HIL Governing Council produced a dramatic finish to beat SG Pipers 3-2 in the men’s Hockey India League on Monday. The match was played at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium. Kane Russell was the star of the night. He scored a hat-trick and sealed the win in the final seconds.
Russell found the net in the 35th and 37th minutes. He then struck again right at the end to complete his hat-trick. His goals turned the match on its head and stunned the Pipers.
SG Pipers had earlier taken control of the game. Ky Willott scored in the 31st minute to give his side the lead. Dilraj Singh then added another goal in the 56th minute. Pipers looked set to walk away with all three points.
Kane Russell turns the game around late
The first half was tightly contested. HIL GC created a few chances but could not score. One big moment came when Sourabh Anand Kushwaha chased a long aerial ball. He showed great control and ran towards goal alone. However, Pipers goalkeeper James Mazeralo rushed out quickly. He closed the angle and made a crucial save.
After the break, Pipers came out with more energy. Their pressure paid off when Willott broke the deadlock. Tomas Domene played a key role in the move. He pulled defenders to one side before passing to Willott, who calmly lifted the ball over the goalkeeper.
HIL GC responded immediately. Russell scored twice in quick time to bring his team back into the match. The stadium came alive as the momentum shifted.
With seconds left on the clock, Russell struck again. His final goal sealed a memorable win for HIL GC. It was a perfect end to a thrilling contest and a night to remember for Kane Russell.
