Shrachi Bengal Tigers Triumph in Thrilling Shootout Against SG Pipers
Dramatic Encounter in Women's Hockey India League
Ranchi (Jharkhand) [India], January 1: In a nail-biting match of the Women’s Hockey India League 2025-26, Shrachi Bengal Tigers showcased their resilience by defeating SG Pipers in a shootout after the teams ended regulation time tied at 3-3. Lalremsiami's decisive goal in sudden death clinched the bonus point for the Tigers following an exhilarating match, according to a release.
Agustina Gorzelany scored twice (6', 18') and Lalremsiami added another (11') for the Tigers, while SG Pipers saw goals from Lola Riera (10', 60') and Sunelita Toppo (59').
The Tigers initiated the match with aggressive play, quickly entering the circle, but SG Pipers countered effectively, testing the Tigers' defense with quick passes. Shrachi Bengal Tigers soon earned consecutive penalty corners, converting the second one through Agustina Gorzelany (6') to take an early lead. The Pipers responded swiftly, earning a penalty corner that Lola Riera (10') converted to equalize.
However, the Tigers regained the lead shortly after, with Lalremsiami (11') deftly deflecting a shot to make it 2-1 by the end of the first quarter. The Tigers extended their advantage in the second quarter when Gorzelany (18') scored again from a penalty corner. Despite relentless pressure from SG Pipers, Tigers' goalkeeper Jennifer Rizzo made several crucial saves, maintaining a 3-1 lead at halftime, as per a release.
SG Pipers came out strong in the second half, launching immediate attacks and earning a penalty corner early on, but failed to capitalize. They continued to apply pressure, making repeated entries into the circle, yet the Tigers' defense held firm, resulting in a goalless third quarter with the Tigers still ahead 3-1.
The fourth quarter saw SG Pipers dominate possession and control the game's pace. Their efforts finally bore fruit with just over two minutes left when they earned a penalty corner. Captain Navneet Kaur took a powerful shot that was skillfully deflected by Sunelita Toppo (59'), narrowing the gap to one goal.
The Pipers' late-game push continued as they earned a penalty stroke in the final seconds, which Lola Riera (60') calmly converted, completing an impressive comeback. With the score tied at 3-3 at the end of regulation, the match proceeded to a shootout to determine the winner.
The shootout also ended in a 3-3 draw, with both teams successfully converting three attempts, leading to sudden death. In the critical moments, SG Pipers missed two chances, while Lalremsiami kept her composure to score, securing the bonus point for Shrachi Bengal Tigers.