In the final Pool stage match of the Women’s Hero Hockey India League 2024-25, JSW Soorma Hockey Club triumphed over Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers with a 4-2 victory at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi. As a result, Soorma secured their spot in the final against Odisha Warriors.
Early Breakthrough by Soorma
The match kicked off with an early surprise from Soorma. In the first minute, Charlotte Englebert capitalized on a loose pass from the Tigers and fired a shot past goalkeeper Grace O’Hanlon to give Soorma a 1-0 lead. Following this, Soorma maintained their pressure high up the pitch, forcing the Tigers into errors.
Soorma Extends Lead
Soon after, Sharmila Devi passed the ball to Hina Bano, who neatly slotted it past O’Hanlon in the 9th minute, extending Soorma’s lead to 2-0. Despite Soorma’s high press and a penalty corner attempt, they were unable to add more goals in the opening quarter.
Englebert’s Stunning Performance
In the second quarter, Englebert struck again. Receiving the ball at the top of the circle, she executed a reverse shot that found the bottom right corner, making it 3-0 for Soorma. While the Tigers attempted to break through with some counterattacks, including a shot by Rosin Upton, Soorma controlled the majority of possession and continued to dominate, thanks to Maria Verschoor’s midfield leadership.
Tigers Show Fight in Third Quarter
In the third quarter, the Tigers showed more confidence. They earned a penalty corner early on, but failed to convert. They also had attempts from Kathryn Mullan and Vandana Katariya, but Soorma’s goalkeeper Natalia Salvador made two crucial saves to keep the score at 3-0.
Englebert Completes Hat-Trick, Tigers Respond Late
In the final quarter, Soorma earned a penalty corner that led to a penalty stroke. Englebert stepped up and completed her hat-trick with a low flick into the left corner. However, the Tigers responded with a counterattack through Lalremsiami. Her cross deflected to Vandana Katariya, who scored, bringing the score to 4-1.
Late Push by Tigers
With two minutes remaining, the Tigers earned their first penalty corner and reduced the deficit to 4-2 through Shilpi Dabas’ successful shot. Despite their efforts, Soorma’s defense held strong, and they managed to secure the win, booking their place in the final.
