HIL 2024-25: Hyderabad Toofans Secure Bonus Point in Shootout Victory Against Delhi SG Pipers
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Rourkela, Dec 31 (NationPress) Following a spectacular start with two early strikes from Amandeep Lakra (11') and Gonzalo Peillat (13'), the Hyderabad Toofans let their lead slip, allowing Delhi SG Pipers to recover and level the score at 2-2 in a captivating encounter in the Hockey India League 2025 on New Year's Eve. Goals from Dilraj Singh (21') and Gareth Furlong (50') facilitated SG Pipers' comeback. Nevertheless, Toofans displayed their resilience, clinching the bonus point with a 5-4 victory in the shootout.
After their opening match win against Team Gonasika, Delhi SG Pipers aggressively advanced into the attacking circle. Jake Whetton led the charge, showcasing his rapid dribbling skills to reach the top of the striking circle and take a daring shot on goal, which was deftly blocked by Vikas Dahiya of Hyderabad Toofans.
In the 10th minute, the Toofans earned the first penalty corner (PC) of the match, courtesy of Timothy Daniel's quick thinking. Local hero Amandeep ignited early New Year's celebrations in Rourkela with a brilliant drag-flick. Moments later, Toofans struck again, this time with a powerful flick from the world's top drag-flicker Gonzalo Peillat, leaving no chance for SG Pipers' young goalkeeper Pawan.
After starting on the back foot, SG Pipers were eager to correct their attack. They finally narrowed the deficit to 1-2 in the 21st minute when Whetton set up a goal for Dilraj Singh, who has been in excellent form with consecutive podium finishes for the junior India team, effortlessly sliding the ball past Toofans' goalkeeper Dahiya.
Although Toofans had opportunities to extend their lead through several penalty corners and striker Talwinder taking a daring shot just before the second hooter, they were unable to convert.
With the score at 2-1 at halftime, both teams increased their intensity in the third quarter as they sought to score. Sumit demonstrated exceptional 3D skills, earning Delhi SG Pipers their first PC in the 37th minute, but they failed to capitalize on the chance.
Meanwhile, Rajinder helped Toofans secure another PC in the 42nd minute, but Maico Casella's shot was expertly saved by Benjamin Rennie. Despite both teams' efforts, the third quarter ended without any goals.
With only a one-goal lead, Hyderabad Toofans needed to maintain strong defense to thwart the SG Pipers' forwards. However, they conceded a PC in the 50th minute, marking SG Pipers' second PC, and this time they hit the target. Gareth Furlong opened his account in the Hero Hockey India League with a perfectly executed drag flick to level the score at 2-2.
Thanks to Wallace's efforts, Toofans earned their fifth PC of the match, but they mismanaged the execution. In the final moments of the match, Toofans won another PC, but luck was on their side as the attempt rebounded off the post, leading the match into a shootout.
