Defending champions Kang Sings successfully retained their Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League title in the men’s category Monday, overpowering last year’s runners-up, Changthang Shans, with a commanding 5-2 victory.
Captain Mushtaq Ahmed and Stanzin Angchok led from the front, each scoring twice to help their team secure back-to-back championships.
The match kicked off with both teams battling hard to control the puck, but it was the Shans who struck first in the 12th minute when Stanzin Thinles netted a superb goal, assisted by captain Chamba Tsetan, to take a 1-0 lead.
However, Kang Sings responded swiftly in the 15th minute, with Stanzin Angchok scoring a brilliant equalizer, leveling the game 1-1 by the end of the first period. Both teams displayed fierce energy, with penalties handed out to Tsering Galpo and Nurbo Zangpo for foul play.
The second period witnessed Kang Sings seizing the momentum. Captain Mushtaq Ahmed, with assistance from Stanzin Angchok, delivered a spectacular wrist shot in the 23rd minute, giving his team a crucial 2-1 lead.
Despite Changthang Shans’ efforts to equalize, the Sings’ solid defense thwarted their attempts.
Six minutes before the period ended, Stanzin Angchok scored again, completing his double and extending the lead to 3-1.
The final period was intense, with both teams relentlessly fighting for control. Five minutes into the period, Mushtaq Ahmed scored his second goal, pushing the lead to 4-1.
Changthang Shans mounted a late comeback with captain Chamba Tsetan scoring in the 56th minute to bring the score to 4-2.
However, Kang Sings immediately countered with another goal from Stanzin Angchok in the same minute, sealing a decisive 5-2 victory.
With this win, Kang Sings successfully defended their title, emerging as back-to-back champions of the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League men’s category.
“Retaining this championship is a dream come true for our team. It’s not just about the victory but the journey we’ve undertaken together; the hard work, and the unyielding support from our community. This win is for every Ladakhi who believes in the power of ice hockey to unite and inspire,” speaking after the win, Kang Sings’ captain, Mushtaq Ahmed Giri, said.