The Delhi SG Pipers emerged victorious against the Odisha Warriors, winning 3-2 in a thrilling penalty shootout on Thursday in the Women’s Hero Hockey India League 2025. Notably, goalkeeper Elodie Picard’s exceptional saves proved crucial after the teams remained tied 1-1 at the end of regulation time.
Early Chances from Both Teams
From the beginning, the SG Pipers looked determined. In the 8th minute, Navneet Kaur made a brilliant run into the circle. Subsequently, she sent a slapshot across the goal, but Geeta Yadav missed the opportunity to connect.
On the other hand, the Odisha Warriors responded quickly. Sakshi Rana delivered a precise pass to Michelle Fillet, who had a clear chance to score. However, Bichu Devi showcased her sharp reflexes to block the attempt. Shortly after, Sakshi created another chance, but Shileima Chanu swiftly intervened to neutralize the threat.
Meanwhile, the SG Pipers focused their attacks on the left flank. One such move saw Charlotte Watson receive a long pass inside the circle. Although she attempted a tomahawk shot, the ball flew over the goalpost.
Navneet Breaks the Deadlock
Eventually, the SG Pipers’ persistence paid off in the 28th minute. Preeti Dubey made an impressive run, dodging multiple defenders, but was fouled near the goal. This earned the team a penalty stroke. Without hesitation, Navneet Kaur converted it with precision, slotting the ball into the bottom left corner to give her side a 1-0 lead.
Odisha’s Resilient Comeback
However, the Odisha Warriors started the second half with renewed energy. In the 34th minute, they earned their first penalty corner through Baljeet Kaur. Although Yibbi Jansen’s initial drag-flick was saved, she made no mistake on the rebound. Her powerful shot found the net, leveling the score 1-1 in the 35th minute.
Intense Action in the Final Quarter
As the match progressed, both teams created opportunities. The SG Pipers earned a penalty corner in the 41st minute, but Navneet’s strike went off target. Similarly, Odisha’s Jansen came close to scoring again after receiving an aerial pass from Claire Colwill. Yet, Bichu Devi stood firm and made another crucial save.
In the final quarter, the tension increased significantly. First, Lily Owsley of the SG Pipers received a yellow card in the 49th minute, leaving her team with one player less for five minutes. Then, Odisha’s captain Neha Goyal was also shown a yellow card, giving the Pipers a numerical advantage. Despite this, Odisha’s defense held strong as Bartram denied Stephanie De Groof’s penalty corner attempt in the dying moments. Consequently, the match moved into a penalty shootout.
Shootout Drama
The penalty shootout showcased brilliant goalkeeping from both sides. Picard and Bartram made outstanding saves to keep their teams in contention. Finally, the decisive moment arrived with the 10th attempt. Odisha trailed 2-3 as Freeke Moes stepped up. She attempted to trick Picard but missed the target. Although she appealed for a penalty stroke, the umpire upheld the original decision.
In the end, the SG Pipers claimed their second win of the season, thanks to their determination and Picard’s stellar performance. Transitioning from tense moments to triumphant celebrations, the team demonstrated exceptional composure to secure this hard-fought victory.