UP Rudras managed a thrilling 1-0 win against Team Gonasika in the Men’s Hero Hockey India League 2024-25 on Saturday. The match, held at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Hockey Stadium in Ranchi, saw the Rudras rise to third place on the points table as Phase I of the league concluded.
Significantly, captain Hardik Singh led from the front. He scored the decisive goal, ensuring a hard-earned victory for his team.
Gonasika Begins Strong but Falls Behind
At the start of the match, Gonasika dominated possession. Their strikers made early inroads and secured two penalty corners (PCs). However, they failed to capitalize on these chances, missing the opportunity to take an early lead.
Meanwhile, as the first quarter progressed, it appeared that the game would remain goalless. Yet, a critical defensive mistake by Gonasika’s skipper Manpreet Singh turned the tide. Following a self-referral by the on-field umpire, UP Rudras were awarded a penalty stroke. Subsequently, Hardik Singh stepped up and confidently converted it, giving Rudras a 1-0 advantage just before the first quarter ended.
Missed Opportunities in the Second Quarter
In the second quarter, Gonasika increased their efforts to find an equalizer. Notably, they earned multiple PCs but failed to convert them, as drag flicker Timothee Clement struggled to hit the target.
On the other hand, UP Rudras maintained control in the midfield. Hardik Singh showcased exceptional stick work, urging his forwards to extend the lead. Despite their best efforts, neither team managed to score, and the quarter ended with no change in the scoreline.
Gonasika Pushes Harder in the Third Quarter
As the third quarter began, Gonasika came out with renewed intent. Within three minutes, they won another PC. However, Rudras’ defense, particularly their rushers, effectively blocked Araijeet Hundal’s drag flick.
Consequently, UP Rudras dominated possession for most of the quarter. Their structured play and accurate passing made it difficult for Gonasika to regain control. Later, in the 42nd minute, Gonasika earned their seventh PC of the match but failed to trap the ball cleanly, wasting another chance. The quarter ended without any goals.
A Tense Final Quarter
The final quarter witnessed intense action as both teams pushed hard. Gonasika’s Manpreet Singh and Rudras’ Lalit Upadhyay engaged in fierce battles, showcasing their determination.
Furthermore, in the 50th minute, Gonasika earned another PC but missed the target once again. Shortly afterward, Manpreet created an excellent scoring opportunity for Jack Waller, but the Rudras’ defense stayed solid and denied the chance.
With less than five minutes left, Gonasika’s Timothee Clement took a powerful shot, but Rudras’ goalkeeper James Mazarelo made an outstanding save. In the final moments, Gonasika earned one last PC. However, UP Rudras held their nerves and thwarted the attempt, sealing their 1-0 victory.
Ultimately, this win highlighted Rudras’ ability to perform under pressure. Hardik Singh’s leadership and match-winning goal played a pivotal role in securing this important result, ending Phase I on a positive note for the team.