Rourkela: James Mazarelo’s stellar goalkeeping performance propelled the UP Rudras to a remarkable 3-1 comeback victory over the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers in their Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 clash at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium on Monday.
Trailing after Enrique Gonzalez’s 13th-minute opener for the Lancers, the Rudras turned the tide in the second half with goals from Kane Russell (45’, 60’) and Sudeep Chirmako (50’), showcasing resilience and tactical prowess.
The Lancers started strong, with Gonzalez converting a slick move down the right flank to give the home side the lead. The Kalinga side dominated the first half, creating multiple scoring opportunities and racking up 13 circle penetrations. However, Mazarelo stood as an unyielding wall, making five crucial saves to keep the Rudras in contention.
The second half saw the Rudras shift gears. Russell’s drag flick from a penalty corner in the 45th minute restored parity, reigniting the team’s spirit. Moments later, Chirmako capitalized on a defensive lapse to edge the Rudras ahead.
The Lancers pressed hard for an equalizer, removing their goalkeeper in the final minutes for an extra outfield player. However, the Rudras’ defense, anchored by Mazarelo, remained impenetrable. With just seconds left on the clock, Russell sealed the victory with a penalty corner strike, exploiting the Lancers’ empty net.
Player of the Match Mazarelo reflected on the team’s performance: “It is a massive win just to show that even if we’re down in the game, we’re always in the match and then we can back ourselves to go and score multiple goals.”
The Hero Hockey India League continues with Delhi SG Pipers facing Hyderabad Toofans on December 31 at 8:15 PM IST. Matches are broadcast across multiple channels, including DD Sports and the Sony Sports Network, in various languages.