Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers edged out Delhi SG Pipers 1-0 in the Women’s Hero Hockey India League 2024-25. The thrilling match took place on Tuesday at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi. Kathryn Mullan’s second-quarter goal proved to be the game-changer, helping the Tigers secure a hard-earned victory.
An Action-Packed Start
From the beginning, both teams displayed high energy and determination. The Tigers were the first to enter the circle, yet Delhi SG Pipers quickly countered. Deepika set up a promising play by passing to Emma Puvrez inside the circle, but the Tigers’ defense intercepted it effectively.
Meanwhile, as the first quarter progressed, Delhi SG Pipers earned two penalty corners. However, Grace O’Hanlon, the Tigers’ goalkeeper, made crucial saves to deny Deepika’s attempts. On the other hand, the Tigers earned a penalty corner in the final moments of the quarter but failed to turn it into a shot on goal.
Mullan’s Decisive Goal
As the second quarter began, Delhi SG Pipers took control of the game. They won an early penalty corner, but Stephanie De Groof’s powerful shot was brilliantly blocked by O’Hanlon. Furthermore, the Pipers kept pressing, with Deepika and Preeti Dubey taking shots, yet the Tigers’ defense held firm.
Then, at the 23rd minute, the Tigers seized an opportunity against the run of play. On a counterattack, Kathryn Mullan received a pass and skillfully lifted the ball over the advancing goalkeeper, Elodie Picard. This goal gave the Tigers a crucial lead, which they worked hard to defend. Despite the Pipers’ late efforts in the quarter, the Tigers maintained their advantage.
Relentless Efforts in the Third Quarter
After halftime, the Pipers intensified their attack. Navneet Kaur looked threatening, both from open play and penalty corners, but she struggled with accuracy. Additionally, the Pipers created several penalty corner opportunities, but the Tigers’ defense, led by O’Hanlon, continued to frustrate their opponents. Towards the end of the quarter, the Tigers managed to regain possession and slow down the Pipers’ momentum.
Tigers Defend Their Lead
In the final quarter, the Tigers balanced their approach by trying to double their lead while showcasing strong defensive organization. Meanwhile, the Pipers found it increasingly difficult to penetrate the Tigers’ circle.
Nevertheless, midway through the quarter, the Pipers launched a final push. They pressed the Tigers into their own half, creating multiple chances and earning several penalty corners. Despite these efforts, neither Deepika nor Navneet Kaur could find the back of the net.
In the end, the Tigers held firm and secured a narrow 1-0 victory. Transitioning between attack and defense seamlessly, they showcased determination and resilience. Kathryn Mullan’s decisive goal and Grace O’Hanlon’s outstanding goalkeeping were instrumental in their win.