Hockey India League 2024-25: Resolute Tamil Nadu Dragons clinches win against wasteful Bengal Tigers
Hockey India League 2024-25: Resolute Tamil Nadu Dragons clinches win against wasteful Bengal Tigers
Tamil Nadu Dragons’ solid defence helped it manage a 2-1 win over Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers in a Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 clash at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium here on Friday.
The Dragons got their third win, enabling it to leapfrog the Tigers and take the top spot. The Tigers suffered its second consecutive defeat.
In the goalless first quarter, Dragons raised the tempo and got two short corners in the last few minutes but could not capitalise.
Tamil Nadu did not have to wait for long, though. Inside a crowded ‘D,’ Uttam Singh skillfully supplied the ball from the left goalline with a reverse stick, and Karthi Selvam touched in to provide the breakthrough.
In the last six minutes, the Dragons were down to nine men and even conceded a penalty corner, but its united and calm backline withstood the pressure.
The composure and alertness of captain Amit Rohidas, Chandan Yadav and David Harte saw off some nerve-wracking moments close to half-time.
The Tigers replied strongly, securing two consecutive short corners and eventually a penalty stroke. Rupinder Pal Singh deceived Harte to shoot home to the Irishman’s left.
The Dragons, who had a close shave as Tim Cross’s hit rattled the crossbar, regained its lead as Uttam slotted in a Moritz Ludwig cross that came through Nathan Ephraums’ deflection.
The Tigers constantly pushed to get three more short corners, but the Dragons’ formidable defence, including world-class first rusher Rohidas and seasoned goalkeeper Harte, did not give up.
The Tigers had a golden opportunity to draw parity when it was awarded another penalty stroke in the 44th minute following a successful referral, but Rupinder hit wide to the relief of the Dragons.
The keen tussle continued as Tamil Nadu forward Abharan Sudev’s goal was disallowed in the final quarter.
The Tigers, who paid the price of wasting 12 penalty corners, entered the circle several times but could not get the desired result even though the Dragons played the two minutes with nine men.
