Bhubaneshwar, Jan 18 (NationPress) In a thrilling showdown, the Shrachi Bengal Tigers rallied back from a two-goal deficit to clinch a stunning 3-2 victory over the SG Pipers in their concluding pool stage match of the Men’s Hockey India League (HIL) at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Sunday.

Dilraj Singh (4’) and Tomas Domene (31’) gave the Pipers an early lead, but the Tigers fought back fiercely with goals from Jugraj Singh (45’), Abhishek (45’), and Affan Yousuf (48’). This victory keeps the Tigers' hopes alive for a top-four finish and a shot at the title.

The Tigers started strong with precise passing and fluid teamwork, but they were caught off-guard in the fourth minute. The Pipers initiated a brilliant play from the back, with Aditya Lalage advancing to deliver a pinpoint pass to Dilraj Singh, who executed a reverse-hit from close range.

Following this, the Pipers almost doubled their score with a penalty corner, but Sean Findlay blocked it at the post. The Tigers had a golden opportunity in the 14th minute when Christopher Ruhr unleashed a powerful shot from just outside the circle, but it went astray.

The second quarter was characterized by fast-paced action. The Tigers nearly equalized when Findlay found Gursewak Singh open in the circle, but Pawan, the Pipers’ goalkeeper, made a swift save. Again, Pawan showcased his skills just before halftime by deflecting Sukhjeet’s one-handed attempt.

In the third quarter, the Pipers extended their lead with a penalty corner. Tomas Domene unleashed a fierce shot that deflected off Abhishek and found the net. The Tigers pressed on with several penalty corners, yet Pawan stood firm with impressive saves. Ultimately, it was Jugraj Singh who scored in the 45th minute, flicking Abhishek’s injection to keep the Tigers in the hunt.

Moments later, the score was tied. A long pass from Boccard Gauthier was skillfully controlled by Abhishek, whose blistering shot flew past the goalkeeper.

The Tigers completed their dramatic comeback in the fourth quarter. A swift counter-attack in the 48th minute saw Sukhjeet set up Affan Yousuf, who took full advantage of the space to fire it into the bottom corner. The Pipers sought an equalizer, but the momentum remained with the Tigers as they secured a memorable win.