Hyderabad Toofans clinched a vital 3-2 victory over HIL GC in the Men’s Hockey India League at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium in Bhubaneswar. Zachary Wallace, Amandeep Lakra, and Shilanand Lakra scored for Hyderabad, while Kane Russell netted twice for HIL GC.
In a closely contested match, Hyderabad Toofans took the lead with Wallace’s goal from a penalty corner, quickly equalized by HIL GC through Russell’s dragflick.
Displaying determination, Toofans regained the lead in the first quarter with Amandeep Lakra’s strike from a penalty corner, maintaining a 2-1 advantage.
The Toofans extended their lead in the second quarter as Shilanand Lakra found the net from close range, increasing their lead to 3-1. Despite trailing by two goals, HIL GC continued to press forward, creating chances consistently in the first half.
HIL GC started the second half strongly, with Russell scoring his second goal from a penalty corner to narrow the gap to 3-2. Both teams displayed attacking intent but failed to capitalize on further opportunities.
In a tense final quarter, HIL GC pushed hard for an equalizer but were thwarted by a resilient Toofans defense, securing the win and three crucial points.
With this victory, Hyderabad Toofans have climbed to third place in the points table, staying alive in the tournament, while HIL GC now occupies the fourth position.
