HIL GC Triumphs Over Shrachi Bengal Tigers in Thrilling 6-3 Encounter

HIL GC Claims Victory in High-Scoring Match

In an exciting clash at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai, HIL GC emerged victorious against Shrachi Bengal Tigers with a score of 6-3 during the Men's Hockey India League 2025-26 on Wednesday. The goals for HIL GC were scored by Kane Russell (19', 36', 44'), Sam Ward (19'), Sudeep Chirmako (38'), and James Albery (59'). For the Tigers, captain Jugraj Singh (12'), Tom Grambusch (40'), and Christopher Ruhr (40') found the back of the net.

Tigers Start Strong

The match kicked off with both teams battling fiercely in the midfield. The first significant chance came in the 11th minute when Sudeep Chirmako delivered a precise pass to Ajeet Yadav, whose shot hit the post. Shortly after, Shrachi Bengal Tigers earned four consecutive penalty corners, and despite HIL GC's efforts to defend, they conceded a penalty stroke. Jugraj Singh converted this opportunity in the 12th minute, sending HIL GC's goalkeeper, James Mazarelo, the wrong way.

HIL GC Takes Control in the Second Quarter

The second quarter saw a shift in momentum as HIL GC scored two quick goals in the 19th minute. Kane Russell initiated a long pass into the circle, which Sam Ward deftly redirected into the goal to level the score. Moments later, HIL GC was awarded a penalty corner, which Kane Russell converted with a powerful drag-flick, putting them ahead. Despite a strong effort from the Tigers, including a shot that hit the crossbar, they ended the half trailing by one goal.

Third Quarter Goal Bonanza

Five minutes into the third quarter, HIL GC secured another penalty corner, and Kane Russell capitalized, extending his team's lead. Sudeep Chirmako then scored a field goal in the 38th minute, pushing the advantage to three goals. However, the Tigers responded quickly, with Tom Grambusch converting a penalty corner and Christopher Ruhr scoring from a rebound, narrowing the gap to one goal. Russell completed his hat-trick in the 44th minute with another penalty corner goal.

Final Minutes Seal the Win for HIL GC

In the 49th minute, the Tigers had a chance to equalize with a penalty corner, but Jugraj Singh's attempt was thwarted by a strong save from Mazarelo. With time running out, Shrachi Bengal Tigers replaced their goalkeeper with an outfield player to increase their attacking options. Despite earning two late penalty corners, they failed to score. In the 59th minute, James Albery showcased his skills, maneuvering past the Tigers' defense to score into an empty net, securing a 6-3 victory for HIL GC.