Women’s HIL 2025-26: Rutuja, Sakshi Shine as Ranchi Royals Defeat Soorma Hockey Club 2-0
Rutuja Dadaso Pisal and Sakshi Rana strike as Royals’ defense holds firm to secure win at Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium.
Ranchi, Jan 3: Ranchi Royals secured a 2-0 victory over JSW Soorma Hockey Club in their Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 clash at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium on Friday. Rutuja Dadaso Pisal (30′) and Sakshi Rana (54′) scored one goal each, helping the Royals dominate the contest.
The match began with both sides displaying solid defensive discipline, limiting clear goal-scoring opportunities. Ranchi Royals maintained more possession, while Soorma Hockey Club made ten circle penetrations in the first 15 minutes, showcasing aggressive attacking intent. Penny Squibb earned early penalty corners for Soorma, but Ranchi Royals’ defense and first rusher consistently denied scoring chances.
The first goal arrived just before halftime. Agostina Alonso delivered a powerful pass from midfield, allowing Rutuja Dadaso Pisal to poach expertly and deflect the ball into the net (30′).
In the third quarter, Soorma Hockey Club threatened through Olivia Shannon and Maria Ortiz, with Ortiz narrowly hitting the post in the 34th minute. Ranchi Royals had another penalty corner at the end of the quarter but failed to convert.
Sakshi Rana doubled the lead in the 54th minute with a spectacular field strike from a tight angle, sealing the 2-0 win. The Royals’ goalkeeper, Bichu Devi Kharibam, kept a clean sheet, including a last-minute penalty corner save against Penny Squibb.
Ranchi Royals’ disciplined defense combined with clinical finishing ensured they left the field with all three points, strengthening their position in the Women’s HIL 2025-26 standings.
