Arshdeep Shines as Hyderabad Toofans Defeat UP Rudras 3-1

Arshdeep Singh played a crucial role in Hyderabad Toofans impressive 3-1 victory over UP Rudras in the Men’s Hero Hockey India League 2024-25 on Saturday. His two goals (28′, 60′) added to Gonzalo Peillat’s opener in the 25th minute. Meanwhile, Jobanpreet Singh pulled one back for the Rudras in the 40th minute.

Early Opportunities

From the start, both teams created chances but failed to capitalize. First, Hyderabad Toofans earned a penalty corner in the fifth minute. However, Gonzalo Peillat’s drag flick was stopped by the Rudras’ defense. Shortly afterward, UP Rudras responded when Kane Russell fired a powerful flick, but Mukul Sharma made a brilliant save on the goal line. Then, Akashdeep Singh had an excellent chance to put the Rudras ahead. Unfortunately, he missed, leaving the first quarter scoreless.

Toofans Take the Lead

As the second quarter progressed, Hyderabad Toofans seized control. In the 25th minute, Gonzalo Peillat showcased his expertise in drag flicking. His strike deflected off James Mazarelo’s glove but still found the back of the net, giving the Toofans a 1-0 lead.

Soon after, in the 28th minute, Arshdeep Singh doubled the advantage. He intercepted the ball near the circle, skillfully bypassed two defenders, and delivered a stunning tomahawk shot into the goal. Meanwhile, the Toofans kept pressing for a third goal. For instance, Sam Ward demonstrated exceptional stickwork, controlling an aerial ball and earning a penalty corner. However, Mazarelo made critical saves to keep the Rudras in the match.

Rudras Strike Back

Despite trailing, UP Rudras fought back in the third quarter. In the 40th minute, Jobanpreet Singh gave his team hope. Kane Russell’s drag flick deflected, and Jobanpreet controlled the ball before unleashing a powerful slap shot into the goal.

Subsequently, the Rudras almost equalized in the 50th minute. During a penalty corner, Kane Russell passed the ball to Tanguy Cosyns. The Belgian’s strike appeared destined for the top corner. However, Dominic Dixon made a spectacular diving save to deny the goal.

Arshdeep Seals the Victory

Finally, Arshdeep Singh secured the win in the last minute of the match. Shilanand Lakra and Zachary Wallace exchanged quick passes to create space. Wallace then delivered a perfect ball across the goal, and Arshdeep calmly tapped it in. This goal ensured a 3-1 victory for the Hyderabad Toofans.

Overall, Hyderabad Toofans displayed excellent teamwork and determination. Their attack was relentless, and their defense held firm. Notably, Arshdeep Singh’s two goals and Gonzalo Peillat’s opener proved decisive. Although the Rudras showed moments of brilliance, they could not overcome Hyderabad’s dominance.