Ranchi Royals enjoyed a comfortable 5-0 victory over Shrachi Bengal Tigers in their second match of the Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 Season at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium in Ranchi. Lucina von der Heyde (33′, 57′), Hannah Cotter (10′), Beauty Dungdung (14′), and Sangita Kumari (44′) registered goals for Ranchi Royals.
Strong Start for Ranchi Royals
Ranchi Royals began the match on a strong note, controlling possession and creating numerous chances. They made 17 circle entries in the first half, asserting their dominance in attack. In the fifth minute, the Royals earned their first penalty corner but were unable to score, as Sabine Plonissen’s shot was deflected away.
First Goal and Growing Lead
In the 10th minute, Ranchi Royals opened their account with a goal from New Zealand’s Hannah Cotter. Sakshi Rana provided a great pass into the circle, and after a deflection, Cotter slotted it into the net. Shortly after, Shrachi Bengal Tigers secured a penalty corner, but couldn’t capitalize on it.
Ranchi Royals doubled their lead in the 14th minute when Neha won another penalty corner. Lucina von der Heyde’s initial shot was blocked, but Beauty Dungdung showed determination to pounce on the rebound and scored.
Defensive Resilience from Bengal Tigers
The second quarter saw Ranchi Royals maintaining good ball control and creating chances, but Shrachi Bengal Tigers defended resolutely. Jennifer Rizzo made crucial saves towards the end of the first half, denying strong efforts from Augustina Albertarrio and Sakshi Rana.
Third Quarter Breakthrough
In the opening minutes of the third quarter, Ranchi Royals increased their lead again. Lucina von der Heyde dribbled from the left flank, playing the ball to Rutuja Dadaso Pisal on the baseline, who set it back perfectly for Lucina, and her shot took a deflection into the goal.
Further Goals by Royals
Ranchi Royals struck again in the 44th minute. Maria Sofia Darnay found Sangita Kumari in front of goal, who easily slapped the ball into the net, thrilling the home crowd.
Final Quarter Action
Shrachi Bengal Tigers aimed for a consolation goal in the last quarter; however, Ranchi Royals held firm and relied on counterattacks. With just four minutes remaining, the Royals won another penalty corner, converting it with a precise shot from Lucina von der Heyde to secure the fifth goal.
All matches of the Hockey India League will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 3, and DD Sports. The matches will also be live-streamed on Waves and the Hockey India League YouTube channel.