HIL 2024-25: Anderson's Record-Breaking Goal Not Enough as Team Gonasika Triumphs in Shootout
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Synopsis
In an exhilarating match at the HIL 2024-25, Jacob Anderson scored the fastest goal, but Team Gonasika's comeback led to a thrilling shootout victory against the Hyderabad Toofans, who remain in contention for the semifinals.
Key Takeaways
- Jacob Anderson set the HIL record for the fastest goal.
- Team Gonasika came back from a 3-2 deficit.
- Oliver Payne's exceptional performance in the shootout secured the win.
- The match was held at Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium.
- The Toofans await their semifinal fate.
Rourkela, Jan 28 (NationPress) Jacob Anderson set a record for the quickest goal in Hockey India League (HIL) history, but it ultimately proved futile as the Hyderabad Toofans ended in a 3-3 deadlock against Team Gonasika, who clinched victory 1-3 in the subsequent shootout at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium on Tuesday. Anderson's goal came just 20 seconds into the match, followed by contributions from Tim Brand (6’) and Amandeep Lakra (25'). However, Victor Charlet netted twice (12’, 55') and Araijeet Singh Hundal scored a brilliant goal (24') to level the score before winning the shootout.
Right from the start, the Toofans showcased an electrifying performance as Anderson struck the fastest goal in HIL's history. The Australian capitalized on a defensive blunder, dashing into the circle and sending the ball into the net within the first 20 seconds.
The Toofans, who surged ahead in the opening minute, doubled their lead in the sixth minute. Maico Casella exhibited exquisite stickwork, reaching the edge of the box and delivering a blazing pass. Brand, alert to the situation, deftly redirected the ball into the roof of the net, extending the Toofans' lead to 2-0. Team Gonasika fought back in the 12th minute when awarded a penalty stroke. Charlet seized the moment and outsmarted Dominic Dixon, who dove the wrong way. By the end of the first quarter, the Toofans clung to a 2-1 advantage.
The second quarter saw Team Gonasika equalize quickly when awarded another penalty stroke. Araijeet confidently converted from the spot, leveling the match at 24 minutes. But the Toofans didn’t relent, swiftly regaining the lead through local hero Amandeep, who executed a powerful drag-flick that thrilled the Rourkela crowd, sending the teams into halftime with a 3-2 scoreline in favor of the Toofans.
The third quarter featured a flurry of activity, with both teams trying to capitalize on penalty corners. However, neither could find the back of the net. Dixon made a notable save off a low shot from Gonzalo Peillat, keeping the score intact.
In the final quarter, Team Gonasika pushed for an equalizer, and Araijeet's forceful shot was expertly blocked by Dixon. However, Dixon was finally beaten in the 55th minute by Charlet's powerful drag-flick that found its mark, leveling the game at 3-3.
On his birthday, Jack Waller nearly clinched the win for Team Gonasika with a powerful connection to Araijeet’s cross, but Dixon was up to the task with a phenomenal save, leading to a penalty shootout.
The Toofans initially took the lead in the shootout, but Oliver Payne delivered an outstanding performance, making three consecutive saves and ensuring a jubilant end to his team’s campaign. This result leaves the Toofans in second place, awaiting the outcome of Wednesday’s matches to determine their semifinal fate.
