Sandeep Sangwan has been the driving force behind the Haryana men’s State hockey team since 2011. His tenure began when the first Senior Men’s Nationals under Hockey India took place. Over the years, Sangwan’s guidance has turned Haryana into a formidable team on the national stage. With two championship titles and a runner-up finish in the last edition, Haryana now eyes another chance at glory. According to Sangwan, this year, the team is determined to overcome past hurdles and claim the championship.
A Strong Lineup and High Hopes
Sangwan has assembled a powerful lineup, blending skill and experience. Strikers like Joginder Singh and Rajant bring an aggressive edge to the team’s offense, while former Olympian Surender Kumar anchors the defense. Sangwan’s confidence stems from this balanced team, which combines seasoned players and emerging talent. He believes this mix gives Haryana the edge needed to take on any challenge.
In their opening Pool-B match at the National Championship in Chennai, Haryana showcased their prowess with a resounding 12-1 win over Himachal. This commanding victory set a strong tone for the tournament, boosting the team’s morale for tougher matches ahead.
Opening Triumph Over Himachal
Haryana’s game against Himachal was a testament to their skill and preparedness. From the start, Haryana took control, dominating every aspect of play. Rajant, Joginder Singh, Yashdeep Siwach, Somjeet, Rohit, Pankaj, and Mandeep Mor all found the net, highlighting Haryana’s depth in offense. Rajant scored five goals, showcasing his remarkable talent and precision. Joginder Singh scored two goals, further reinforcing his role as a top scorer.
While Himachal managed one goal, scored by Ayush in the 30th minute, Haryana’s lead was insurmountable. The team’s strategy, crafted under Sangwan’s guidance, kept Himachal on the defensive for most of the match. This decisive win puts Haryana in a strong position in Pool-B as they prepare to face more challenging opponents.
Other Pool Results: Maharashtra’s Record-Breaking Win
In other Pool results, Maharashtra made headlines with a staggering 30-0 victory over Gujarat, setting a record margin in the championship. Maharashtra’s Pratap Shinde, Aditya Lalage, Venkatesh Devkar, and Ajinkya Jadhav each contributed multiple goals. Their relentless scoring kept Gujarat from making any impact in the game. This victory underscores Maharashtra’s offensive capabilities and signals their intentions for the tournament.
Pool E and F Highlights
In Pool E, Odisha defeated Rajasthan 11-1, with Amandeep Lakra leading the charge with three goals. Matiyas Dang, Ajay Kumar Ekka, Sudeep Chirmako, and Kerobin Lakra contributed to Odisha’s commanding win. Rajasthan’s lone goal came from Vijendra Singh in the 57th minute.
Le Puducherry secured a solid 7-0 victory over Arunachal, with S. Suriya, A. Tamilarasan, Rajat Minz, T. Arun Kumar, and R. Ranjith all scoring goals. This win places Puducherry in a strong position within Pool E.
In Pool F, Kerala won 4-0 against J&K, with M. Nishanth, Premkumar, Teswin Viju, and Mohit Kushwaha scoring for the team. Kerala’s defense kept J&K from finding the net, securing them a comfortable win.
Pool G Highlights
In Pool G, Jharkhand defeated Goa 3-1. Simon Bodra scored twice, with Dilbar Barla adding a goal to secure the win. Goa’s I. E. Palangappa scored a consolation goal in the 50th minute. Jharkhand’s strong performance reflects their potential to challenge top teams in the tournament.
Haryana’s Path Ahead
With their strong opening win, Haryana looks prepared to face the challenging road ahead. Coach Sandeep Sangwan has instilled a winning mentality in the team, focusing on discipline and skill. Haryana’s players have the talent to dominate both offensively and defensively, a balance crucial for tournament success.
Sangwan’s coaching emphasizes adaptability and resilience, qualities essential for navigating the high stakes of national championships. His strategy relies on players who can maintain intensity across the field, whether defending against strong attacks or pressing forward in offense. Haryana’s mix of experienced and emerging talent gives Sangwan the versatility needed to adjust strategies mid-game.
Key Players: Haryana’s Pillars of Strength
Haryana’s lineup boasts standout players crucial to their game plan. Joginder Singh, a top striker, is known for his agility and goal-scoring prowess. His partnership with Rajant, another key scorer, creates a dynamic offense that keeps opponents on edge. Rajant’s five-goal performance in the opener highlights his scoring potential and impact on the team’s success.
On defense, Surender Kumar brings invaluable experience. A former Olympian, Surender’s defensive skills and leadership anchor Haryana’s backline. His ability to read the game and make split-second decisions strengthens Haryana’s defense. Paired with players like Mandeep Mor, Surender’s presence ensures that Haryana remains resilient against offensive threats.
Sangwan’s Vision and Strategy
Sangwan’s approach to coaching is grounded in understanding each player’s strengths and creating strategies that maximize their potential. His focus on fitness, discipline, and teamwork has molded Haryana into a well-rounded team capable of competing with any opponent. Sangwan believes in nurturing young talent while leveraging the experience of seasoned players, a balance that has brought Haryana considerable success over the years.
With two championship titles under his leadership, Sangwan is no stranger to the pressures of national tournaments. His experience allows him to keep the team focused and motivated, especially in high-stakes matches. Sangwan’s goal this year is clear: to secure another championship and bring glory to Haryana.
The Competition: A Strong Lineup of Contenders
Haryana is not alone in its quest for the championship. Teams like Maharashtra, Odisha, and Jharkhand have shown exceptional skill, each aiming to claim the title. Maharashtra’s record-breaking 30-0 win over Gujarat sets them apart as a formidable opponent. Their relentless scoring and defensive strength make them a challenging team to beat.
Odisha, with an 11-1 win over Rajasthan, has also demonstrated a powerful offense. Led by players like Amandeep Lakra and Matiyas Dang, Odisha’s team is well-rounded and focused. They pose a significant threat in the tournament, adding intensity to the competition.
Haryana’s Challenges and Opportunities
As Haryana advances, they must remain prepared for intense matches against strong teams. Sangwan emphasizes mental toughness, urging his players to stay resilient through every game. While Haryana’s opening win boosts their confidence, Sangwan knows that the tournament’s later stages will demand peak performance.
The team’s success relies on consistent execution of their strategies. Haryana’s defense, led by Surender Kumar, must stay strong against high-scoring teams. Offensively, Joginder Singh, Rajant, and other forwards must capitalize on scoring opportunities to maintain their edge.
Conclusion: Haryana’s Journey Toward Glory
Sandeep Sangwan has built Haryana into a championship contender through years of dedication and skillful coaching. His leadership, combined with a talented lineup, positions Haryana as a strong force in the tournament. The team’s opening victory over Himachal reflects their potential, but the path to the championship remains challenging.
With Sangwan’s strategic guidance and the players’ skill, Haryana is well-equipped for the battles ahead. The journey toward the title will require focus, resilience, and teamwork. As Haryana pursues another championship, they carry the hopes of their state and the legacy of their coach, Sandeep Sangwan. The tournament is far from over, but with each game, Haryana inches closer to achieving their ultimate goal.
