Delhi SG Pipers finally broke their winless streak in the Women’s Hero Hockey India League 2024-25. They earned a 2-0 victory against table-toppers JSW Soorma Hockey Club on Friday at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela.
Sangita Kumari opened the scoring in the 25th minute, giving the Pipers an early lead. Later, Deepika doubled the advantage in the 47th minute, ensuring their first win of the season.
Pipers Start Strong
From the beginning, the Pipers controlled the game. They moved the ball quickly and cut off Soorma’s passing lanes. Meanwhile, Soorma focused on their defensive setup and managed to block early threats.
As the first quarter progressed, the Pipers earned a penalty corner. However, Stephanie de Groof’s attempt was saved by Soorma’s goalkeeper, Savita. Toward the end of the quarter, Soorma increased their intensity. Both teams created opportunities, but neither could find the back of the net.
Sangita Breaks Through
In the second quarter, Soorma initially looked more aggressive. They dominated possession and pressed into the Pipers’ circle. Even though they earned a penalty corner, Jyoti’s shot was blocked.
Soon after, the momentum shifted. The Pipers regained control and created several chances. Savita performed brilliantly in goal, stopping multiple attempts. Nevertheless, the Pipers finally scored in the 25th minute. Sangita Kumari deftly deflected Stephanie de Groof’s shot into the net, giving her team the lead.
As the quarter neared its end, the Pipers earned more penalty corners. However, Soorma’s Maria Verschoor and the defense worked hard to prevent further damage.
Soorma Fights Back in the Third Quarter
At the start of the third quarter, Soorma intensified their efforts. They pressed high and kept the Pipers under pressure. Despite this, they struggled to create clear opportunities to score.
Midway through the quarter, the Pipers earned another penalty corner. However, they failed to convert. Shortly after, Soorma’s Vaishnavi fired a powerful shot from the top of the circle. Fortunately for the Pipers, goalkeeper Elodie Picard made an excellent save. Although Soorma earned more penalty corners later, their attempts were denied, keeping the Pipers ahead.
Deepika Secures the Victory
The final quarter began with another chance for the Pipers. Deepika stepped up and unleashed a powerful flick into the top left corner, extending the lead to 2-0. In response, Soorma earned a penalty corner minutes later but could not capitalize.
Afterward, the Pipers slowed the tempo and controlled possession. Meanwhile, Soorma pushed forward in a desperate attempt to score. Despite their efforts, the Pipers’ defense held firm until the final whistle. This victory marked a significant moment for the Pipers, ending their winless streak in style.
