In one of the most lopsided encounters of the Hockey India League (HIL) so far, UP Rudras secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Soorma Hockey Club on Wednesday. The win, their second outright triumph, propelled UP to the top of the table with six points, alongside Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers. Soorma, meanwhile, remained at two points, with their profligacy and defensive lapses costing them dearly.  

UP Rudras struck early, with Sudeep Chirmako capitalizing on a rebound in just the second minute. The early setback rattled Soorma, who pressed forward aggressively but failed to convert opportunities, especially from penalty corners (PCs). The absence of Harmanpreet Singh in key moments hurt Soorma’s ability to capitalize on their chances.  

UP, however, executed their game plan flawlessly, with Hardik Singh leading the charge. His tireless playmaking through the midfield created continuous threats, allowing the Rudras to dominate possession and orchestrate attacks.  

The Rudras doubled their lead in the third quarter when Floris Wortelboer’s aerial cross found Chirmako near the baseline. His pass was expertly deflected into the net by Jobanpreet Singh in the 38th minute. India veterans Lalit Upadhyay and Akashdeep Singh then took charge, combining their experience with the youthful energy of players like Gurjot Singh and Chirmako.  

Akashdeep sealed the match in the 57th minute, slapping the ball into an empty net after Hardik Singh’s brilliant solo effort carved through Soorma’s defense.  

Despite earning 10 penalty corners, including four consecutive chances and two in the dying moments, Soorma failed to breach the Rudras’ defense. Goalkeeper James Mazarelo and first rusher Lars Balk were exceptional, denying any opening to Harmanpreet Singh, who took six of the PCs.  

UP Rudras’ flawless start to the tournament reinforces their title credentials, while Soorma will need to regroup quickly and address their finishing woes to stay competitive in the league.  

Result: UP Rudras 3 (Sudeep Chirmako 2, Jobanpreet Singh 38, Akashdeep Singh 57) bt Soorma Hockey Club 0.