Ranchi (Jharkhand) [India], April 4 (HBTV): Hockey Haryana emerged as champions of the final phase of the National Women's Hockey League 2024–2025 after defeating the Hockey Association of Odisha 3–2 in a closely contested match at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf in Ranchi, Jharkhand on Friday.

In the much-anticipated final of the eleven-day tournament, Hockey Haryana proved to be the stronger side, clinching the title with a 3–2 victory over the Hockey Association of Odisha, according to a Hockey India press release.

Ahalya Lakra (8') opened the scoring for the Hockey Association of Odisha, but Hockey Haryana quickly responded. Kajal (12', 22') scored a brace, while Saavi (44') added another goal for the champions. Despite Odisha’s late push, with Dipika Barwa (54') narrowing the margin, Hockey Haryana’s defence held firm to seal the win.

Hockey Haryana maintained their top position throughout the tournament.

‘Our team, Hockey Haryana, has always been known for playing aggressive hockey and that was the only plan today as well. I asked the team to play freely and attacking hockey. We have played against the Hockey Association of Odisha earlier as well and knew how good they are at converting penalty corners. Our team did well in restricting them today, and that was the game changer,’ said Dilbag Singh, Head Coach of Hockey Haryana.

In the third-place match, Hockey Jharkhand edged past Hockey Madhya Pradesh 1–0 to finish the tournament with a podium spot. Sweety Dungdung (12') scored the decisive goal in the first quarter of the match.

(ANI)