Amandeep Lakra scores crucial brace in thrilling third-place encounter
Bhubaneswar: Hockey fans at the iconic Kalinga Hockey Stadium witnessed a goal-fest on Monday as Hyderabad Toofans secured the bronze medal in the Men’s Hero Hockey India League (HIL). In a match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats, the Hyderabad side pulled off a narrow 4-3 victory over HIL GC to finish the 2025-26 season on a high note.
Early Setbacks and a Strong Comeback
Although Hyderabad Toofans controlled the pace early in the first quarter with multiple circle entries, they failed to convert their chances. Jacob Anderson saw a golden opportunity miss the mark, allowing HIL GC to seize momentum against the run of play. Sam Ward struck first for HIL GC in the 14th minute, capitalizing on a brilliant setup by Daragh Walsh.
However, the Toofans refused to stay down. The equalizer came in the 24th minute when Nilakanta Sharma unleashed a powerful tomahawk shot past the goalkeeper. Just before the halftime whistle, drag-flick specialist Amandeep Lakra converted a penalty corner, pushing Hyderabad to a 2-1 lead and shifting the pressure back onto HIL GC.
Goal Rush in the Second Half
Coming out of the break, Hyderabad Toofans wasted no time extending their dominance. Jacob Anderson redeemed his earlier miss by slotting home a loose ball in the 33rd minute, making it 3-1. While the defense held strong through the third quarter, the final quarter turned into a chaotic battle for supremacy.
Sam Ward completed his brace for HIL GC in the 52nd minute, tapping in a pass to narrow the gap. Yet, Hyderabad responded almost immediately. Amandeep Lakra fired in his second goal of the match via another penalty corner in the 53rd minute, restoring a two-goal cushion.
Nail-Biting Finish
HIL GC fought until the final second, with Kane Russell scoring from a penalty corner in the 55th minute to make it 4-3. Despite the late scare, the Hyderabad Toofans defense stood tall to deny an equalizer, ensuring they walked away with the third-place honour.
Inputs and Image: HIL
