Soorma Hockey Club delivered a commanding performance, defeating Delhi SG Pipers 5-1 in the Women’s Hero Hockey India League 2025. The match was held on Tuesday at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi.
First Quarter: A Strong Start
Right from the start, Soorma took control of the game. In the sixth minute, Charlotte Englebert opened the scoring with a low reverse sweep after Maria Verschoor’s brilliant pass. Shortly after, Soorma extended their lead. A rebound from Bichu Devi Kharibam’s save allowed Sonam to tap the ball into the net.
Without wasting any time, Englebert dribbled past defenders and found Charlotte Stapenhorst, who lobbed the ball across the goal. Sonam quickly tapped it in, making it 3-0 before the first quarter ended.
Second Quarter: Sustained Pressure
Moving into the second quarter, Soorma continued to dominate. Englebert and Stapenhorst created several chances, keeping the pressure on Delhi SG Pipers’ defence. However, Pipers began finding their rhythm.
Preeti Dubey made a promising run and crossed the ball into the circle, but none of her teammates could capitalize. Meanwhile, Verschoor and Englebert maintained control of the midfield, generating more opportunities. Despite their best efforts, Bichu and the Pipers’ defenders held firm, preventing further damage.
Third Quarter: Trading Goals
As the third quarter began, the Pipers shifted their strategy. They used aerial passes to bypass Soorma’s press and created a chance for Sangita Kumari. However, Savita, Soorma’s goalkeeper, swiftly shut her down.
Nevertheless, Soorma struck again five minutes into the quarter. Englebert intercepted a pass and set up Stapenhorst, who skillfully lifted the ball over Elodie Picard to make it 4-0. The Pipers responded almost immediately. Navneet Kaur found Sangita Kumari in open space, and Sangita smashed the ball past Savita to score their first goal. Although the Pipers pushed for a second, Soorma’s defence stayed resolute.
Final Quarter: Closing with Authority
In the final quarter, Soorma slowed the tempo, focusing on ball control. However, the Pipers earned a penalty corner early on. Manisha Chauhan’s flick was easily blocked by Savita, denying them a chance to narrow the gap.
As time ticked away, the Pipers showed more urgency. Charlotte Watson broke into the circle but delivered a weak shot. Another penalty corner for the Pipers ended with Lily Owsley failing to connect with Deepika’s effort.
In the final minute, Soorma earned a penalty corner. Penny Squibb stepped up and delivered a powerful shot into the top left corner, sealing a 5-1 victory for her team.
