Tamil Nadu Dragons Triumph in Thrilling Shootout Against SG Pipers

Exciting Encounter Ends in Draw

In a gripping match on Friday, the Tamil Nadu Dragons secured a vital bonus point by defeating SG Pipers in a shootout after a dramatic 4-4 draw during their Men's Hockey India League clash. Both teams showcased their skills in a high-scoring and thrilling contest.

Goals Galore in Regulation Time

The Dragons saw goals from Amit Rohidas (9'), Tom Craig (18'), Paul Philipp Kaufmann (17'), and Selvaraj Kanagaraj (40'). Meanwhile, the Pipers responded with goals from Tomas Domene (13', 18'), Ky Willott (38'), and Aditya Lalage (59'), as reported by Hockey India.

Match Highlights

1. **Early Dominance by SG Pipers**: The Pipers started strong, controlling possession and creating early chances, including a penalty corner that went unconverted.

2. **Dragons Take the Lead**: Amit Rohidas scored from a penalty corner at the 9-minute mark, giving the Dragons an early advantage.

3. **Equalizer by Pipers**: Tomas Domene equalized for the Pipers in the 13th minute, ending the first quarter at 1-1.

4. **Second Quarter Drama**: The second quarter saw three goals in two minutes, with the Dragons briefly leading before Domene equalized again.

5. **Third Quarter Action**: The Dragons regained the lead through Selvaraj Kanagaraj, but the Pipers kept pressing.

6. **Final Quarter Tension**: With time running out, Aditya Lalage scored to tie the game at 4-4, pushing the match into a shootout.

Shootout Decides the Match

During the shootout, SG Pipers converted four out of five attempts, largely due to fouls committed by the Dragons' goalkeeper, Prince Deep Singh. However, the Tamil Nadu Dragons excelled, scoring on all five of their shots to clinch the bonus point.