Humas Warriors produced a clinical final-period comeback to defeat Purig Warriors 3–1 and lift the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League Season 3 men’s title at the Nawang Dorjay Stobdan (NDS) Stadium in Leh on Friday.
In a contest that remained finely balanced through two periods, goals from Mohd Issa, Ghulam Nabi Tak and Waseem Bilal in the final 20 minutes turned the tide in Humas’ favour and ensured a championship finish to a season in which they had already topped the league standings.
The men’s triumph for Humas Warriors followed Sham Eagles’ victory in the women’s category earlier in the week, with Purig Warriors and Shakar Chiktan Queens finishing as runners-up in their respective divisions.
A Final Decided by Patience and Precision
The opening period reflected the tension of a championship clash. Humas set the early tempo, pressing high and forcing Purig goalkeeper Irfan Ali into multiple saves. Waseem Bilal tested him inside the opening minute, while Shahid Shabir and captain Moheb Ur Rehman Mir continued to probe from the flanks.
At the other end, Humas goalkeeper Iftiqar Hussain was equally alert, denying Purig’s counterattacks as both teams battled for territorial control. Despite the intensity, the first period ended goalless.
Purig broke the deadlock midway through the second period. After Hilal Ahmad struck the post, Kacho Shamshad capitalised on a rebound opportunity, flicking the puck into the top-left corner in the seventh minute. The goal shifted momentum briefly in Purig’s favour, and they looked to extend their lead with sustained pressure.
However, Humas remained composed. Iftiqar Hussain produced key saves to prevent further damage, keeping his side within striking distance heading into the final period.
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The decisive phase began in the eighth minute of the third period. Mohd Issa carried the puck from the neutral zone before finishing clinically into the top-right corner, levelling the score at 1–1. With confidence restored, Humas intensified their attack. In the 12th minute, Ghulam Nabi Tak converted a powerful slap shot from Moheb’s assist, giving Humas their first lead of the match.
Purig pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but defensive discipline and structured transitions worked in Humas’ favour. The title was effectively sealed in the 18th minute when Waseem Bilal tapped in a rebound after Shahid Shabir’s effort was blocked, completing the 3–1 comeback and triggering celebrations among the home supporters.
Individual Brilliance Recognised
Shahid Shabir was named Player of the Men’s Final for his influence in key moments, while Waseem Bilal finished the tournament as the men’s top scorer with 18 goals in 14 matches a return that underscored his importance throughout the campaign.
In the women’s category, Padma Desal of Sham Eagles was adjudged Player of the Final and also claimed the Top Scorer award with nine goals over the season.
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The closing ceremony reflected the League’s expanding stature in Ladakh’s sporting calendar. Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Kavinder Gupta, felicitated the winners and runners-up. The champions received Rs 2.5 lakh in prize money, while the runners-up were awarded Rs 1.5 lakh.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised the importance of sustained infrastructure development and grassroots engagement in strengthening winter sports across the Union Territory. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to expanding facilities and encouraging youth participation.
Bidisha Dey, Executive Director of the Eicher Group Foundation, highlighted the League’s broader impact. With over 34,000 spectators attending matches during the season, she noted that the improvement in competitive balance and performance standards reflected the success of long-term grassroots programmes.
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The evening featured cultural interludes, including performances by the Ladakh Dance Academy and hip-hop artist Buda Gyatso, underscoring how the League has evolved into both a sporting and community celebration. Captain Moheb Ur Rehman Mir credited teamwork and patience for the victory.
“Purig Warriors made it a tough final. We trusted each other and waited for the right moments. Winning the league stage is one thing, but lifting the title takes collective effort,” he said after the match.
Spanning regions from Leh and Nubra to Changthang, Sham, Kharu, Drass, Kargil and Zanskar, Season 3 of the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League showcased increasing depth and competitiveness across Ladakh’s ice hockey landscape.
As the curtain falls on another successful season, Humas Warriors’ disciplined comeback in the final stands as a testament to resilience and tactical maturity hallmarks of a league that continues to grow in stature and ambition.
