HIL 2024-25: Soorma Hockey Club Prepares for Strategic Challenge Against UP Rudras

Rourkela, Jan 1 (NationPress) After rallying from a goal deficit to earn two points in their initial match, the Soorma Hockey Club is preparing to challenge the UP Rudras in their second encounter of the Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium on Thursday. The team hopes to capitalize on their momentum and secure all points with a decisive victory.

Soorma Club enters this match following a bonus point gained from a shootout after a 1-1 tie against the Tamil Nadu Dragons in their opener. In contrast, the UP Rudras achieved three points in their first match with an impressive 3-1 win over the Kalinga Lancers.

The Soorma Hockey Club excelled in several key metrics during their first match, including possession, shots on goal, and circle entries.

Reflecting on their opening game, head coach Jeroen Baart commented, “I believe the first half resembled a chess game, while the third quarter saw both teams gain momentum. The first goal opened up the match, allowing us to create more opportunities afterward.”

“Looking back at the statistics and the footage, we should have come away with all three points. However, when you find yourself down 1-0 with seven minutes left, you must be content with a draw and the bonus point from the shootout,” Baart added.

As they prepare for the match against the UP Rudras, Baart recognized the fiercely competitive nature of the tournament. “As we’ve witnessed in the initial matches of the HIL, it’s going to be closely contested. It’s thrilling that every game remains exciting until the final whistle, and each match will be a tactical challenge,” he stated.

Victor Wegnez, a pivotal midfielder for the Soorma Hockey Club, shared insights on their strategy against the Rudras, stressing the significance of strong defensive efforts and capitalizing on penalty corner opportunities. “For us, the primary focus will be on defense while aiming to secure as many penalty corners as possible. We have exceptional defenders and a robust team for penalty corners, including Harmanpreet, Jeremy Hayward, and Nicolas Della Torre,” remarked the 29-year-old.