Orange end Scorpions' unbeaten run

National women's hockey league champions Orange Telkom handed last year's silver medalists Strathmore University Scorpions to their first defeat of the season with a 2-1 win.

The 17-time champions Orange scored two early goals as they kept their league run untainted.

First half goals from veteran Hellen Chemtai and captain Betsy Ommala were enough to see Orange widen the gap between them and their closest rival, Strathmore, to five points.

Ommala said the match was highly competitive because Strathmore were worthy opponents and they needed more matches with stronger sides as they prepare to defend the continental title.

"We want to play against stronger sides, which will help us in our international assignment in the Africa Cup of Club championships," Ommala said.

The captain lauded the Strathmore side saying the new players in the team had proved their worth and based on the skills they displayed, they have a bright future.

The match began on a fast pace with Orange playing on the offensive in an effort to score early goals.

International Lilian Aura put Scorpions' goalkeeper Chelsea Odera to the test in the third minute, but she cleared the danger.

Orange intensified their attacks and their efforts paid off three minutes later when Chemtai converted a penalty corner to give Orange the lead.

Ommala converted another penalty corner in the ninth minute as Orange led 2-0.