Shrachi Bengal Tigers produced a performance full of character and composure to edge past SG Pipers in a dramatic Women’s Hero Hockey India League 2025–26 clash, winning 4–3 in a shootout after the two sides were locked at 3–3 at the end of regulation time.
In a contest that swung repeatedly and went right down to the final seconds, Lalremsiami emerged as the hero in sudden death, calmly converting to earn her side a crucial bonus point in Ranchi on Wednesday.
Agustina Gorzelany struck twice from penalty corners in the first half (6’, 18’) and Lalremsiami added a fine field goal (11’) as the Tigers looked in control for large parts of the game. However, SG Pipers showed remarkable resilience, with Lola Riera (10’, 60’) and Sunelita Toppo (59’) orchestrating a stunning late comeback that forced the match into a shootout.
The Tigers began the match with intent, pressing high and forcing early circle entries as they looked to assert control. SG Pipers absorbed the initial pressure well, responding with quick passing through midfield to test the Tigers’ defensive structure. The early breakthrough came when Shrachi Bengal Tigers earned successive penalty corners, and Gorzelany made no mistake with the second, firing home in the sixth minute to give her side the lead.
SG Pipers’ response was swift and decisive. They won a penalty corner of their own moments later, and Spanish forward Lola Riera showcased her experience with a precise strike in the 10th minute to bring the scores level. The momentum, however, swung back quickly in favour of the Tigers. Lalremsiami found space inside the circle and produced a deft deflection in the 11th minute, restoring Shrachi’s advantage and closing the opening quarter at 2–1.
The second quarter saw the Tigers tighten their grip on the contest. Gorzelany struck again in the 18th minute, converting another penalty corner to make it 3–1. The goal underlined Shrachi’s efficiency from set-pieces and gave them a two-goal cushion heading into the latter stages of the half. SG Pipers pushed hard in response, creating multiple attacking opportunities, but Tigers goalkeeper Jennifer Rizzo stood firm. Her sharp reflexes and strong positioning denied the Pipers on several occasions, ensuring Shrachi went into half-time with a comfortable lead.
SG Pipers returned after the break with renewed urgency. They dominated possession early in the third quarter and earned a penalty corner, but once again failed to capitalise. The Pipers continued to probe with repeated circle entries, keeping the Tigers pinned back for long spells. Despite the sustained pressure, Shrachi’s defence remained disciplined, and Rizzo continued to marshal her backline effectively. The third quarter ended goalless, with the Tigers still holding on to their 3–1 advantage.
The final quarter followed a similar pattern, with SG Pipers dictating the tempo and searching relentlessly for a way back into the game. Their persistence finally paid off in dramatic fashion in the closing minutes. With just over two minutes remaining, the Pipers earned a crucial penalty corner. Captain Navneet Kaur unleashed a powerful effort that was expertly deflected by Sunelita Toppo in the 59th minute, reducing the deficit to a single goal and igniting belief on the Pipers’ bench.
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The pressure intensified in the dying seconds, and SG Pipers were rewarded with a penalty stroke after a frantic sequence inside the circle. Lola Riera stepped up under immense pressure and showed nerves of steel, calmly converting in the 60th minute to complete a remarkable comeback and force the match into a shootout.
The drama continued in the shootout, with both teams matching each other attempt for attempt. Three successful conversions apiece meant the contest remained deadlocked, pushing the game into sudden death. In the decisive moments, SG Pipers failed to find the net on two opportunities, while Lalremsiami stepped forward with composure beyond her years. She converted her chance clinically, sealing a 4–3 shootout victory and securing the bonus point for Shrachi Bengal Tigers.
The win was a testament to Shrachi Bengal Tigers’ ability to execute under pressure, particularly from penalty corners and in decisive moments, while SG Pipers will draw confidence from their fighting spirit and late resurgence. In a league where margins are increasingly fine, this contest served as a reminder of the intensity and quality that continues to define the Women’s Hero Hockey India League.
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All matches of the Hero Hockey India League are broadcast live on Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 3, and DD Sports, with live streaming available on Waves and the Hockey India League YouTube channel.
