USIU-A Spartans beat Amira to end string of poor results in title race

United States International University of Africa (USIU-A) Spartans yesterday recovered from a series of disappointing outings to beat Amira Sailors 2-0 in a Kenya Hockey Union Women's Premier League match played at their backyard.

Until yesterday's victory, Spartans had a dismal show salvaging just two points from a possible 15 from five matches.

They suffered three straight losses to top tier debutants Kisumu Queens, Lakers Hockey Club and Sliders, then followed it up with draws against Strathmore University Scorpions and Mombasa Sports Club.

Against Amira, Spartans, who finished fifth at this year's Africa Cup of Club Championships early this year, they showed determination and hunger for victory.

They were more tactical in both offence and defence, though their frequent attacks did not bear fruit in the first half. They, however, refused to give up and continued to press deep into Amira's territory. Their relentless efforts paid off in the 37th and 57th minutes Judy Abayo and Lorraine Rutendo's field goals.

Champions Blazers Hockey Club maintained their unbeaten run with a 2-1 win over bitter rivals Sliders Hockey Club. After conceding in the sixth minute through Esther Chamchui, they rallied from behind to register their fifth win.

They scored in the 19th minute through Aurellia Opondo's penalty corner conversion with Eleanor Chebet netting the winning goal in the 40th minute.

USIU-A men bounced back from their 2-3 loss to Nairobi Sikh Union to thrash KCA University 8-0. KCA seemed to have no clue of how to contain USIU-A who capitalised on that to score at will and prove that they are top contenders for this season's title.

Danstone Barasa, James Mwangi and Wayne Chong'wony bagged a brace each, while Lawrence Makhatsa and Brian Ogenche scored one goal apiece.

[Elizabeth Mburugu]