Ranchi Royals registered a solid 2-0 victory over JSW Soorma Hockey Club in the Women’s Hero Hockey India League 2025–26. The match was played at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium in Ranchi on Friday.

Rutuja Dadaso Pisal (30') and Sakshi Rana (54') scored the goals to seal the win for the home side.

Tight Defences Dominate Early Play

Both teams showed strong defensive discipline in the opening quarter. Neither side made costly mistakes or allowed clear scoring chances.

Ranchi Royals enjoyed more possession early on. However, JSW Soorma Hockey Club looked sharp in attack. They entered the shooting circle 10 times in the first 15 minutes, showing clear intent.

In the 12th minute, Soorma earned the first penalty corner of the match. Penny Squibb’s shot was well blocked by the first rusher, keeping the score level.

Goalkeepers Shine as Chances Go Begging

Ranchi Royals created a good opening in the 18th minute. Rutuja Dadaso Pisal fired a shot that was saved by Savita. The rebound fell to Hannah Cotter, but she failed to control the ball and the chance slipped away.

A key moment came in the 25th minute. Ranchi Royals conceded a penalty stroke after a foul inside the circle by Ishika. Penny Squibb stepped up, but Madhuri Kindo produced a superb save to deny Soorma.

Soorma continued to apply pressure and won another penalty corner soon after. Once again, Squibb’s effort was stopped by the first rusher.

Pisal Breaks the Deadlock Before Half-Time

Just before the half-time whistle, Ranchi Royals finally found the breakthrough. Agostina Alonso sent a strong pass into the circle from midfield.

Rutuja Dadaso Pisal (30') reacted quickly. She showed excellent control and skill to guide the ball into the net, giving the Royals a 1-0 lead going into the break.

Royals Stay in Control After the Break

JSW Soorma began the third quarter with urgency. Olivia Shannon made a strong solo run, winning the ball in a dangerous area. She attempted a backhand shot, but Bichu Devi Kharibam made a crucial save.

In the 34th minute, Ranchi Royals came close to doubling their lead. Maria Ortiz beat her marker and hit a low shot, but the ball struck the post.

Late in the quarter, Ranchi Royals earned another penalty corner. However, poor trapping prevented them from making the most of the chance.

Sakshi Rana Seals the Win

Ranchi Royals extended their lead in the 54th minute with a brilliant field goal. Sakshi Rana (54') struck the ball powerfully from a tight angle. Her shot flew into the top right corner of the goal, leaving the goalkeeper helpless.

Soorma earned a final penalty corner in the closing minute of the match. Penny Squibb’s drag-flick was again denied by Bichu Devi Kharibam, who completed the match with a clean sheet.