Shrachi Bengal Tigers clinched a thrilling victory over SG Pipers, winning 0-0 (7-6 SO) in a gripping encounter during the Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26. The match ended in a goalless draw in regulation time, leading to a sudden-death shootout that saw the Tigers emerge victorious, securing their place in the league final.
In a repeat of their previous meeting, the match unfolded similarly, ultimately going down to sudden death. This victory was crucial for the Tigers, as it not only earned them a bonus point but also confirmed their spot in the summit clash.
For SG Pipers, the match was a dead rubber, having qualified for the Women’s HIL 2025-26 final ahead of this game due to their commanding lead at the top of the points table.
Match Highlights
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The opening quarter showcased an end-to-end contest, with both teams exchanging early attacks.
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The Tigers were awarded a penalty corner within the first three minutes but failed to capitalize. SG Pipers quickly took control, creating several circle entries that tested the Tigers’ defence. Despite the chances, the first quarter ended goalless at 0-0.
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In the second quarter, the Shrachi Bengal Tigers applied pressure on the Pipers’ defence, earning another penalty corner. However, goalkeeper Bansari Solanki was in excellent form, making several key saves to keep the scoreline intact. The half-time break saw no goals, with the score remaining 0-0.
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The Tigers’ relentless pressing continued into the third quarter, leading to a golden opportunity for Vandana Katariya. Her close-range shot was thwarted by another fantastic save from Solanki. SG Pipers also attempted some attacks, but the third quarter concluded still tied at 0-0.
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Early in the fourth quarter, Tigers’ captain Lalremsiami had a one-on-one chance but was denied by Solanki once again. The Tigers maintained their attacking intensity with repeated forays into the circle but found it challenging to break through. In the final minutes, the Pipers increased their attacking efforts but could not generate a clear chance. With just eight seconds remaining, the Tigers earned a late penalty corner but failed to convert, sending the match into a shootout.
Shootout Drama
During the shootout, Shrachi Bengal Tigers saw goals from Purnima Yadav and Noor de Baat, while SG Pipers successfully converted attempts from Juana Castellaro and Kaitlin Nobbs, leading to a 2-2 tie.
In sudden death, the Tigers converted all five of their attempts while the Pipers managed four from five. This shootout win secured a vital bonus point for the Shrachi Bengal Tigers and ensured that they would meet SG Pipers again in the title match on January 10.