In a crucial Women's Hero Hockey India League (WHIL) encounter, the SG Pipers showcased their championship mettle by coming from behind to secure a 3-1 victory over JSW Soorma Hockey Club on Saturday. The match, held at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi, saw the Pipers maintain their position at the summit of the standings.
Soorma's Early Lead Quickly Erased
The game began at a frenetic pace with both teams exchanging attacks. Against the run of play, it was JSW Soorma who struck first. Penny Squibb, redeeming herself after a missed Penalty Stroke the previous day, expertly converted a penalty corner in the 12th minute to give her side a surprising lead.
The Pipers' response was immediate and relentless. Applying sustained pressure, they earned a series of penalty corners. Their perseverance paid off on the fifth attempt when Spanish defender Lola Riera found the back of the net in the 13th minute, restoring parity before the first quarter ended 1-1.
Jyoti Singh Puts Pipers Ahead Before Half-Time
Carrying the momentum into the second quarter, the Pipers intensified their offensive. The breakthrough came when Junior India captain Jyoti Singh demonstrated sharp instincts inside the circle. Pouncing on a turnover forced by her national teammate Ishika, Singh slotted the ball home from close range in the 18th minute to give the Pipers a 2-1 lead.
Soorma fought valiantly to equalize before the break, creating a penalty corner and a clear one-on-one opportunity for Sonam. However, Pipers' goalkeeper Cristina Cosentino stood tall, producing two superb saves to preserve her team's slender advantage heading into halftime.
Toppo Seals the Deal in Final Quarter
The third quarter saw the Pipers control proceedings but fail to extend their lead. As the final quarter unfolded, the league leaders managed the game intelligently, denying Soorma any clear-cut chances. With time running out, a desperate Soorma replaced their goalkeeper with an extra outfield player.
This tactical gamble backfired spectacularly. Sunelita Toppo seized the opportunity, embarking on a brilliant solo run before calmly firing into the unguarded net in the 58th minute. Her goal sealed a comprehensive 3-1 victory for the SG Pipers.
The result has significant implications for the league table. While the SG Pipers consolidate their top spot, JSW Soorma's winless run continues, all but extinguishing their hopes of finishing in the top two and securing a place in the tournament final. The Pipers' combination of resilience after conceding first and clinical finishing when it mattered most underscored their title credentials.
