Bhubaneswar, Jan 20 (NationPress) JSW Soorma Hockey Club showcased an extraordinary display to defeat the top-ranked Vedanta Kalinga Lancers 2-1 during Match 26 of the Men’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 season at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday.

In their concluding league match, the leading Lancers found it challenging to penetrate a determined Soorma team, whose steadfastness kept their playoff hopes flickering. Victor Wegnez earned the title of Player of the Match due to his exceptional contributions in both offensive and defensive plays.

The match commenced with both teams exercising caution for the initial five minutes. The Lancers generated the first chance in the 6th minute via Henderson, but the Soorma defense held strong. Despite the Lancers controlling possession, Soorma posed a threat on the counterattack, earning their first penalty corner by the 10th minute.

Unfortunately, Harmanpreet Singh’s drag-flick went astray. The Lancers nearly took the lead in the last minute with a penalty corner, but goalkeeper Vincent Vanasch made two spectacular saves, concluding the first quarter at 0-0.

The second quarter saw both teams maintain a disciplined approach. Soorma's captain Harmanpreet Singh tried to assist Lucas Martinez in the 17th minute, but the forward couldn't find a decisive touch. The breakthrough finally occurred in the 23rd minute after a period of coordinated passing.

Nicolas Keenan made a dynamic run from the left flank; although goalkeeper Snowden halted his initial attempt, Jeetpal seized the rebound, giving Soorma a 1-0 advantage. Tensions rose for the Lancers as they struggled to equalize, leading to Dilpreet Singh receiving a 10-minute yellow card just before halftime.

Beginning the second half with a player advantage, Soorma exerted immediate pressure. They gained a penalty corner in the 35th minute, compelling a fantastic save from Krishan Pathak against a nearly perfect drag-flick from Harmanpreet. Shortly after, Soorma secured several penalty corners.

In the 38th minute, they executed a tactical variation; instead of a direct shot, the ball was passed to Vivek Sagar Prasad, who netted it to extend the lead to 2-0. The Lancers responded with a vigorous offensive effort, but Vanasch thwarted their attempts.

The final quarter saw the Lancers increase their tempo and finally score in the 48th minute through Henderson. Sensing an equalizer, the top-ranked team pressed hard, with Marias’ shot narrowly missing the target in the 53rd minute.

The closing minutes were chaotic as the Lancers unleashed everything on the Soorma defense. However, led by the indefatigable Victor Wegnez, Soorma withstood the pressure and clinched three crucial points.