Hendrickx strike secures fourth consecutive victory for Odisha franchise
Vedanta Kalinga Lancers have successfully stormed to the top of the points table in the ongoing Men’s Hero Hockey India League 2025-26. In a tightly contested match at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium on Wednesday, the Odisha-based franchise edged past Hyderabad Toofans with a slim 1-0 victory. This win marks their fourth consecutive triumph, keeping their unbeaten streak alive.
Hendrickx Breaks the Deadlock
While the match was a defensive battle for long stretches, the deciding moment arrived in the third quarter. Alexander Hendrickx, the star drag-flicker for the Lancers, found the back of the net in the 40th minute. Converting a crucial penalty corner against the run of play, Hendrickx netted his fifth goal of the season, which eventually proved to be the winner.
A Tense First Half
Earlier in the game, both sides struggled to find rhythm. The first quarter saw equal opportunities, with both teams making circle entries, yet failing to convert. Although Hyderabad Toofans enjoyed the bulk of possession, it was the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers who looked more dangerous on the counter-attack. Liam Henderson nearly gave the Lancers an early lead, but Hyderabad goalkeeper Jean-Paul Danneberg made a vital save to keep the scores level.
As the second quarter progressed, the Toofans increased their pressure, recording 12 circle entries compared to the Lancers' seven. Despite Hyderabad dominating the ball, the closest chance fell to Henderson again, whose powerful strike rattled the post. The first half concluded without a goal, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
Resilient Defense Seals the Win
After taking the lead in the third quarter, the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers shifted their focus to game management. Hyderabad tried desperately to equalize in the final fifteen minutes, controlling possession but failing to break down the Lancers' organized defensive line.
Efficient counter-attacking play allowed the Lancers to register more shots and penalty corners in the dying minutes, comfortably seeing out the game. With this victory, the team has firmly established itself as the team to beat in this year's Hockey India League.
