Champions Jaguars thump Strathmore Gladiators

Butali Sugar's Francis Kariuki and Bethuel Wanyonyi of Western Jaguar in a past action. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Reigning Kenya Hockey Union Men's Premier League champions Western Jaguars yesterday recovered from a slow start to thrash Strathmore University Gladiators 4-1 to chalk up their first win of the season.

Jaguars, who had begun their title defence campaign on the wrong footing, returned stronger to reclaim control of their Eregi Teachers College ground with the resounding victory.

Last weekend they had a dull outing, losing 2-0 to United States International University of Africa (USIU-A), and only managed to salvage a point in a barren draw against Wazalendo Hockey Club. However, yesterday the gods of hockey seemed to have restored favour on them as they rallied from a goal down to score all four goals in the second half and prove that they are indeed the reigning kings of hockey.

Jaguars coach Michael Malungu lauded his charges for showing character and resilience.

"It was a close match, but the team showed great resilience and character coming from a goal down in the second half. Our hard work, patience and persistence paid off. We made some tactical and structural changes in the second half thus turning the game around," Malungu said.

Youngster Newton Mwangaza netted his first Premier League goal in the third quarter to set Jaguars on the way to victory. Strathmore had taken a 19th minute lead through a Noel Cheboi field goal. The goal would awaken the fighting spirits in Jaguars players, but the Gladiators would defend their lead for a 1-0 half-time advantage.

Jaguars controlled the game in the second half with their efforts paying off as Mwangaza restored parity in the 38th minute. Calistus Muyale would give the homeboys a 2-1 lead in the 43rd minute with Hillary Angairwa making it three seconds to the end of the third quarter. Derrick Juma made it four three minutes to the final whistle.

Mwangaza, a form four student at Musingu High School with a very bright hockey future, would give their opponents as well as hockey enthusiasts a sneak preview of what they should expect from him this season. Formerly of Coast hockey powerhouse St Charles Lwanga, Mwangaza's star shone bright during last year's East Africa games held in Mbale, Uganda.

His hockey prowess would leave a bitter taste in the mouths of his opponents.