JSW Soorma Hockey Club concluded their Women's Hockey India League (WHIL) season on a high note, securing a convincing 3-1 victory against the formidable Shrachi Bengal Tigers in their final league match. The Tigers, who had already cemented their place in the tournament final, faced a determined Soorma side playing for pride and a strong finish.
A Spirited Finale for JSW Soorma
The match, held at the Mahindra Hockey Stadium in Mumbai, saw JSW Soorma HC dominate proceedings. They opened the scoring in the 18th minute through a well-executed field goal by forward Rutuja Pisal. Pisal's early strike set the tone for the match, putting the Bengal Tigers on the back foot.
Soorma's momentum continued into the second quarter. They doubled their lead just before halftime when Mumtaz Khan found the back of the net with another field goal in the 28th minute. This two-goal cushion gave Soorma significant confidence as they headed into the break.
Bengal Tigers Fight Back, But Soorma Seals the Deal
The Shrachi Bengal Tigers, a team known for their resilience, regrouped and came out stronger in the third quarter. Their efforts paid off when Sunelita Toppo managed to pull one back for the finalists with a field goal in the 38th minute. This goal reignited the contest and suggested a potential comeback was on the cards.
However, JSW Soorma HC effectively shut down any hopes of a Tigers revival. They restored their two-goal advantage in the very next quarter. Deepika Soreng put the result beyond doubt by converting a crucial penalty corner in the 49th minute, bringing the final score to 3-1 in favor of Soorma.
Season Wrap-Up and Final Standings
This victory served as a positive end to the WHIL campaign for JSW Soorma Hockey Club. While they did not qualify for the championship final, this win against one of the league's top teams demonstrated their potential and competitive spirit. The team showcased strong defensive organization and clinical finishing in their season finale.
For the Shrachi Bengal Tigers, the loss did not affect their standing, as they had already qualified for the ultimate clash. Their focus remained squarely on the upcoming final, where they were set to face Sethu FC for the prestigious WHIL title. The final promised to be a thrilling encounter between two of the league's most consistent performers.
The inaugural season of the Women's Hockey India League has been pivotal for the growth of women's hockey in the country, providing a vital platform for emerging and established talent to compete at a high level. Matches like this final league encounter highlight the depth of skill and the bright future of the sport in India.
