UP Rudras secured an impressive 3-0 win over Soorma Hockey Club in the Hero Hockey India League 2024-25 at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, Rourkela. Sudeep Chirmako opened the scoring in just the second minute with a powerful half-turn strike, giving the Rudras an early advantage. Despite Soorma’s efforts to counter, the Rudras maintained control, forcing their opponents to defend deep. Soorma managed to earn a couple of penalty corners late in the first quarter but failed to capitalize.
The second quarter saw Soorma grow into the game, creating more chances and earning multiple penalty corners. However, the Rudras’ defensive unit, marshaled by Lars Balk and goalkeeper James Mazarelo, thwarted every attempt. UP’s high press continued to keep Soorma under pressure, and their inability to convert chances began to show.
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The Rudras upped the ante in the third quarter, with Sudeep Chirmako turning provider as he set up Jobanpreet Singh to double the lead in the 38th minute. Soorma attempted to press high in response, but the Rudras’ defensive wall remained unbreakable. As the game entered its final stages, Soorma controlled more possession and created a promising chance when Vivek Sagar Prasad found Gurjant Singh in the shooting circle, only for the shot to drift wide.
In the final minutes, UP Rudras launched a counterattack led by Hardik Singh, who set up Akashdeep Singh for a stunning reverse tomahawk goal in the 58th minute, sealing a well-deserved victory. Soorma’s captain, Harmanpreet Singh, attempted to grab a consolation goal via a late penalty corner but failed to find the target.
Next, Tamil Nadu Dragons will face Vedanta Kalinga Lancers on January 3 at 8:15 PM IST, promising another exciting encounter in the league.
Also Read: Soorma Set for a Showdown with UP Rudras in HIL Clash