Jugraj Singh’s scintillating brace helped Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers bounce back with a commanding 5-3 win over UP Rudras in the Hockey India League at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium on Wednesday. The Tigers, securing their fourth win of the season and breaking a two-match losing streak, climbed to second place in the standings.
The Tigers dominated the game from the outset, showcasing superior possession and circle entries. Gauthier Boccard opened the scoring in the eighth minute with a stunning solo effort, weaving past three defenders before slotting the ball into the net.
Minutes later, Jugraj Singh doubled the lead with a powerful drag-flick, the deflected shot leaving goalkeeper James Mazarelo helpless. The Tigers soon added their third goal, marking the league’s 100th strike, when Sukhjeet Singh capitalized on a rebound after Sebastien Dockier’s reverse hit.
However, the goal sparked controversy, as the Rudras appealed for a stick check, but video umpire Anand Dangi upheld the decision. Floris Wortelboer’s protest earned him a green card, adding to Rudras’ frustrations.
Despite Rudras’ efforts, the Tigers’ defense remained impenetrable. The Tigers continued their dominance in the second quarter, with Jugraj adding a second goal off a penalty corner rebound against substitute goalkeeper Prashant Chauhan early in the second half, extending the lead to 4-0.
While the Tigers missed opportunities to convert two more penalty corners in the third quarter, their defense, led by Jamie Carr, stood firm against Rudras’ repeated attacks.
Abhishek made it 5-0 in the 46th minute, finishing a swift counterattack from Sukhjeet Singh’s assist. However, Rudras rallied late, salvaging some pride with three goals in the final quarter. Hardik Singh converted a penalty stroke after Sam Ward was fouled in the circle, and Ward himself scored twice from penalty corners in the 51st and 59th minutes.
Despite Rudras’ late surge, the Tigers’ early dominance and clinical finishing secured a well-deserved victory.
Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers 5 (Boccard 8, Jugraj 10, 33, Sukhjeet 14, Abhishek 46)
UP Rudras 3 (Hardik 47, Ward 51, 59)
The Tigers’ victory reinforces their title aspirations, while the Rudras will need to regroup quickly to stay competitive in the league.
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