Shrachi Bengal Tigers Triumph in Nail-Biting Shootout Against SG Pipers

Exciting Encounter in Women's Hockey India League

In a thrilling match of the Women's Hockey India League 2025-26 season, the Shrachi Bengal Tigers emerged victorious against SG Pipers. Captain Valentina Rapaso commended the Pipers for their competitive spirit after the match ended in a dramatic shootout, with both teams tied at 3-3 at the end of regulation time. Lalremsiami's decisive goal in sudden death secured the win for the Tigers. Valentina remarked, "It was an exciting game. We started strong and faced good competition. We will analyze our mistakes for future matches."

SG Pipers Reflect on Valuable Lessons

Following their narrow defeat, SG Pipers' captain Navneet Kaur expressed optimism, stating that the match provided valuable insights for her team. "It was an exciting match from the start. They scored quickly, but we remained committed to our efforts, believing in our capabilities. We have learned a lot from this experience," Navneet shared.

Match Summary: Tense Battle Ends in Draw

The match saw goals from Agustina Gorzelany (6', 18') and Lalremsiami (11') for the Tigers, while SG Pipers responded with goals from Lola Riera (10', 60') and Sunelita Toppo (59').

First Half: Tigers Establish Early Lead

The Tigers began the match aggressively, quickly entering the circle. Despite pressure from the Tigers, SG Pipers managed to respond effectively. The Tigers earned consecutive penalty corners, converting the second through Agustina Gorzelany (6') to take an early lead. The Pipers quickly equalized with a penalty corner goal from Lola Riera (10'). However, Lalremsiami (11') restored the Tigers' lead shortly after, ending the first quarter at 2-1 in favor of the Tigers. Gorzelany (18') scored again in the second quarter from a penalty corner, and despite the Pipers' attempts, the Tigers maintained a 3-1 lead at halftime.

Second Half: Pipers Stage a Comeback

SG Pipers started the second half with determination, launching immediate attacks and earning a penalty corner, but failed to capitalize. They continued to apply pressure throughout the third quarter, yet the Tigers' defense held firm, keeping the score at 3-1. In the fourth quarter, the Pipers dominated possession and finally scored with a penalty corner goal from Sunelita Toppo (59'). In a dramatic finish, Lola Riera (60') converted a penalty stroke in the final seconds, leveling the score at 3-3.

Shootout Drama: Tigers Claim Victory

With the match tied at 3-3, a shootout was necessary to determine the winner. The shootout also ended in a 3-3 draw, leading to sudden death. In the critical moments, SG Pipers missed two attempts, while Lalremsiami successfully converted her chance, securing the bonus point for the Shrachi Bengal Tigers.