SG Pipers continued their perfect start to the second edition of the Women's Hockey India League (WHIL), securing a narrow but significant 1-0 victory over Soorma Hockey Club in Ranchi on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. The win marks their second consecutive triumph, a stark contrast to their single outright win in the league's inaugural season.
Captain Fantastic Delivers Again
The match was decided by a moment of individual brilliance from the SG Pipers captain, Navneet Kaur. Capitalizing on a miscontrol by Soorma defender Shihori Oikawa high up the pitch, Kaur seized possession and embarked on a breathtaking solo run. The Indian vice-captain, who had expressed her desire to play with more freedom and score more goals this season, dribbled the length of the field, evaded the last defender with a shift to her right, and unleashed a powerful shot that beat the experienced goalkeeper Savita Punia.
Soorma's Frustration Continues
For Soorma Hockey Club, led by Salima Tete, the result was a case of frustrating déjà vu. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, they failed to find the back of the net. In their opening match against Bengal Tigers, they had 28 circle entries and 13 Penalty Corners without scoring. Against the Pipers, the problem persisted as they managed a staggering 35 circle entries but lacked the crucial final touch. Their attacks repeatedly broke down in the final third, with rushed plays preventing them from converting their dominance into goals.
Savita's Heroics Deny Navneet a Brace
The scoreline could have been more comfortable for the Pipers had it not been for a spectacular piece of goalkeeping from Savita Punia late in the game. In the final quarter, as Soorma pushed forward for an equalizer, spaces opened up in their defence. Pipers' speedy Indian internationals, Sharmila Devi and Sunelita Toppo, combined to send Navneet Kaur through on goal with only the keeper to beat. In a decisive move, Savita read the danger early, rushed out, and executed a perfect stick tackle to sweep the ball away, denying Kaur a second goal and keeping her team in the contest until the final whistle.
This victory solidifies SG Pipers' strong early position in the WHIL, showcasing a resilient defence led by a standout performance from their captain in attack. For Soorma, the search for a clinical finish in front of goal becomes the immediate priority after two matches of prolific circle penetration with no reward.
