Chennai, Jan 5 (NationPress) In a gripping matchup of the Men’s Hockey India League 2025-26, HIL GC triumphed over SG Pipers with a thrilling score of 3-2, thanks to a last-minute penalty corner executed by Kane Russell, sealing the win in the final seconds of their opening game.

Ky Willott (31') and Dilraj Singh (56') each found the net for the Pipers, while Kane Russell showcased his prowess by scoring a hat-trick (35', 37', 60') for HIL GC.

The Pipers began the match with impressive energy, utilizing quick passes and aggressive plays to apply early pressure on HIL GC. Their proactive strategy earned them a penalty corner in the fourth minute, but they failed to convert the opportunity into a goal.

Gradually, HIL GC found their footing and mounted their own attacks to ease the pressure. Less than five minutes before the first quarter concluded, they earned a penalty corner, which unfortunately did not result in a score.

The most significant chance of the opening quarter came in the final moments as HIL GC sought to break the stalemate. However, Pipers' goalkeeper Tomas Santiago made a remarkable close-range save, keeping the score at 0-0 as the first quarter ended.

The second quarter was characterized by a back-and-forth exchange, with both teams ramping up the effort and making numerous circle entries. Each side generated several scoring chances, applying pressure on the defenses and goalkeepers. Despite several near-misses on both sides, the contest remained deadlocked at 0-0 heading into halftime.

With renewed determination, SG Pipers entered the third quarter and quickly made their mark. Midfielder Ky Willott (31’) demonstrated exceptional composure, collecting a pass, advancing toward goal, and skillfully lobbing the ball over HIL GC goalkeeper James Mazarelo to give his team a crucial lead.

However, the lead was fleeting as HIL GC retaliated through drag-flick expert Kane Russell (35’, 37’), who scored two back-to-back goals from penalty corners, shifting the momentum in favor of his team. As the third quarter concluded, HIL GC led 2-1.

In the fourth quarter, SG Pipers aimed to equalize, making several circle entries but struggling to find the finishing touch. HIL GC, on the other hand, threatened on the counter-attack but were repeatedly thwarted by the impressive saves from goalkeeper Tomas Santiago.

With under five minutes left, the Pipers managed to level the score as Dilraj Singh (56’) converted a penalty corner. Yet, the joy was short-lived as HIL GC earned a last-minute penalty corner, and Kane Russell (60’) capitalized expertly to complete his hat-trick, securing a thrilling 3-2 victory for his team in their opening match.