HIL GC Triumphs Over Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons in Thrilling Hockey Match

In a gripping match at the Men's Hockey India League, HIL GC triumphed over Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons with a score of 4-2. Kane Russell's hat-trick and Sam Ward's goal propelled HIL GC to the top of the standings. Despite a strong start from the Dragons, they struggled to convert their chances, highlighting HIL GC's robust defense. This match marks the Dragons' first loss of the season, while HIL GC secures a crucial victory. Read on for a detailed breakdown of the match's key moments and player performances.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 13, 2026, 01:57 IST

HIL GC Secures Victory in Men's Hockey India League

Ranchi (Jharkhand) [India], January 12: In an exciting encounter at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium, HIL GC emerged victorious against Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons with a score of 4-2 in the Men's Hockey India League 2025-26.

Kane Russell was the star of the match, netting three goals (14', 33', 47'), while Sam Ward contributed another goal (23'). For the Dragons, Blake Govers (32') and Uttam Singh (56') found the back of the net, according to a statement from HIL.

The Dragons began the match with a strong offensive push, highlighted by Tom Craig's impressive back-handed shot in the second minute, which was expertly saved by HIL GC's goalkeeper, James Mazarelo. However, HIL GC quickly took control of the game, with Prasant Barla coming close to scoring in the 6th minute, only to be thwarted by David Harte, the Dragons' goalkeeper.

In the 12th minute, HIL GC earned consecutive penalty corners, but attempts by Kane Russell and Manmeet Singh failed to convert. Just two minutes later, Russell capitalized on another penalty corner, scoring his seventh goal of the season to put HIL GC ahead (14').

Maintaining their aggressive play, HIL GC continued to pressure the Dragons. Lalit Kumar Upadhyay showcased his dribbling skills, setting up Sam Ward (23') for a goal that extended their lead.

The second half saw the Dragons respond strongly, with Blake Govers converting a penalty corner to score their first goal (32'). However, HIL GC quickly retaliated, with Russell scoring again just a minute later (33') after winning three consecutive penalty corners.

Despite the Dragons' efforts, including a remarkable 3D skill display by Thomas Sorsby in the 39th minute, they struggled to find the net, with Mazarelo making crucial saves.

In the final quarter, Russell completed his hat-trick with a powerful dragflick from a penalty corner (47'), putting HIL GC further ahead. The Dragons managed to reduce the deficit with a goal from Uttam Singh (56') after a well-placed cross from Mohammed Raheel.

Despite making 30 circle penetrations, the Dragons could only score twice, underscoring the solid defensive performance by HIL GC. This match marked the Dragons' first defeat of the season, while HIL GC climbed to the top of the standings with 10 points.