The Vedanta Kalinga Lancers secured their second consecutive win of the season, defeating Team Gonasika 2-1 in an intense Hero Hockey India League 2024-25 match on Thursday at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela.
Key Scorers
Notably, Antoine Kina (28th minute) and Aran Zalewski (33rd minute) found the net for the Lancers. Meanwhile, SV Sunil (14th minute) scored the lone goal for Gonasika. Consequently, the Lancers moved to third place with seven points, while Gonasika remained in seventh with four points.
Early Pressure and First Goal
To begin with, Gonasika controlled possession and created early opportunities. Eventually, in the 14th minute, SV Sunil opened the scoring. Jack Waller delivered a precise cross into the circle, which Sunil calmly swept past Krishan Bahadur Pathak.
Missed Opportunities
Subsequently, Araijeet Singh Hundal came close to doubling Gonasika’s lead in the 21st minute. Jack Waller’s pinpoint pass found Hundal near the circle, but the forward’s shot missed the target. Earlier, the Lancers failed to capitalize on their penalty corner when Alexander Hendrickx’s drag flick flew wide.
Kina’s Equalizer
In the 23rd minute, the Lancers appeared to have scored through Nicolas Bandurak. However, the umpire disallowed the goal, ruling a raised ball in the buildup despite the TV umpire finding no clear evidence.
Nonetheless, the Lancers equalized in the 28th minute. After a defensive error from Gonasika, Antoine Kina gained possession and struck a powerful shot past Oliver Payne. As a result, the match was tied at halftime.
Zalewski’s Game-Winner
Shortly after the break, the Lancers took the lead in the 33rd minute. Aran Zalewski deflected Hendrickx’s pass into the goal. Due to multiple players obstructing goalkeeper Suraj Karkera’s view, the ball slipped past him into the net.
Defensive Resilience
Later, Gonasika earned a penalty corner in the 43rd minute. However, Struan Walker’s drag flick was brilliantly saved by Pathak. Meanwhile, the Lancers focused on maintaining their defensive structure and denied Gonasika any clear chances in the fourth quarter.
Missed Opportunity to Extend Lead
In the 53rd minute, the Lancers missed a chance to seal the game. Angad Bir Singh displayed exceptional dribbling to beat defenders and set up Dilpreet Singh. However, with an open goal, Dilpreet shot over the bar, leaving the scoreline unchanged.
Final Push and Victory
As the game neared its conclusion, Gonasika pushed hard for an equalizer. Despite their efforts, the Lancers held firm and secured a hard-fought victory.
Overall, this win propelled the Lancers into the top three of the league standings, while Gonasika continues to struggle for form.