Leh’s Nawang Dorjay Stobdan (NDS) Stadium came alive once again on Friday as Day 2 of the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League (REIHL) Season 3 delivered a full spectrum of drama from record-setting strikes and dominant champions to breakthrough women’s performances and high-tempo thrillers.
With teams now settling into the rhythm of the expanded round-robin format, the second day underlined just how competitive and unpredictable this year’s league is shaping up to be.
Maryul Spawo make a strong statement
The day opened with a commanding display from Maryul Spawo, who brushed aside United Nubra 5–1 in a one-sided contest that set the tone for what followed. Spawo wasted no time asserting themselves, with Jigmet scoring inside the opening minute to immediately put Nubra under pressure.
From there, the match became a showcase of Spawo’s attacking depth and discipline. The influential Stanzin trio ran the show, with Stanzin Stanba finding the net twice, while Stanzin Tundup and Stanzin Odan added one each. United Nubra managed a late consolation through Temat Dorjay, but the result was never in doubt. For Maryul Spawo, it was a performance that announced them as a side capable of challenging the established powers this season.
Champions Kangs Sing send another warning
If anyone needed a reminder of why Kangs Sing are the defending champions, their 12–5 demolition of Shakar Chiktan Royals provided it in emphatic fashion. The reigning title holders were simply irresistible going forward, producing the highest-scoring performance of the day.
Captain Karma Rigyal Stein and star forward Stanzin Phuntsog were at the heart of the onslaught, both racking up four goals each in a dazzling attacking display. Sonam Wangail chipped in with two goals, while Dorje Gyaltsan and Tsering Lhundup also found the net as Kangs Sing overwhelmed their opponents with relentless pressure and slick passing.
To their credit, the Royals refused to roll over. Captain Sabir Shah struck a fine hat-trick, supported by goals from Sobir Hussain and Hamid Khan, but the defensive gaps were too large to contain Kangs Sing’s firepower. With two wins from two matches and 18 goals already in the league, the champions have firmly stamped their authority early in Season 3.
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In the women’s competition, Sham Eagles celebrated their maiden win of the season with a composed 4–0 victory over Shakar Chiktan Queens. The Eagles controlled the game from start to finish, combining structured defence with efficient attacking play.
Padma Desal and Tashi Dolkar led the charge with two goals apiece, while Sham Eagles’ backline held its shape superbly to deny the Queens any real chances. It was a clean, confident performance that puts Sham Eagles firmly back in the mix as the women’s league begins to take shape.
Purig Warriors edge Changthang Shans in a thriller
One of the most electrifying games of the day came in the clash between Changthang Shans and Purig Warriors, a fixture that delivered both end-to-end action and a new league record.
Purig’s Sujat Ali made history by scoring the fastest goal of the season, finding the net just 15 seconds after the opening face-off. Changthang responded strongly, with Chamba Tsetan scoring twice, while Rigzin Chosphel and Rinchen Gurmet added further goals to keep the pressure on.
But Purig matched them blow for blow. Villayat Ali struck twice, while Sujat Ali, captain Sajjad Hussain, Kacho Shamshad and Nawaz Ali all got on the scoresheet in a pulsating contest. In the end, Purig Warriors edged home 6–4, in what was arguably the most entertaining game of the day.
Humas Warriors hold their nerve
The final fixture saw Humas Warriors grind out a hard-fought 2–1 win over Sham Wolves. The Wolves struck first through Urgain Chosjor, who buried a sharp wrist shot, but Humas responded calmly. Mohd Issa equalised with a neat tap-in before Mohd Ibrahim produced a powerful wrist-flick to put Humas ahead.
The final period was played at a frantic pace, with Sham Wolves pushing hard for an equaliser and Humas defending with grit and discipline. The Warriors held firm, sealing a valuable win that keeps them firmly in contention.
Beyond the scores and standout performances, Day 2 once again highlighted what the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League has become for Ladakh. More than 1,200 spectators turned up across the day, filling the NDS Stadium with colour, noise and energy. Families, young players and local supporters lined the stands, reinforcing the league’s role as both a competitive sporting platform and a community celebration.
As REIHL Season 3 rolls into the weekend, the excitement is only set to rise. On Saturday, January 31, debutants Kharu Falcons and Kharu Queens will be in action against Changla Blasters and Humas Queens, while Changthang Shans face Humas Warriors before a blockbuster clash between Kangs Sing and Maryul Spawo rounds off the day.
With record goals, statement wins and fierce rivalries already on display, the league is living up to its promise transforming frozen rinks into arenas of high-quality sport and collective pride across the Himalayas.
