The UP Rudras secured a commanding 2-0 victory over Team Gonasika on Tuesday. This win propelled them to the top of the Men’s Hero Hockey India League 2024-25 standings. Goals from Tanguy Cosyns (37’) and Kane Russell (40’) made the difference in a closely contested match.
To begin with, both teams struggled to create clear opportunities in the first quarter. Although they made several circle entries, neither side managed to score. Consequently, the quarter ended goalless.
Gonasika Comes Close
In the 18th minute, Team Gonasika earned the game’s first penalty corner. Araijeet Hundal skillfully forced a defender’s error with clever stickwork. However, James Mazarelo made an excellent save, denying Victor Charlet’s drag-flick.
Rudras Gain Momentum
As the game progressed, the Rudras began to dominate the second quarter. For instance, Gurjot Singh’s run into the circle earned their first penalty corner. Despite this, Oliver Payne, Gonasika’s goalkeeper, blocked Kane Russell’s shot.
Furthermore, the Rudras won three more penalty corners before halftime. Yet, Payne continued his excellent form, keeping the score at 0-0.
Missed Chances for Gonasika
After halftime, Gonasika had another opportunity. Amir Ali earned a penalty corner in the 33rd minute after being fouled. Even so, Charlet mishit his drag-flick, letting the chance slip away.
Rudras Take Control
Finally, the UP Rudras broke the deadlock in the 37th minute. A smart penalty corner variation saw Russell set up Cosyns, who struck a powerful shot into the net. Almost immediately, Gonasika came close to equalizing, but Floris Wortelboer made a crucial goal-line save.
Securing the Lead
Shortly after, the Rudras doubled their lead in the 40th minute. Russell’s fierce drag-flick deflected off goalkeeper Suraj Karkera’s glove and into the net. As a result, the Rudras gained firm control of the match.
Strong Finish
In the closing minutes, the Rudras nearly added a third goal. James Albery found himself in a one-on-one situation, but Karkera denied him with a smart save. Meanwhile, the Rudras’ defense stood strong, preventing any late threats from Gonasika.
Top of the Table
With this victory, the UP Rudras climbed to the top of the standings. Their clinical performance, combined with a strong defense, highlighted their title ambitions in the Hockey India League.
