The Hyderabad Toofans displayed an outstanding performance, defeating the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers 5-1 in the Hero Hockey India League 2024-25. The match, held at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, demonstrated the Toofans’ dominance and clinical finishing.
Early Goals Set the Stage
At first, the Kalinga Lancers took an early lead in the 5th minute. Alexander Hendrickx converted a penalty corner with a powerful strike. However, the Toofans immediately responded. Within a minute, Gonzalo Peillat fired a brilliant shot past goalkeeper Krishan Pathak, leveling the score.
Shortly after, Hendrickx nearly put the Lancers ahead again in the 8th minute, but his shot hit the post. Meanwhile, the Lancers earned another penalty corner at the end of the first quarter. Unfortunately, they couldn’t capitalize, and the teams ended the quarter tied at 1-1.
Toofans Dominate the Second Quarter
As the second quarter began, the Toofans took control. In the 21st minute, Maico Casella scored a jaw-dropping goal. Zachary Wallace provided a precise aerial pass, which Casella volleyed into the top corner from a tight angle.
Then, just before halftime, Peillat struck again. His expertly executed drag-flick in the 30th minute extended the Toofans’ lead to 3-1, giving them a comfortable advantage going into the break.
Lancers Struggle, Toofans Surge Forward
In the third quarter, the Lancers tried to mount a comeback. For example, Thierry Brinkman came close to scoring in the 39th minute but hit the side netting. Similarly, Hendrickx converted another penalty corner attempt, but the ball struck the post again, adding to their frustration.
Meanwhile, the Toofans continued to press forward. In the 47th minute, Tim Brand found the back of the net, further extending their lead to 4-1.
Arshdeep Singh Seals the Victory
By the 54th minute, the Lancers removed their goalkeeper in a desperate attempt to score. However, this move backfired. Arshdeep Singh capitalized on the empty net and lofted the ball in, securing the Toofans’ fifth goal. This strike ended any hopes of a Lancers comeback.
Toofans Climb Higher in the League
In the end, the Toofans celebrated a well-deserved 5-1 victory. This emphatic win propelled them to second place in the standings. Through their cohesive play and relentless attack, the Toofans have established themselves as strong contenders for the league title.
