HIL 2024-25: Arshdeep’s Heroics Lead Hyderabad Toofans to 3-1 Victory Over UP Rudras

Rourkela, Jan 26 (NationPress) Arshdeep Singh emerged as the decisive player for the Hyderabad Toofans, delivering a stellar performance that saw them secure a convincing 3-1 victory against the UP Rudras in the Men’s Hockey India League match held at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium on Saturday. Arshdeep netted two goals (28', 60’) following Gonzalo Peillat's opener in the 25th minute, while Jobanpreet Singh (40’) brought one back for the UP Rudras.

Earlier, the Hyderabad Toofans earned the first penalty corner of the match thanks to Rajinder Singh in the fifth minute. Peillat took the opportunity but was thwarted by the defense. The UP Rudras had a similar chance when Kane Russell unleashed a goal-bound flick, only for Mukul Sharma to make an outstanding save on the goal-line. Shortly after, Akashdeep Singh had a golden opportunity to give the UP Rudras the lead but was unable to convert, resulting in a goalless first quarter.

The deadlock was broken in the 25th minute when Peillat showcased his skills as one of the world’s top drag flickers. His powerful strike deflected off James Mazarelo’s left glove but still found the back of the net, giving the Toofans a 1-0 lead. They doubled their advantage in the 28th minute when Akashdeep scored a remarkable goal. The 20-year-old displayed exceptional vision to intercept the ball at the edge of the circle, maneuvered past two defenders, and unleashed an unstoppable tomahawk, making it 2-0.

With a comfortable lead, the Toofans sought a third goal when Sam Ward showcased impressive stickwork, controlling an aerial ball and dribbling into the box to win a penalty corner. However, the Toofans were unable to convert, as Mazarelo made several critical saves to keep his team in the game. The UP Rudras fought back with a spectacular goal from Jobanpreet, who found a lifeline. Russell’s drag-flick took a deflection, and Jobanpreet skillfully brought the ball down before firing an incredible slapshot that made it 1-2 in the 40th minute.

The Rudras believed they had found the equalizer in the 50th minute when they opted for a penalty corner variation, allowing Russell to pass to Tanguy Cosyns. The Belgian’s attempt appeared destined for the top corner until Dominic Dixon executed a fantastic diving save to keep the ball out.

Arshdeep sealed the match as he completed a brilliant team play in the final minute. Shilanand Lakra and Zachary Wallace exchanged passes before Wallace delivered a precise ball across the goal, allowing Arshdeep to tap it in and finalize a superb 3-1 triumph for the Hyderabad Toofans.