HIL GC began their Men’s Hero Hockey India League 2025–26 campaign with a thrilling victory. They edged past SG Pipers 3-2 in a closely fought contest that went down to the final seconds.

Kane Russell emerged as the match-winner. He scored all three goals for HIL GC, including a decisive penalty corner at the death. For SG Pipers, Ky Willott and Dilraj Singh found the net.

Fast Tempo but No Goals Early

SG Pipers started the match brightly. They moved the ball quickly and pressed high in the opening minutes. Their early intent earned them a penalty corner in the fourth minute. However, they failed to convert.

HIL GC took time to settle. Gradually, they began to create chances and ease the pressure. Late in the first quarter, they also won a penalty corner but could not make it count.

The closest chance came in the final moments of the quarter. HIL GC came close to scoring, but Pipers goalkeeper Tomas Santiago made a sharp save at close range. The first quarter ended goalless.

End-to-End Second Quarter

The second quarter opened up the game. Both teams raised the intensity and attacked with purpose. SG Pipers and HIL GC made several circle entries. They created scoring chances and forced the defenders and goalkeepers into action. Despite sustained pressure at both ends, neither side could break through.

As a result, the teams went into the half-time break locked at 0-0.

Pipers Strike First After the Break

SG Pipers returned after half-time with renewed urgency. Their approach paid off early in the third quarter. Ky Willott (31’) showed calmness inside the circle. He controlled the ball, moved towards goal, and lifted a clever finish over HIL GC goalkeeper James Mazarelo to give the Pipers the lead.

Kane Russell Turns the Game Around

HIL GC responded immediately. Drag-flick expert Kane Russell stepped up at a crucial moment. Russell scored twice from penalty corners in quick succession. His strikes in the 35th and 37th minutes completely changed the momentum. HIL GC moved ahead 2-1.

No further goals came in the third quarter. HIL GC carried their one-goal advantage into the final period.

Late Drama in the Final Quarter

SG Pipers pushed hard in the fourth quarter. They made repeated circle entries and searched for an equaliser. However, their finishing let them down for much of the period.

HIL GC looked dangerous on the counter-attack. They tried to extend their lead but were denied several times by excellent saves from Tomas Santiago.

With less than five minutes left, the Pipers finally broke through. Dilraj Singh (56’) converted a penalty corner to level the score at 2-2.

Russell Seals Win in Dying Seconds

The drama was not over. In the dying seconds of the match, HIL GC earned another penalty corner. Kane Russell (60’) stepped up once again. He calmly converted the chance to complete his hattrick and seal a stunning 3-2 victory for HIL GC in their opening match of the season.