Penny Squibb And Olivia Shannon Secure First HIL Win

Monday evening at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium witnessed a high-intensity clash betweenJSW Soorma Hockey Cluband the Ranchi Royals. In a game defined by defensive grit and clinical finishing,JSW Soorma Hockey Clubemerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline. This victory marks their first win of theWomen’s Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26season, much to the delight of hockey fans across the country.

The match began withJSW Soorma Hockey Clubshowing immediate aggression. Within the opening minute, they earned two consecutive penalty corners. Dragflicker Penny Squibb made the second attempt count, blasting the ball into the net to give her side a 1-0 lead. Squibb wasn't just a threat on offense; she also proved vital in defense by clearing a goal-bound shot off the line just minutes later. While the Ranchi Royals tried to penetrate the circle, the Soorma defense remained impenetrable during the first quarter.

Ranchi Royals stepped up their intensity in the second quarter, dominating possession and creating eleven circle entries. Despite several close calls and three penalty corners, the Soorma backline held firm. The equalizer finally arrived in the 35th minute when Agostina Alonso capitalized on a brilliant run by Hannah Cotter. However, parity was short-lived. Just four minutes later, Olivia Shannon converted a penalty stroke to restore the lead forJSW Soorma Hockey Club.

The final fifteen minutes were a test of nerves. The local Ranchi crowd roared in support of their team as the Royals launched a relentless attack. Despite the pressure and another eleven circle penetrations by the hosts,JSW Soorma Hockey Clubmaintained a disciplined low-block defense. Their resilience paid off, securing the three points. Interestingly, this result also had a major impact on the league standings, as it officially confirmed theSG Pipers' spot in the tournament final.