HIL 2024-25: UP Rudras Clinch 1-0 Victory Over Team Gonasika

Ranchi, Jan 18 (NationPress) UP Rudras maintained their composure to achieve a tight 1-0 victory against Team Gonasika in the Hockey India League 2024-25 at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Hockey Stadium on Saturday.

This hard-fought triumph propelled UP Rudras to the third position in the points table as phase I of the league concluded today. The team's captain, Hardik Singh, not only led by example but also netted the sole goal, securing the win.

Despite Gonasika starting strong with their forwards making early advances in the initial quarter, they failed to capitalize on a couple of penalty corners. Just when it seemed the first quarter would end in a draw, a critical defensive misstep by Gonasika's captain Manpreet Singh resulted in a penalty stroke awarded to UP Rudras, following a self-referral by the on-field umpire. With under 60 seconds remaining before the first hooter, Hardik Singh confidently converted the chance, giving UP Rudras a vital 1-0 lead.

The subsequent quarter saw Gonasika striving to find the equalizer, with a few opportunities arising from multiple penalty corners. However, their drag-flick specialist Timothee Clement was unable to find the net. Hardik Singh demonstrated impressive skills in midfield, urging his forwards to extend the lead, but the quarter ended without any additional goals.

Entering the third quarter down by a goal, Gonasika was eager to score. Just three minutes in, they earned a penalty corner, but Araijeet Hundal's drag-flick was successfully blocked by Rudras' defenders. As the minutes passed, Rudras showcased superior ball control with elegant dribbling and organized play. In the 42nd minute, Gonasika earned their seventh penalty corner but squandered the opportunity by failing to trap the ball. This quarter too concluded without goals.

The final quarter was charged with energy, highlighted by fierce tackles from Manpreet and Lalit Upadhyay. Both teams displayed a determined effort to secure victory. In the 50th minute, Gonasika earned another penalty corner, yet a goal remained elusive. Manpreet set up Jack Waller for a promising chance, but Rudras defended resolutely to maintain their lead.

With less than five minutes left before the final whistle, Clement attempted a remarkable shot on goal, but James Mazarelo excelled at the goalpost. On course for victory, Rudras fended off a potential equalizer as Gonasika won another penalty corner in the closing moments. They kept their composure, emerging victorious.