Hero Hockey India League 2024-25: James Mazarelo Shines as UP Rudras Defeat Kalinga Lancers 3-1

James Mazarelo played a crucial role in the UP Rudras’ 3-1 win over Vedanta Kalinga Lancers in their Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 match on Monday at Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela. Despite trailing early, the Rudras made a strong comeback to win the match.

Early Setback for Rudras

The Lancers took the lead in the 13th minute. Enrique Gonzalez scored after a clever pass from Boby Singh Dhami. Although the Rudras dominated possession, their forwards struggled to break through Kalinga goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak.

However, the Lancers found their rhythm midway through the first quarter. Nicolas Bandurak troubled the Rudras’ defense, and Arthur van Doren also had a chance at goal. The breakthrough came when Gonzalez finished Dhami’s pass, giving the Lancers the lead.

Mazarelo’s Saves Keep Rudras in the Game

The Lancers had opportunities to increase their lead. Yet, Mazarelo made key saves to keep the Rudras in the game. He denied shots from Alexander Hendrickx, Partap Lakra, and Thierry Brinkman, preventing further damage.

Despite dominating possession, the Rudras struggled to create meaningful chances. Meanwhile, the Lancers continued to press in the second quarter. Mazarelo’s quick reflexes kept the Rudras within striking distance. At halftime, the Lancers had made 13 circle penetrations compared to the Rudras’ six. Mazarelo had made five first-half saves, keeping the score at 1-0.

Rudras Make Their Move

In the third quarter, the Rudras started to fight back. Mazarelo denied Boby Singh Dhami’s spectacular attempt. Meanwhile, Akashdeep Singh and Manmeet Singh tested Pathak, but the goalkeeper kept the Lancers in the lead. Finally, in the 44th minute, the Rudras equalized. Kane Russell converted a penalty corner, bringing the score to 1-1.

Rudras Take the Lead

Buoyed by the equalizer, the Rudras continued to push forward in the final quarter. Sudeep Chirmako earned a penalty corner in the 46th minute, but Pathak saved it. Then, in the 50th minute, Chirmako deflected Lars Balk’s shot into the goal, giving the Rudras a 2-1 lead.

Lancers Push for Equalizer

Despite their efforts, the Lancers couldn’t find an equalizer. Mazarelo’s brilliance stopped every attempt. In the 54th minute, Thierry Brinkman had a promising chance, but Mazarelo made another crucial save.

With only three minutes remaining, the Lancers took a risk. They removed Pathak for an extra outfield player. The Rudras took advantage of the open goal. Lalit Kumar Upadhyay earned a penalty corner with just 14 seconds left. Kane Russell stepped up and scored his second goal, sealing the win.

Mazarelo Reflects on the Victory

James Mazarelo was named Player of the Match. He said, “It is a massive win just to show that we know that even if we’re down in the game, we’re always in the match and then we can back ourselves to go and score multiple goals.”