Bhubaneshwar, Jan. 23 -- Vedanta Kalinga Lancers booked their spot in the final of the Men's Hero Hockey India League (HIL), securing a 2-1 win against Ranchi Royals at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Friday. Alexander Hendrickx bagged a brace to give his side a 2-0 lead before Mandeep Singh pulled one back for the Royals.
Ranchi Royals began the game on the front foot, keeping possession and moving the ball around neatly to make inroads. Having sustained the early pressure by staying steady at the back, Vedanta Kalinga Lancers grew into the game and eventually broke the deadlock after Alexander Hendrickx (12') converted his dragflick from a penalty corner, giving his side a 1-0 lead in the first quarter.
The Royals pushed forward in search...