Four in a row for EHS

EMPANGENI High had to work hard at Grantleigh Schools on Saturday, to claim their fourth consecutive Northern KZN Spar Challenge hockey title.

Unlike the host school, whose trip to the finals was paved and tarred, EHS’s road was filled with potholes.

EHS managed to win four out of their five games, scoring 13 goals and conceding one, to book their spot in the finals.

Grantleigh went unbeaten, winning five out of five, scoring 15 goals and conceding none.

As a result, the two top girls sides met in the final, which produced sensational hockey.

The game was tightly contested, with the home side getting more shots at goal in the early stages.

When EHS found their feet, it resulted in two brilliant goals from striker Kimberley Swan, which handed EHS a 2-0 lead.

That is where it ended, handing the government school their fourth consecutive title.

EHS will compete at the Spar KZN Regional finals from 25-26 July at St Mary’s and Thomas Moore.

‘It is exciting to see an astroturf in the North Coast region. I hope it increases the love of the game and I have no doubt that it will improve the standard of hockey in the region,’ said Tournament Director Les Galloway.

Storm Blignaut was selected as the umpire of the day, and will join EHS at the Spar KZN Regional finals.

‘I am very proud of my team. To God be all the glory. All you can do is believe and trust not only in God, but in your team mates. Well done first team hockey girls,’ said EHS captain Dorothy Esterhuysen.

Grantleigh, EHS, Richards Bay High School, eShowe, St Catherine’s and Mandini participated.

Final log positions

1 Empangeni High School 15 points

2 Grantleigh 10

3 Richards Bay High School 10

4 St Catherine’s 4

5 Mandini 1

6 eShowe 0.