Ranchi, Jan 11 (NationPress) Ranchi Royals achieved an impressive victory in their inaugural match of the Men’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 season, triumphing over the reigning champions Shrachi Bengal Tigers with a score of 4-1. In front of an enthusiastic home audience, the Royals executed a remarkable comeback, netting four goals in the last six minutes to secure a crucial three points.

The game commenced with the Bengal Tigers demonstrating their championship pedigree, employing a high-press strategy that kept Ranchi on the back foot. They won an early penalty corner in the second minute, but failed to convert it.

Ranchi's Sam Lane was active from the start, creating a scoring opportunity in the fifth minute that led to a penalty corner, though his shot was thwarted. Both goalkeepers faced early challenges, with Ranchi’s Suraj Karkera making a significant save in the ninth minute. Despite numerous attempts from both teams, the first quarter concluded without a score.

As the second quarter unfolded, the intensity soared. In the 25th minute, the Tigers broke the deadlock despite being down a player due to a green card. Abhishek launched a powerful shot towards goal, which Ketan Kushwaha—the youngest player in the HIL—skillfully redirected into the net. Ranchi pressed for an equalizer, and captain Tom Boon nearly scored just before the half-time whistle, but James Carr, the Tigers’ goalkeeper, delivered a spectacular save, ensuring the visitors led 1-0 at halftime.

In the third quarter, the Tigers fortified their defense with a five-man backline to maintain their advantage. Ranchi attempted to create space by playing wide, but the Bengal defense stood firm. Although the Tigers had chances to extend their lead through penalty corners, Ranchi’s defensive unit, spearheaded by Manpreet and Yashdeep, held strong. By the end of the third quarter, the Tigers still led 1-0, seemingly poised for a narrow victory.

However, the final quarter was dominated by the home side. The momentum shifted in the 54th minute when Tom Boon intercepted a Tigers player, executed a quick one-two, and delivered a precise reverse hit that leveled the match at 1-1.

This equalizer revitalized the Royals. Just two minutes later, veteran Mandeep Singh (56’) put Ranchi ahead with a goal.

With the Tigers' defense crumbling, Ranchi continued to press. In the 58th minute, Lachlan Sharp scored, extending the lead to 3-1 and effectively sealing the match. As the Tigers struggled to recover, Tom Boon capped off his performance with a second goal in the final minute, culminating in a striking 4-1 comeback.

Sam Lane was awarded Player of the Match for his relentless efforts in midfield and for igniting the Royals' offensive surge. This victory signifies a pivotal moment for the Ranchi Royals as they aim to gain momentum throughout the 2025-26 season.