Sonam stars as JSW Soorma triumphs in Ranchi hockey
JSW Soorma Hockey Club wrapped up their journey in the Women’s Hero Hockey India League on a high note, securing a hard-fought 3–2 victory over finalists Shrachi Bengal Tigers. Despite the match being a dead rubber, the energy at Ranchi’s Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium was electric as both teams fought for pride and momentum.
From the opening whistle, Soorma showed they were not ready to leave without a fight. Olivia Shannon and captain Salima Tete kept the Tigers’ defense on their toes with aggressive pressing. The breakthrough arrived in the 10th minute when Sonam bundled the ball into the net, giving Soorma an early 1-0 lead. This momentum carried them through the first half, where they maintained a disciplined defensive line to thwart the Tigers' counter-attacks.
The second half saw a shift in intensity as the Shrachi Bengal Tigers pushed hard for an equalizer. Agustina Gorzelany, the league’s top scorer, finally leveled the score at 1-1 with a powerful penalty corner strike in the third quarter. However, Soorma refused to settle for a draw and responded with clinical precision.
In a frantic fourth quarter, Soorma regained control within seconds. Penny Squibb and Maria Granatto both found the target from penalty corners, stretching the lead to 3-1 and stunning the Bengal defense. While the Tigers managed a late goal through Lalremsiami to bring the score to 3-2, Soorma’s defense held firm until the final buzzer.
Sonam earned the Player of the Match award for her clinical performance and electric energy on the field. While the Tigers now prepare for the championship final, JSW Soorma exits the Women’s Hero Hockey India League with their heads held high, proving their mettle against one of the tournament's top teams.
