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TheAcademy . 22/10/2024 6:23 PM
The Railway Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) emerged victorious in the Senior Women Inter-Departmental National Hockey Championship final, defeating Indian Oil 3-1. Held at the prestigious Major Dhyanchand National Stadium, this victory marks a redemption for Railways, who had faced defeat at the hands of Indian Oil in last year’s final.
Indian Oil started strong, taking the lead in the 18th minute with a well-placed shot from Deepika. However, the joy was short-lived, as Vandana Katariya, India’s most capped player, quickly responded by equalizing just a minute later, showcasing her experience and sharp instincts on the field.
The match remained fiercely contested until the fourth quarter, when Railways’ captain Navneet Kaur capitalized on an opportunity to put her team ahead. The momentum continued to shift in Railways’ favor as Salima Tete sealed the win with a decisive goal, earning the title of Player of the Match for her stellar performance.
Vandana Katariya: Known for her versatility and leadership, Vandana’s equalizer right after Indian Oil’s opening goal was pivotal in keeping Railways in the game. Her ability to rise under pressure has made her a key asset for the team.
Navneet Kaur: As the captain, Navneet’s leadership shone through, particularly with her go-ahead goal in the final quarter. Her ability to rally her team in crucial moments was evident, making her performance stand out.
Salima Tete: Tete’s final goal solidified the win for Railways, and her overall impact on the game earned her the well-deserved Player of the Match title. Her speed and tactical intelligence allowed Railways to maintain control in key moments of the match.
In the bronze medal match, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) triumphed over the Sports Authority of India (SAI) in a thrilling penalty shootout. After a goalless 60 minutes of regulation time, CBDT secured the win 3-2 in penalties, highlighting their resilience and tactical precision in high-pressure situations.
Railways’ win in this final reflects not only the team's skill but also their determination to avenge last year’s defeat. Throughout the tournament, the team exhibited superior coordination, with standout performances from their key players and a well-executed game plan. The inclusion of players like Vandana Katariya and Salima Tete provided Railways with the necessary experience and dynamism to overcome tough competition.
Despite their loss, Indian Oil showcased strong play throughout the tournament. Deepika’s opening goal in the final demonstrated their offensive capabilities, but Railways’ quick equalizer halted their momentum. Indian Oil will look to regroup and return stronger for next year’s championship, building on the positives from this year’s campaign.
With this win, Railways has once again solidified its status as a dominant force in women’s hockey. The team’s blend of seasoned players and emerging talents positions them as a formidable contender in future competitions. Meanwhile, the close matches throughout the championship reflect the growing competitiveness of women’s hockey in India, a trend that bodes well for the sport’s development at both national and international levels.
This victory not only avenges last year’s loss but also highlights Railways’ strategic growth and the evolving landscape of inter-departmental hockey. Fans can expect an even more intense competition in the upcoming editions as teams like Indian Oil and CBDT continue to challenge for the top spot.
