Ranchi- Kalinga Lancers climbed to the top of the Men’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2025–26 standings after edging past HIL GC 3–1 in a shootout, following a 1–1 draw at the end of regulation time, at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium on Sunday.
Ajeet Yadav (19’) and Alexander Hendrickx (23’) were on target for their respective sides during regulation time. Notably, Kalinga Lancers delivered a disciplined defensive performance, conceding no penalty corners throughout the match.
HIL GC dominated the opening phases, enjoying greater possession and spending extended periods in the Lancers’ half. Despite making six circle entries, they struggled to fashion clear-cut chances. Kalinga Lancers, however, held their shape well and looked dangerous on the counter, also registering six circle entries. They earned the first major opportunity of the game through a penalty corner but failed to convert, with the opening quarter ending goalless.
After a cautious first quarter without a shot on target from either side, HIL GC broke the deadlock in the second quarter with their first effort on goal. Captain Hardik Singh initiated the move from midfield before Ajeet Yadav (19’) finished from close range. The Lancers responded strongly, mounting sustained pressure with multiple shots and six penalty corners in quick succession. Their persistence paid off when Alexander Hendrickx (23’) unleashed a powerful drag-flick to beat goalkeeper James Mazarelo, ensuring the teams went into half-time level.
The second half mirrored the first, with HIL GC controlling possession and probing patiently for openings. Kalinga Lancers remained a constant threat on the break, coming close through Hendrickx, only for Mazarelo to produce a fine save. The third quarter saw end-to-end action, but neither side could find a decisive breakthrough.
Both teams pushed for a winner in the final quarter, though chances were limited. HIL GC managed three circle entries, while the Lancers had two, but neither side registered a shot on target, forcing the contest into a shootout.
The shootout proved dramatic, with both goalkeepers—James Mazarelo and Jed Snowden—making crucial saves. After each conceded on the opening attempts, the next two shots were kept out. Arthur Van Doren converted calmly for the Lancers, while Ajeet Yadav missed for HIL GC, allowing Dilpreet Singh to seal the win and secure top spot for Kalinga Lancers.
With inputs from IANS