St Joseph Girls Kitale hockey players celebrate with after winning during the Brookside Secondary School games in Kisumu. [Washington Onyango,Standard]
Reigning champions St Joseph’s Girls Senior School Kitale on Friday led from the front as Kenyans made their intentions to retain the Federation of East Africa Schools Sports Association (FEASSA) hockey title known here in Morogoro, Tanzania.
St Joseph’s, popularly known as JOGA, who are looking to successfully defend their title and extend their reign to three years in a row, showed no respect for their hosts, Benjamin Mkapa Secondary School, thrashing them 4-0 in their opening Group A match.
The Kenyans had a great day in office as they dominated the home team, with Salome Ayoo bagging a brace for JOGA, who are also keen to end 2026 on a high having won their first national trophy in Kisumu this year.
Vallarie Imisa and Cherish Kamimi netted one goal apiece for JOGA, who face off today with their Ng’iya Girls compatriots in the hunt for a second win and a place in the semi-finals. An elated St Joseph’s coach John Lusaka said that winning the first match was crucial because it’s a boost to their campaign as they seek to defend their trophy.
"It’s always good to start the championship with victory because in addition to the critical points, it also boosts player confidence, which is vital in any competitive setting,” Lusaka said.
Ng’iya, who are out to upgrade last year’s bronze medal, also had a good start as they edged out Uganda’s St Mary’s College Namagunga 1-0 to enhance their chances of reaching the knockouts.
Quincy Achieng scored Ng’iya’s winning goal. Going into today’s clash against JOGA, Ng’iya coach Oduor Nyadida said that they will fire from all cylinders because it is a key match.