Breaking a string of losses, SG Pipers secured their inaugural win in the Hockey India League by defeating Hyderabad Storm 2-1 in a match that went down to the wire. The electrifying clash exemplified the skill and stamina defining modern field hockey.
Pipers absorbed Hyderabad’s initial onslaught, where Storm’s forwards tested the defense repeatedly. Reward came in the 25th minute: a thunderous drag flick from Suraj Karkera opened the scoring, sending the bench into delirium.
Hyderabad hit back with a sublime team move culminating in a goal, restoring parity. The interval saw heated discussions on tactics. Resurgent Pipers controlled the third quarter, but it was the final frame that decided the outcome.
A moment of magic from midfielder Hardik Singh – a visionary pass – set up the decisive strike by Vinayak Tanaji. Leading 2-1, Pipers defended heroically against Hyderabad’s barrage, including referrals and power plays.
This victory revitalizes Pipers’ season prospects, while Storm reflects on profligacy. League officials noted record viewership, signaling hockey’s rising popularity in India.