Ranchi Royals Triumph Over HIL GC in Nail-Biting Penalty Shootout
Exciting Match Ends in Draw, Royals Win in Shootout
In a thrilling encounter at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Monday, Ranchi Royals secured a dramatic victory against HIL GC, winning 4-1 in a penalty shootout after a 4-4 draw in regulation time during the Men's Hero Hockey India League (HIL).
The goals for Ranchi Royals were scored by Araijeet Singh Hundal (19', 32'), Sam Lane (42'), and Tom Boon (57'). HIL GC's Lalit Kumar Upadhyay (25', 53'), Kane Russell (36'), and Sudeep Chirmako (39') found the net for their team. In the shootout, the Royals' Vishnukant Singh, Sam Lane, Maxime van Oost, and Tom Boon all converted their attempts successfully, as reported by Hockey India.
Intense Back-and-Forth Action
Ranchi Royals kicked off the match with strong momentum, making quick circle entries right from the first minute. Mandeep Singh had a chance on goal, but HIL GC's James Mazarelo made a crucial save to keep the score level. HIL GC managed to hold possession for a while, but the Royals' solid defense prevented any clear scoring opportunities.
The first penalty corner of the match came for HIL GC in the 18th minute, but Kane Russell's attempt was thwarted by Ranchi Royals goalkeeper Suraj Karkera. Shortly after, Ranchi Royals were awarded a penalty corner, but Tom Boon was unable to convert.
Royals Strike First
As the second quarter resumed, Mandeep Singh displayed excellent awareness to win the ball in a threatening position. Although his initial shot was saved, Araijeet Singh Hundal (19') capitalized on the rebound, easily slotting it into the empty net.
HIL GC responded in the 25th minute with another penalty corner. Kane Russell's dragflick was initially saved, but Lalit Kumar Upadhyay (25') was quick to tap in the equalizer. The match remained tightly contested, with both teams creating chances but failing to score before halftime.
Action-Packed Third Quarter
Just two minutes into the third quarter, Ranchi Royals regained the lead. Mandeep Singh's shot was saved by HIL GC's goalkeeper, but Araijeet Singh Hundal (32') was there to finish the rebound.
HIL GC equalized again three minutes later through a penalty corner, successfully converted by Kane Russell (36'). They then took the lead for the first time with a field goal from Sudeep Chirmako (39'), but Ranchi Royals quickly responded with a goal from Sam Lane (42'), leveling the score once more.
Dramatic Final Quarter Leads to Shootout
In the final quarter, both teams pushed hard for the winning goal. HIL GC earned a penalty corner in the 47th minute, but Suraj Karkera made another crucial save against Kane Russell's dragflick.
Ranchi Royals were awarded a penalty corner in the 62nd minute, but James Mazarelo denied their attempt. A critical mistake by Ranchi Royals allowed Lalit Kumar Upadhyay (53') to score, giving HIL GC the lead again. However, Tom Boon (57') equalized with a powerful strike, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
Royals Excel in Shootout
In the shootout, Ranchi Royals dominated, winning 4-1. Vishnukant Singh, Sam Lane, Maxime van Oost, and Tom Boon all scored, while goalkeeper Suraj Karkera was instrumental in securing the victory.