma’s lead.

The 2-0 scoreline clearly unsettled HIL GC. Their main goal threat, Kane Russell, got involved in a tough tackle and was shown a green card in the 30th minute. This left his team with only 10 players at the start of the third quarter.

Harmanpreet Strikes Again After the Break

Playing with a numerical advantage, Soorma kept pressing. Their pressure paid off in the 38th minute when they earned another penalty corner. Harmanpreet once again stepped up and executed it perfectly to make it 3-0.

HIL GC did manage to pull one goal back in the 44th minute. They earned a penalty corner, and Kane Russell converted it to reduce the deficit. However, the goal came too late to change the course of the match.

Soorma Control the Final Stages

In the final quarter, both teams created a few chances. However, Soorma remained disciplined in defence and protected their lead comfortably. The match statistics reflected their dominance. Soorma recorded 27 circle penetrations and took seven shots on goal. In comparison, HIL GC managed 19 circle entries and four shots on target.

Gurjant Singh Reflects On Crucial Win

Gurjant Singh, who was named Player of the Match, said the team knew the importance of this fixture. He said, "Having lost previous games and one shoot-out win, we didn't have a second chance in today's game. It was a must-win game and a total team effort. We want to carry on this momentum. We will play the next game similarly. All matches from here on is a must-win for us."

The victory gives Soorma renewed confidence as they look to build momentum in the remainder of the league.