Odisha Warriors Win Inaugural Women's Hockey India League Title
Ranchi, December 16 (ANI): Odisha Warriors emerged victorious in the inaugural edition of the Women's Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25, defeating Soorma Hockey Club 2-1 in the final at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi today.
The decisive goal for Odisha Warriors came from Rutuja Dadaso Pisal, who scored twice, including a crucial match-winner in the 56th minute. The opening goal was scored by Rutuja in the 20th minute, which Soorma equalized through Penny Squibb's successful penalty-stroke attempt just eight minutes later.
As the match intensified, both teams displayed their skills and intensity, resulting in numerous penalty corners for both sides. However, it was Odisha Warriors who managed to seal the title with a convincing victory over Soorma Hockey Club.
In an earlier statement from IANS, the correspondent mentioned that Odisha Warriors' Freeke Moes made the first circle entry right from the start. The midfielder effectively changed the course of the game as Victoria Sauze looked to pass into the circle but it was deflected high by Rutuja Pisal, who expertly headed the ball into the goal.
Soorma continued to apply pressure, earning a penalty corner in their own half with two minutes remaining in the second quarter. Pennie Squibb stepped up and scored her second goal of the match to bring Soorma back on level terms.
In the third quarter, both teams displayed impressive playing skills but Soorma maintained the high tempo. Charlotte Englebert and Olivia Shannon provided several scoring opportunities for Soorma but could not find the back of the net.
As the game entered its final stretch with eight minutes left on the clock, Odisha Warriors' perseverance began to pay off as Rutuja Pisal scored again, securing her second goal in the match. This was followed by another attempt from Yibbi Janssen from Soorma that was easily denied by defenders of Odisha warriors.
The pressure continued until Odishas warrior team ultimately clinched their victory and claimed the title with two goals but one goal difference