Shrachi Bengal Tigers Triumph Over JSW Soorma in Women's Hockey League Opener

Bengal Tigers Secure Narrow Win

In their inaugural match of the Women's Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 Season, the Shrachi Bengal Tigers achieved a narrow 1-0 victory against JSW Soorma Hockey Club at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium in Ranchi on Monday. The decisive goal came from Agustina Gorzelany in the 11th minute, whose powerful drag flick put the Tigers ahead. Despite a strong offensive effort from JSW Soorma, they could not penetrate the Tigers' formidable defense for the remainder of the match.

Gorzelany's Early Goal Sets the Tone

The match commenced with both teams engaged in a fierce midfield contest. Gradually, Soorma Hockey Club gained momentum, making several attempts to enter the Tigers' shooting circle, although they did not manage a shot on goal. The Tigers, looking to capitalize on their chances, earned a penalty corner with five minutes remaining in the first quarter. Gorzelany executed a precise flick into the bottom right corner, giving the Tigers the lead. Soorma attempted to respond with a penalty corner at the end of the quarter, but Shihori Oikawa's attempt was deflected wide.

Soorma's Persistent Offense Meets Strong Defense

Continuing their offensive pressure in the second quarter, Soorma earned several penalty corners but faced a resilient Tigers defense, led by Lalremsiami. A notable moment came when Soorma's Maria Granatto made a strong run through the midfield, but Valentina Raposo effectively neutralized the threat, allowing the Tigers to maintain their slim lead.

Intense Second Half Unfolds

The second half began with Baljeet Kaur earning a penalty corner for Soorma, but Salima Tete's variation went off target. Soorma continued to push the Tigers back, yet the Tigers' defense held firm, allowing them to launch occasional counterattacks. As the quarter progressed, the Tigers began to create more scoring opportunities but struggled to find the finishing touch. Soorma relied on penalty corner strategies but failed to convert any chances, leading to a tense conclusion to the third quarter with the score still at 1-0.

Tigers Maintain Lead to Secure Victory

As the match entered its final moments, Soorma regained some territory but faced a steadfast Tigers defense. The Tigers slowed the game's pace to manage the clock effectively. In a last-ditch effort, Soorma earned a penalty corner with just two minutes remaining, but Penny Squib's shot went wide. The Tigers held their ground in the closing moments, clinching a 1-0 victory in their season opener.