HIL 2024-25: Bengal Tigers Rally to Defeat Delhi SG Pipers 2-1 and Secure Semifinal Spot
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Synopsis
The Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers staged an incredible comeback, scoring two late goals to defeat the Delhi SG Pipers 2-1 in the HIL match on Jan 27. This victory not only highlighted their resilience but also ensured their place in the semifinals with 18 points from nine games.
Key Takeaways
- Bengal Tigers scored two late goals to win.
- They qualified for the semifinals with 18 points.
- Tomas Domene opened the scoring for the SG Pipers.
- Rupinder Pal Singh and Sebastien Dockier scored for Bengal.
- Match showcased thrilling last-minute action.
Rourkela (Odisha), Jan 27 (NationPress) The Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers pulled off an unforgettable comeback, netting two crucial goals in the last five minutes to triumph over the Delhi SG Pipers during the Men’s Hockey India League (HIL) match on Monday. This remarkable turnaround secured the Bengal Tigers a spot in the semifinals, accumulating 18 points from nine matches.
Tomas Domene initially set the pace for the SG Pipers, scoring in the 27th minute. However, the Bengal Tigers responded with late goals from Rupinder Pal Singh (55') and Sebastien Dockier (59'), clinching a spectacular victory.
Both teams began the match cautiously, engaging in a closely fought first quarter. The SG Pipers earned a single penalty corner, but their attempt went wide. While the SG Pipers primarily attacked from the left through Dilraj Singh, it was the Bengal Tigers who almost broke the deadlock. Dockier executed a brilliant combination with Abhishek to penetrate the opposition circle, but Benjamin Rennie made an impressive save to thwart their efforts.
The SG Pipers’ sustained pressure bore fruit in the 27th minute through excellent teamwork between Domene and Lucas Toscani. Domene received a precise through ball and continued his run, converting Toscani's return pass into a powerful shot that found the top of the net, putting the SG Pipers ahead 1-0.
The Bengal Tigers believed they had equalized in the 31st minute when Sukhkjeet Singh scored, but the goal was disallowed. It seemed the SG Pipers would hold on for a narrow win until the Bengal Tigers took charge in the final quarter.
Skipper Rupinder reignited hope for his team by scoring from a well-executed penalty corner setup. Jugraj, positioned in the second battery, received the push and set it up perfectly for Rupinder, who fired it home, leveling the score at 1-1 with just five minutes remaining.
The decisive moment arrived in the 59th minute when Gursewak Singh made a dazzling run down the right flank, skillfully outmaneuvering defenders before delivering a superb pass across the goal. Dockier, in the right position, showcased his poacher’s instinct, finishing from close range and sealing a fantastic win for the Bengal Tigers.
