SG Pipers marked their first win in the Men’s Hockey India League with a dramatic 2-1 triumph against Hyderabad Storm, silencing doubters in a match full of twists. Played on a fast synthetic turf, the game highlighted the league’s growing competitiveness.
Early dominance belonged to Hyderabad, who controlled possession but struggled to breach Pipers’ goalkeeper. The deadlock shattered midway through the first half when Pipers earned a penalty corner. Veteran drag-flicker Amit Rohidas made no mistake, firing into the top corner for a 1-0 lead.
Storm clawed back just before the break, with a swift counter-attack goal from their speedy winger. Tied at 1-1, the second half turned into a chess match of strategies. Pipers’ midfield maestros dictated tempo, forcing errors from the opponents.
Victory was sealed in spectacular fashion: a pinpoint pass found Gurjant Singh, who deflected it past the keeper for 2-1. Hyderabad pushed for an equalizer but Pipers’ backline, led by experienced Jarmanpreet Singh, stood tall.
Post-match, Pipers’ skipper called it a ‘team effort,’ boosting morale ahead of tougher fixtures. This result underscores HIL’s unpredictability, where underdogs can topple giants. Fans are buzzing about the league’s high-octane action.
