The Men’s Hero Hockey India League 2024-25 came to a thrilling conclusion with Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers defeating Hyderabad Toofans 4-3 in the final at Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium, Rourkela, on Saturday.

Key Players and Scorers

Gonzalo Peillat (9′, 39′) and Amandeep Lakra (26′) scored for the Hyderabad Toofans. On the other hand, Jugraj Singh (25′, 32′, 35′) and Sam Lane (54′) found the back of the net for the Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers. As a result, the Tigers claimed INR 3 crore, while the Toofans received INR 2 crore.

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First Quarter: A Close Start

From the outset, both teams tested each other’s defense. The Tigers relied on aerial passes, which earned them a penalty corner early on. However, the Toofans defended well, stopping three attempts. Then, in the 9th minute, Peillat flicked a penalty corner past the goalkeeper, putting the Toofans ahead 1-0.

Second Quarter: A Back-and-Forth Battle

The Toofans maintained their attacking momentum, while the Tigers responded with counterattacks. Six minutes into the quarter, the Tigers earned a penalty corner, and Jugraj Singh scored with a powerful drag flick, bringing the score to 1-1. However, the Toofans quickly regained the lead when Amandeep Lakra found the back of the net with another penalty corner, making it 2-1.

Third Quarter: Jugraj’s Hat Trick

As the third quarter unfolded, the Tigers slowed the game’s tempo, focusing on creating a clear goal-scoring chance. They earned a penalty corner, and Jugraj Singh converted again, leveling the score at 2-2. Shortly after, Jugraj completed his hat trick with another drag flick, giving the Tigers a 3-2 lead. Nevertheless, the Toofans responded with a penalty corner of their own, and Peillat equalized at 3-3.

Final Quarter: Sam Lane Seals the Win

In the final quarter, the Tigers came out strong, earning multiple penalty corners. Although Tim Brand, the Toofans’ goalkeeper, made some crucial saves, the Tigers didn’t give up. Finally, in the 54th minute, Sam Lane scored the winning goal with a penalty corner, putting the Tigers ahead 4-3. The Toofans earned one more penalty corner, but Jamie Carr saved Peillat’s shot. Ultimately, the Tigers held on to win the match.

With this victory, the Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers were crowned champions after a hard-fought and exciting contest.