In the opening match of the Women’s Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 season, SG Pipers defeated Ranchi Royals 2-0 at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium in Ranchi yesterday.
The first goal came in the 27th minute when SG Pipers’ captain Navneet Kaur scored with a powerful shot, giving her team the lead. Later, Teresa Viana added a second goal in the 46th minute to seal the win.
Ranchi Royals had a chance early in the game when Rutuja Dadaso Pisal earned the team’s first penalty corner. However, Maria Ortiz’s drag-flick was brilliantly saved by the Pipers’ goalkeeper.
SG Pipers also had several opportunities from penalty corners in the 25th minute, but Lola Riera’s shots were blocked by the Royals’ defence. Finally, Navneet Kaur successfully converted the Pipers’ third penalty corner to score the opening goal of the Women’s Hero HIL 2025-26 season.
The spirited performance by SG Pipers set a strong tone for the new season, showing their strength in both attack and defence.