The University of Nairobi showcased their dominance once again in the men’s National Hockey League Eastern Zone, securing a commanding 2-0 triumph over GHF Pirates at the Impala grounds this past Sunday.
With this victory, the hosts solidified their position at the top of the league standings, amassing 51 points and maintaining a three-point lead over second-placed Impala after completing 25 matches of the season.
The city-based team commenced the match with vigor, capitalizing on the Pirates’ sluggish start to execute a series of swift passes and assert control over possession.
In the third minute of the first quarter, Brian Simotwo broke the deadlock for the hosts with a well-placed shot following a penalty corner, putting them in the lead early on.
Although the Pirates attempted to level the score in the 16th minute of the first quarter, Peter Kiboko’s effort narrowly missed the target after a promising combination with Titus Kiptoo. Moments later, Kiboko failed to capitalize on a corner opportunity, much to the frustration of the visiting team.
As both teams entered the final quarter with determination, the Pirates intensified their efforts to find an equalizer. However, their defensive vulnerabilities were exposed in the dying moments of the game when Brian Simotwo outmaneuvered the defense and doubled the hosts’ advantage with a well-taken goal.
Despite the defeat, Pirates’ team manager Dennis Aganyo remained hopeful about their prospects of securing a playoff spot. “The league is not over yet, and with two matches in hand, our team is prepared to earn crucial points,” he remarked optimistically.
Aganyo lamented the missed opportunities during the game, acknowledging that their opponents capitalized on their chances more effectively. “Although we started with a slow tempo, we picked up momentum later in the match. Unfortunately, we were unable to convert our chances, while our opponents capitalized on theirs,” he added.
Currently positioned fifth in the league, the Nakuru-based side faces a challenging home fixture against Daystar University in the coming week as they strive to bounce back from their recent defeat.
