Vedanta Kalinga Lancers Secure Thrilling 2-1 Victory Over Shrachi Bengal Tigers

Lancers Triumph in Close Match

On Thursday, the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers achieved their second consecutive victory by narrowly defeating the Shrachi Bengal Tigers 2-1 in the Men's Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26. Goals from Alexander Hendrickx (52') and Boby Singh Dhami (57') propelled the Lancers to victory, while Affan Yousuf (56') scored for the Tigers, according to a press release from HIL.

First Three Quarters End in Stalemate

The match began with the Lancers taking control, dominating possession and making 11 circle entries compared to just two from the Tigers. Despite several attempts on goal, including a penalty corner, the Lancers were unable to score in the first quarter, which ended goalless.

In the second quarter, the Tigers found their rhythm, making 9 circle entries and taking 4 shots. However, they were thwarted by Lancers' goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak, who made several crucial saves. The first half concluded without any goals, despite both teams showing attacking intent.

Final Quarter Brings Excitement

As the final quarter began, both teams were still tied. James Carr, the Tigers' goalkeeper, continued to perform admirably until Alexander Hendrickx broke the deadlock with a penalty corner dragflick in the 52nd minute, giving the Lancers a 1-0 lead.

However, the Tigers quickly equalized just four minutes later when Affan Yousuf scored after a setup from Enrique Gonzalez. The game intensified in the closing moments, and the Lancers responded immediately. Following a penalty corner, Boby Singh Dhami capitalized on a rebound to score the winning goal in the 57th minute, securing all three points for the Lancers and moving them to second place in the standings.