Chennai: Vedanta Kalinga Lancers began their Men’s Hero Hockey India League campaign on a confident note, registering a well-earned 4–2 victory against Ranchi Royals at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium on Saturday.
The match burst into life early, with Tom Boon handing Ranchi Royals the lead in the very first minute through a penalty corner. However, the Lancers showed resilience and composure, quickly turning the tide with a dominant second-quarter performance.
As reported by Hockey India League, Belgian drag-flicker Alexander Hendrickx led the comeback, scoring twice from penalty corners, underlining the Lancers’ efficiency in set-piece situations. Indian forward Gursahibjit Singh added further firepower with two well-taken field goals, ensuring the momentum firmly stayed with the Odisha-based side.
Ranchi Royals did attempt a fightback, with Mandeep Singh finding the net in the ninth minute, but the Lancers’ structured defence and sharp counter-attacks ensured they remained in control for the rest of the contest.
Speaking after the match, Hendrickx expressed satisfaction with the team’s execution, stating that converting early chances helped settle nerves and dictate the pace of the game, as quoted by the Hockey India League.
The win not only gave Vedanta Kalinga Lancers a perfect start but also sent out a clear message about their attacking intent and penalty-corner strength in the tournament.
(Match details and quotes sourced from HockeyIndiaLeague.com)
Discussion about this post