Ranchi Royals Triumph Over Soorma Hockey Club in Women's HIL Match

In a competitive match at the Women's Hockey India League, Ranchi Royals secured a 2-0 victory against Soorma Hockey Club. Rutuja Dadaso Pisal opened the scoring, followed by a powerful strike from Sakshi Rana. The match featured strong defensive plays and missed opportunities, showcasing the skills of both teams. Ranchi's goalkeeper, Bichu Devi Kharibam, played a crucial role in maintaining a clean sheet. Read on for a detailed breakdown of the match's key moments and highlights.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 3, 2026, 00:17 IST

Ranchi Royals Secure 2-0 Victory

In a thrilling encounter at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium, Ranchi Royals emerged victorious against Soorma Hockey Club with a score of 2-0 during the Women's Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 on Friday. The goals were scored by Rutuja Dadaso Pisal in the 30th minute and Sakshi Rana in the 54th minute.

Defensive Standoff in the First Quarter

The initial quarter saw both teams focusing on defense, resulting in minimal errors and few scoring opportunities. Ranchi Royals maintained a slight edge in possession, while Soorma Hockey Club demonstrated aggressive play, making 10 circle penetrations within the first 15 minutes. The first penalty corner of the match was awarded to Soorma in the 12th minute, but Ranchi's first rusher effectively blocked Penny Squibb's attempt.

Royals Take the Lead Before Halftime

Rutuja Dadaso Pisal had a chance to score in the 18th minute, but her shot was saved by Savita, and the rebound was mishandled by Hannah Cotter. A penalty stroke was awarded to Soorma in the 25th minute after a foul by Ranchi's Ishika, but Madhuri Kindo made a spectacular save against Penny Squibb. Just before halftime, Ranchi Royals broke the deadlock when Agostina Alonso delivered a precise pass into the circle, allowing Rutuja to skillfully deflect the ball into the net.

Intense Action in the Second Half

The third quarter began with Olivia Shannon from Soorma showcasing her skills, winning the ball and attempting a back-handed shot, which was thwarted by Ranchi's Bichu Devi Kharibam. Maria Ortiz nearly extended the Royals' lead in the 34th minute with a low shot that hit the post. Ranchi had another chance with a penalty corner just before the end of the quarter, but they failed to capitalize on it.

Rana's Goal Secures the Win

In the 54th minute, Sakshi Rana scored a stunning field goal from a tight angle, placing the ball into the top right corner of the net, further solidifying Ranchi's lead. In the final moments, Soorma earned a crucial penalty corner, but Bichu Devi Kharibam denied Penny Squibb's dragflick, ensuring a clean sheet for the Ranchi Royals.