In a stunning display of set-piece precision, HIL GC delivered a masterclass to defeat the defending champions Bengal Tigers 6-3 in the men's Hockey India League on Wednesday. The match, held in Chennai, was decisively shaped by an extraordinary efficiency from penalty corners, a weapon HIL GC wielded with remarkable success.
Russell's Hat-Trick Highlights Penalty Corner Dominance
The cornerstone of HIL GC's victory was their lethal execution of penalty corners, converting at an impressive rate of 66.67%. This figure stands far above the tournament average and proved to be the difference-maker. The architect of this success was Kane Russell, who was in scintillating form.
Russell netted all of his team's penalty corner goals, scoring in the 19th, 36th, and 44th minutes to claim his second consecutive hat-trick. His clinical finishes turned constant pressure into tangible scoreboard advantage, allowing HIL GC to build and maintain a commanding lead.
Mazarelo's Heroics Under Siege
While Russell grabbed the goals, the Man of the Match award rightly went to HIL GC goalkeeper James Mazarelo. From the opening whistle, Mazarelo was under intense pressure as Bengal Tigers aggressively sought an early advantage.
The Tigers recorded a staggering 34 circle entries, more than double that of HIL GC. Mazarelo remained composed, fending off early shots and repeatedly snuffing out dangerous opportunities. His resilience was particularly crucial when the Tigers mounted a comeback attempt in the second half.
GC Holds Nerve to Seal the Win
Bengal Tigers fought back valiantly, reducing the deficit to 3-4 and threatening to overturn the game. However, HIL GC's defence, marshalled by their inspired goalkeeper, held firm. As the reigning champions grew desperate, they sacrificed their goalkeeper with over seven minutes remaining to add an extra outfield player.
This gamble failed to pay off. HIL GC's defence stood tall, repeatedly clearing the danger. Russell completed his hat-trick to extend the lead, and James Albery put the result beyond doubt by scoring in the penultimate minute of the match, completing the 6-3 rout.
The victory underscores HIL GC's transformation into a formidable unit, with a specialised penalty corner routine becoming their signature strength. For the Bengal Tigers, the loss exposes defensive vulnerabilities they must address to retain their championship title.
