Epic clash of the sticks at Greg Belling Festival
On Friday, 13 March, Union High School’s 1st hockey team travelled to East London to participate in the annual Greg Belling Festival.
The first game was against Kingswood High School, the travel to East London appeared to show that the girls were fatigued and although they tried their best, but they could not convert opportunities. This resulted in them losing their first challenge 3 – 1, with a great goal converted by Chloe Shires.
After a good-nights rest the girls came prepared for an early morning start against Eldoraine High School.
The challenge was set and the girls were caught off guard by finding themselves 1 – 0 down. This was short-lived as Jade Shires equalized to take the girls into half time 1 – 1.
After a brilliant team effort, the girls found themselves 2 – 1 up in the third quarter with a great finished goal from Sonwabisa Mroro. The fourth quarter was a continuous battle which ended with Eldoraine equalizing with a tied final score of 2 – 2.
The afternoon brought the almighty challenge of Hoёrskool Menlopark from Pretoria. Clearly the underdogs, Union took to the field with pride and managed to hold the girls to a 6 – 0 defeat, showing endless grit and heart to keep the tough competition at bay.
Union’s final encounter on Sunday was against local Eastern Cape school, Collegiate Girls High School. A tough final competitor, but the girls were adamant for a good result. The competitive edge clearly showed as the girls held the Collegiate strikers to a 1 – 0 defeat. This after over 20 short corners defended by the team.
Overall the girls showed amazing sportsmanship and comradery, the school community can be very proud of their results as well as their attitude during play.