Soorma Hockey Club maintained their strong start in the Women’s Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 with a 2-1 victory over Odisha Warriors at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium, Ranchi. Hina Bano (6’) put Soorma ahead early, and Sonam (47’) extended the lead in the final quarter. Although Freeke Moes (57’) scored late for the Warriors, it wasn’t enough to alter the result.
Odisha Warriors began with intent, with Baljeet Kaur creating early pressure and forcing a save from Soorma goalkeeper Savita. However, a swift counterattack by Ajmina Kujur on the left wing set up Hina Bano, who deflected the ball past Jocelyn Bartram for the opening goal. The Warriors almost responded through a penalty corner, but Ishika Chaudhary couldn’t capitalize. Freeke Moes came close to leveling the score late in the first quarter, but her shot went wide.
The second quarter saw end-to-end action as both teams pushed forward. Soorma created better opportunities but lacked a clinical finish. Freeke Moes earned a penalty corner for the Warriors, but Claire Colwill’s attempt was thwarted by Savita and her defense. Freeke’s runs down the right wing kept Soorma’s defenders on alert, but clear chances remained elusive.
In the third quarter, Soorma’s Salima Tete and Sonam posed significant threats, with Salima winning a penalty corner early on. However, Penny Squibb’s shot was deflected wide. Salima continued to lead attacking plays but couldn’t find a decisive pass. Meanwhile, Freeke remained the Warriors’ standout player, earning another penalty corner, but Yibbi Jansen’s flick was expertly saved by Savita.
Early in the fourth quarter, Soorma capitalized on a counterattack when Charlotte Englebert’s cross found Sonam, who skillfully doubled the lead. The Warriors pressed hard, linking passes to create opportunities, and were rewarded when Freeke intercepted high up the pitch and smashed a reverse shot past Savita. Despite their late push, the Warriors couldn’t find an equalizer, and Soorma secured their second win of the campaign.