HIL 2024-25: Hyderabad Toofans Claim Thrilling Sudden Death Victory Over Soorma Hockey Club

Rourkela, Jan 11 (NationPress) Hyderabad Toofans triumphed over Soorma Hockey Club with a score of 1-1 (4-3 SO) in the penalty shootouts during the Hockey India League 2024-25 at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium on Saturday. Nicolas Della Torre (8’) put Soorma Hockey Club ahead in the first quarter, but Amandeep Lakra (40’) leveled the match for the Hyderabad Toofans with a powerful drag flick. The heroics of Dominic Dixson in sudden death clinched the bonus point for the Hyderabad Toofans.

The Hyderabad Toofans started the match aggressively, applying a high press that made it tough for Soorma Hockey Club to circulate the ball. This pressure led to an early opportunity for Shilanand Lakra, whose shot went over the goal. However, as the quarter progressed, Soorma regained their composure, with Nicolas Della Torre making a dazzling run to earn the first penalty corner of the match. Della Torre again took charge, scoring to give Soorma Hockey Club the early lead. Although Hyderabad Toofans created several chances, they were unable to score in the first quarter.

In the second quarter, the Hyderabad Toofans intensified their pressure, leading to some counterattacks from Soorma Hockey Club. Midway through the quarter, Arshdeep seized a loose ball in the shooting circle but failed to convert after getting past Vincent Vanasch. The Toofans generated multiple circle entries and shooting opportunities, yet the Soorma defense held strong, concluding the first half with a 1-0 lead for Soorma.

As the third quarter began, both teams slowed the game down to create clearer chances. The first opportunity went to the Toofans when Shilanand Lakra found Jacob Anderson on the left wing, but his close-range shot missed the target. Soorma earned a penalty corner halfway through the quarter, but Harmanpreet’s drag flick went wide. Shortly after, Hyderabad Toofans earned a penalty corner of their own, and Amandeep Lakra expertly found the left corner of the goal to equalize.

The final quarter saw the Hyderabad Toofans take charge, earning a penalty corner within five minutes but failing to convert their variation into a goal. They created several chances through Arthur De Sloover and Zach Wallace, yet the Soorma defense remained resolute. With just five seconds remaining, Soorma earned a penalty corner but couldn’t capitalize, leading to penalty shootouts.

Zach Wallace scored for Hyderabad Toofans in sudden death, while goalkeeper Dominic Dixson saved Nicolas Poncelet’s attempt, securing the bonus point for the Hyderabad Toofans.