Hikers and Old Fort record first victories
IN a clash of last year’s top finishers, the Hikers upset defending champions GCC in their opening clash of the John Fernandes Insurance Services Ltd Second Division Hockey League. Brandford scored in the 9th minute for the Hikers which took his team’s score to 2-0 following a Shaquille Assanah opening goal.
Coming from behind for most of the match, GCC drew even with the Hikers at 2-2 in the 48th minute only to concede the winning goal to the Hikers’ Aroydy Branford just one minute later.
GCC’s Mark Sargeant and Steven Xavier led the comeback for GCC in the 25th and 48th minutes but fell just shy of the desired target leaving the Hikers to emerge with a 3-2 victory.
Old Fort seemed a much improved side this year as they took the field against the national ladies squad.  With veteran Dexter Wyles returning to marshal the midfield and skilful Jason DoSantos launching a foray of attacks, Old Fort seemed to be definite contenders for the title.
The National ladies squad playing as the Airbenders enjoyed good build-ups and possession in the first 20 minutes of the game.
Old Fort seemed to settle, however, and got into their own rhythm which produced their first goal just before the half as Alysa Xavier saved the first shot of a penalty corner but Onasis Fraser was there for the put back.
As the teams seemed to tire in the second half, the speed advantage of Old Fort saw them take control of the game and extend their lead to 2-0 when Deon Carew swept another rebound into the net.
Matches continue on Saturday at the St Stanislaus College ground with the newly formed Saints Club facing the All Greys at 14:30hrs and Old Fort versus Hikers at 16:00hrs.
On Sunday at the same venue GCC clash with Saints at 14:30hrs while All Greys will meet the Airbenders at 16:00hrs.