Shrachi Bengal Tigers once again showed calm under pressure as they defeated SG Pipers 0-0 (7-6 SO) in a tense Women’s Hero Hockey India League 2025–26 match. The game stayed goalless in regulation time and went to a sudden-death shootout, where the Tigers prevailed. Notably, this match followed the exact pattern of their earlier meeting, with the Tigers again emerging winners to seal a vital bonus point and confirm a spot in the final.
Meanwhile, the result did not affect SG Pipers’ standing. The match was a dead rubber for them, as they had already secured qualification for the Women’s Hero HIL 2025–26 final due to their strong lead at the top of the points table.
Fast Start but No Early Breakthrough
The first quarter saw open and attacking hockey from both sides. The Tigers earned a penalty corner within the first three minutes but failed to convert it. Soon after, SG Pipers controlled possession and moved the ball quickly. They entered the circle several times and tested the Tigers’ defence.
However, both teams defended well. Despite chances at both ends, neither side could score, and the opening quarter ended 0-0.
Solanki Shines as Tigers Press Hard
In the second quarter, Shrachi Bengal Tigers increased the pressure. They launched repeated attacks and won another penalty corner. Still, SG Pipers goalkeeper Bansari Solanki stood tall. She made several sharp saves to deny the Tigers.
Although the Tigers spent long periods inside the Pipers’ circle, they could not find the net. As a result, the score remained 0-0 at half-time.
End-to-End Battle Continues After the Break
After the restart, the Tigers pressed aggressively. Vandana Katariya created a big chance when she drove into the circle and fired a powerful shot from close range. Once again, Bansari Solanki produced a fine save.
The Tigers kept probing with sustained attacks. At the same time, SG Pipers tried to respond with a few attacking moves of their own. Still, neither team managed to break the deadlock, and the third quarter ended scoreless.
Late Drama but No Goal in Regulation Time
Early in the final quarter, Shrachi Bengal Tigers came close again. Captain Lalremsiami found herself one-on-one with the goalkeeper, but Solanki delivered another crucial save to keep the scores level.
The Tigers continued to dominate possession and made repeated circle entries. However, SG Pipers held firm at the back. In the final minutes, the Pipers pushed forward in search of a winner but failed to create a clear chance.
With just eight seconds left, the Tigers earned a late penalty corner. They had one last chance to win the match in normal time but could not convert. Consequently, the game ended 0-0 and moved to a shootout.
Sudden-Death Shootout Decides the Winner
In the shootout, Purnima Yadav and Noor de Baat scored for Shrachi Bengal Tigers. For SG Pipers, Juana Castellaro and Kaitlin Nobbs found the target. The scores stayed level at 2-2, forcing the contest into sudden death.
Under pressure, the Tigers stayed composed. They converted all five of their attempts, while SG Pipers managed four out of five. This narrow shootout win earned the Tigers a crucial bonus point.
Importantly, the victory confirmed Shrachi Bengal Tigers’ place in the Women’s Hero HIL 2025–26 final. They will face SG Pipers once again in the title clash on 10 January.