Bengal, Dec 31 : Ranchi Royals registered a commanding 5–0 victory over Shrachi Bengal Tigers in their second match of the Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2025–26 season at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium in Ranchi on Tuesday.
Lucina von der Heyde led the charge with a brace, scoring in the 33rd and 57th minutes, while Hannah Cotter (10′), Beauty Dungdung (14′) and Sangita Kumari (44′) also found the net in a dominant all-round performance by the home side.
Ranchi Royals started on the front foot, controlling possession and creating multiple scoring opportunities. Their attacking intent was evident early on as they recorded 17 circle entries in the first half alone. The hosts earned an early penalty corner in the fifth minute but failed to capitalise as Sabine Plonissen’s attempt was blocked by the first rusher.
The breakthrough came in the 10th minute when New Zealand international Hannah Cotter opened the scoring. Sakshi Rana delivered a precise pass into the circle from the left flank, and Cotter calmly slotted the ball home after a deflection.
Moments later, Shrachi Bengal Tigers earned a penalty corner of their own but were unable to test the Royals’ defence. In the 14th minute, Ranchi doubled their lead from another penalty corner. Lucina von der Heyde’s initial shot was saved, but Beauty Dungdung reacted quickly to bury the rebound.
The Royals continued to dominate the second quarter, using the flanks effectively to create chances. However, Shrachi Bengal Tigers showed resilience in defence, with goalkeeper Jennifer Rizzo making two key saves late in the first half to deny Augustina Albertarrio and Sakshi Rana.
Ranchi Royals struck again early in the third quarter. Lucina von der Heyde (33′) showcased her skill by driving in from the left flank before finishing off a well-worked move involving Rutuja Dadaso Pisal to make it 3–0.
The fourth goal arrived in the 44th minute when Maria Sofia Darnay found Sangita Kumari in front of goal, and the forward made no mistake in converting in front of the home crowd.
Shrachi Bengal Tigers pushed for a consolation goal in the final quarter, but Ranchi Royals remained solid defensively and looked dangerous on the counter. With four minutes remaining, the hosts won another penalty corner, which Lucina von der Heyde converted with a well-placed shot to complete the rout.
All matches of the Hockey India League are being broadcast live on Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 3 and DD Sports, with live streaming available on Waves and the Hockey India League YouTube channel.