The Kalinga Lancers displayed a brilliant performance, defeating the Delhi SG Pipers 5-1 in the Men’s Hero Hockey India League 2024-25 clash at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, Rourkela. Nicholas Bandurak (11’), Arthur van Doren (36’), Thierry Brinkman (38’, 43’), and Gursahibjit Singh (45’) scored for the Lancers, while Corey Weyer (46’) managed a lone goal for the Pipers.
Early Advantage for the Lancers
At the start of the match, the Delhi SG Pipers came out strong and won a penalty corner in the fourth minute. Although Tomas Domene fired a powerful shot, Krishan Pathak made a clean save to deny them. Meanwhile, the Lancers came close to scoring in the eighth minute, but Pawan Kumar made several crucial saves.
Eventually, in the 11th minute, Nicholas Bandurak broke the deadlock. He capitalized on a rebound after Pawan blocked his initial attempt and smashed the ball into the net. Thus, the Lancers took an early 1-0 lead.
Pipers Struggle to Convert
In the second quarter, the Pipers pushed for an equalizer. Lucas Toscani’s skillful run earned a penalty corner in the 23rd minute. However, Rohit Kumar’s strike was once again stopped by Pathak. Shortly after, Iktidar Ishrat had a chance to score but sent his shot wide.
On the other hand, the Lancers also missed an opportunity when Dilpreet Singh failed to convert a clear chance. As the quarter progressed, Domene’s drag flick in the final minute of the half failed to trouble Pathak. Consequently, the Lancers went into halftime with a slim 1-0 lead.
Lancers Take Control After Halftime
After the break, the Pipers started aggressively and earned two penalty corners early in the third quarter. Nevertheless, Pathak stood firm and kept them at bay.
In the 36th minute, the Lancers extended their lead. Arthur van Doren perfectly deflected a clever penalty corner variation into the goal. Just two minutes later, Thierry Brinkman intercepted the ball and slotted it past Pawan Kumar, making it 3-0.
Moreover, Brinkman struck again in the 43rd minute. When Pawan rushed out to block Angad Bir Singh, the ball deflected toward Brinkman, who calmly scored into an open net. With this goal, Brinkman became the season’s top scorer.
Late Goals Seal the Game
The Lancers added their fifth goal in the 45th minute. Rosan Kujur made an excellent run down the right flank and set up Gursahibjit Singh, who finished confidently.
However, the Pipers managed to pull one back in the very next minute. Jake Whetton won possession and found Corey Weyer, who fired a thunderous tomahawk past Pathak. Despite this, the goal was merely a consolation as the Lancers had already secured the win.
Overall, the Kalinga Lancers dominated the game with their efficient attack and solid defense. Their ability to convert chances and Krishan Pathak’s brilliant goalkeeping ensured a commanding 5-1 victory over the Delhi SG Pipers.