Ranchi, 14th January 2025: JSW Soorma Hockey Club are ready for their second match in the Women’s Hero Hockey India League where they face Odisha Warriors at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium, Ranchi, on January 15. Soorma head into the clash with confidence, having secured three points in their opener against Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers. Ahead of their next fixture, Head Coach Jude Menezes praised the team’s first outing, highlighting that speed is their biggest asset.
Soorma defeated the Tigers 4-1, with Olivia Shannon (38’), Charlotte Englebert (42’), Salima Tete (44’), and Sonam (47’) opening their accounts for the season. Reflecting on the match, Menezes said, “I think we were a bit scratchy in the first few quarters, and we could have put away a few more chances. At half-time we were confident, because we were creating opportunities, and in the third quarter, we scored three goals, and that showed what we are capable of and what kind of striking power we have.”
He added, “I think we also never gave up, we showed our ‘Soorma Spirit,’ and we showed our composure. Composure will take us a long way in the competition.”
On team composition, Menezes commented, “We have got a good balance in our team in terms of attack and defence. I wouldn’t say we’re complacent, though, because we still have a long way to go and still have work to do.”
Odisha Warriors have also begun their season with a 4-0 win over Delhi SG Pipers. Looking ahead to the Odisha Warriors clash, he noted, “They are certainly a very strong team, like all the teams in the tournament. I think they will be strong in Penalty Corners, so we have to defend well. We have to minimize that while maximising our outputs.”
On Soorma’s strengths, Menezes remarked, “Our strength is our speed. We want to play fast and exciting hockey. Our strength is also our courage and our cohesion, but our primary strength is our speed.”