The Vedanta Kalinga Lancers registered their maiden victory of the Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 with a commanding 6-0 win over the table-toppers Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela. Thierry Brinkman (3’, 47’), Sanjay (6’), Alexander Hendrickx (9’), Nicolas Bandurak (29’), and Boby Singh Dhami (49’) found the back of the net for the Lancers.
The Lancers, who entered the match winless in three games, stunned the undefeated Tigers with a blistering start, scoring three goals in the opening six minutes. Brinkman’s opener and subsequent penalty corner win set the tone for the home side, with Hendrickx and Sanjay capitalizing early.
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Despite enjoying more possession and circle penetrations, the Tigers struggled to convert their opportunities, thanks to standout performances by goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak, who was named Player of the Match.
Brinkman was instrumental again in the second and third quarters, creating opportunities and scoring his second goal in the 47th minute. Bandurak and Dhami rounded off the tally, with Dhami’s stunning tomahawk shot from the edge of the circle sealing the emphatic victory.
The Lancers’ improved penalty corner conversion rate and clinical finishing impressed coach Valentin Altenburg, while Pathak highlighted the team’s defensive improvements. With this win, the Lancers climbed to fifth in the standings, while the Tigers retained their top spot despite the heavy loss.
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