Jugraj Singh rediscovered his scoring touch in spectacular fashion on Tuesday. The star forward, who was the top-scorer in the last Hockey India League season with 12 goals, had managed just one goal in his team's first four matches this year. That lone strike came from a penalty stroke. However, he silenced any doubters with a brilliant hat-trick performance.
A Match-Winning Performance in Ranchi
Jugraj Singh led the defending champions, Shrachi Bengal Tigers, to a crucial 5-3 victory against the Tamil Nadu Dragons. The exciting match took place at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi. His three goals were instrumental in securing only the Tigers' second win in five tournament matches.
Breaking the Deadlock and Seizing Control
Jugraj opened the scoring for Bengal Tigers in the 11th minute with a well-taken stroke. This early goal set the tone for the match. Despite the Dragons' efforts, the Tigers maintained pressure. Sukhjeet Singh extended the lead in the 33rd minute, and Abhishek added another in the 36th minute, putting the Tigers in a commanding position.
The Dragons fought back valiantly. Adrohit Ekka scored in the 36th minute to give his team hope. However, Jugraj Singh took over the game in the final quarter. He demonstrated his penalty corner expertise with two powerful goals in the 43rd and 45th minutes. This remarkable feat made him only the second player this season, after Kane Russell, to score a hat-trick.
Late Drama and Final Result
Tamil Nadu Dragons refused to surrender. Thomas Sorsby found the net in the 48th minute, and Blake Govers scored in the 51st minute. These late goals created a tense finish, suggesting the match might head to a shoot-out. The Tigers' defense held firm under pressure. Abhishek then sealed the victory for Bengal Tigers with a decisive touch to a Tom Grambusch shot from a penalty corner.
Post-Match Reactions and League Standings
After the match, a relieved Jugraj Singh spoke about the importance of converting penalty corners. "We lost three matches because we haven't been able to convert from the PCs, but I have finally been able to do it today and we are very happy," he said. "In the next match too, our focus will be on the PCs because lots of goals are coming from it."
This vital win moves Shrachi Bengal Tigers to fourth place in the league table with six points from five games. The Tamil Nadu Dragons remain in third position with seven points from their five matches.
Looking Ahead to the Next Fixtures
The Bengal Tigers will now prepare to face the Hyderabad Toofans in their next encounter. The Toofans have also experienced a difficult start to the season. Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu Dragons are set for a tough challenge against the second-placed Kalinga Lancers. Both matches promise more exciting hockey action as the league progresses.
