Vedanta Kalinga Lancers Edge Ranchi Royals in Tense 4–3 Encounter - Bringing You the Greatest Moments in Sports

Chennai, January 4, 2026:
In another pulsating fixture of the Men’s Hero Hockey India League, Vedanta Kalinga Lancers showcased grit and composure to secure a 4–3 victory over Ranchi Royals, maintaining their perfect start to the season.

The Lancers began confidently, pressing high and forcing early errors. Their efforts paid off in the eighth minute when Dilpreet Singh converted from a penalty corner with a precise drag-flick into the bottom corner.

Ranchi Royals hit back almost immediately. Star striker Tom Boon demonstrated his class in the 11th minute, finding space in the circle and finishing calmly past the onrushing goalkeeper to restore parity.

The match settled into a physical midfield battle, with both teams refusing to concede territory. Vedanta Kalinga Lancers managed to edge ahead before halftime thanks to Rosan Kujur, who capitalised on a defensive lapse and hammered home from close range.

The Royals responded with renewed vigour after the interval. Their persistence bore fruit when Amir Ali levelled the scores once again, tapping in from a well-worked passing move that sliced open the Lancers’ defence.

The turning point arrived midway through the third quarter. Belgian international Arthur Van Doren unleashed a powerful strike from the top of the circle, restoring the Lancers’ lead and injecting fresh belief into the side.

But Ranchi Royals refused to fade. Captain Manpreet Singh stepped up with a trademark drag-flick to make it 3–3, setting up a nerve-wracking final phase.

As the clock ticked down, both teams pushed relentlessly for the winner. With just minutes remaining, Sunil PB emerged as the hero for the Lancers, ghosting into the circle and finishing with precision to seal the contest.

The 4–3 triumph highlighted Vedanta Kalinga Lancers’ resilience and attacking depth, while Ranchi Royals, despite the loss, won admiration for their spirited comeback attempts.