The SA Hockey Under 21 IPT got underway at Cornwall Hill College with a powerful opening day — a day marked by dominant displays, spirited fights, and early warnings sent to rivals.
WOMEN’S TOURNAMENT
North West, the defending champions, wasted no time laying down a marker. An 8-0 demolition of Mpumalanga showed their strength across the field, with eight different players getting on the scoresheet, including a brace from Emily Wilson. A complete performance to open their title defence.
In the second Pool A match, Southern Gauteng edged out a determined KZN Raiders side 2-1. Goals from Kashni Sundram and Hannah Quinton inside the first quarter gave Southerns the platform, and despite Caitlin Cotterill pulling one back for Raiders, they held on under pressure to secure a vital win.
In Pool B, Western Province, 2024’s runners-up, started strongly with a convincing 5-0 win over Free State. Malikah Hamza grabbed two goals, supported by strikes from Mbali Anthony, Tanya Pieterse, and Paige Thomas, with Province controlling proceedings from start to finish.
Hosts Northern Blues matched that result, beating Eastern Province 5-1. Leading 5-0 before conceding a late goal to Kerri Kespay, the Blues were impressive with Emily Macquet scoring twice and further goals from Elizabeth Porter, Anja Tromp, and Tiara Finnis.
MEN’S TOURNAMENT
North West held off a spirited challenge from Eastern Province to claim a 5-2 win in Pool A. After EP levelled early through Kian Cambier, NW responded through Jaydon Brooker (2), Reece Gordon, and Sibusiso Ramabele to seal the result and start their campaign positively.
Northern Blues, looking to defend their 2024 title on home soil, secured a professional 3-0 victory over Mpumalanga with goals from Kabo Ratlepe, Corne Burger, and Devin Wax.
Southern Gauteng produced the biggest scoreline of the day, overcoming an early shock from Free State to win 8-2. After falling behind, Southerns responded emphatically with goals from Meshack Adams, Fynn Campbell, Sibusiso Chili, Tyler Reed-Napier, Miguel de Jesus, Kristofer Watt (2), and Nashaan Matroos.
The match of the day came between Western Province and KZN Raiders. WP took the lead through James Flint, but Lethabo Bogacwi turned the game around with two quick goals. Joshua Mettler equalised just before halftime, but a late winner from Dylan Pratt gave the Raiders a dramatic and crucial 3-2 win.
Day 1 was all about setting the tone.
Day 2 will be about tightening the grip.
The chase for semi-final spots is officially on.
