Rourkela: UP Rudras maintained their unbeaten streak with a commanding 3-0 victory over Soorma Hockey Club in the Hero Hockey India League 2024-25 at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela today.
The game began with UP Rudras taking control from the outset, applying relentless pressure on Soorma Hockey Club’s defence. In just the second minute, Sudeep Chirmako opened the scoring for the Rudras with a powerful shot from the left wing, assisted by Gurjot Singh and Lalit Kumar Upadhyay. Soorma Hockey Club responded with a series of opportunities but were unable to convert, with UP Rudras’ defence, led by Lars Balk and goalkeeper James Mazarelo, holding firm.
Soorma continued to push forward in the second quarter, earning multiple penalty corners, but each attempt was thwarted by the vigilant Rudras’ defence. The Rudras took a 1-0 lead into halftime, showcasing strong teamwork and resilience.
In the third quarter, UP Rudras stepped up their game, maintaining possession and delivering precise passes around Soorma players. At the 38-minute mark, Sudeep Chirmako once again created an opportunity, pulling the ball back to Jobanpreet Singh, who doubled the Rudras’ lead with a well-placed shot. Despite pressing high in search of a goal, Soorma Hockey Club struggled to break through the Rudras’ defence.
The final quarter saw Soorma Hockey Club dominate possession, creating several chances. However, UP Rudras remained solid in defence, with goalkeeper James Mazarelo making crucial saves. With five minutes remaining, Hardik Singh initiated a counterattack, setting up Akashdeep Singh for a stunning reverse tomahawk goal, securing a 3-0 win for the UP Rudras.
Soorma Hockey Club captain Harmanpreet Singh tried to lead a final push, earning a penalty corner, but his shot went wide of the post.
UP Rudras’ second victory solidifies their position in the Hero Hockey India League, with their next match against Vedanta Kalinga Lancers scheduled for January 3 at 8:15 PM IST. The matches will be broadcast on Doordarshan Network and Sony Sports Network.
