The second day of the KES Easter Festival witnessed the participation of fourteen esteemed hockey schools competing at the King Edward VII School (KES) Astro and the St John’s Astro. These schools, supported by Standard Bank, exhibited exceptional performances despite the Good Friday break.
The day commenced with an intense confrontation between Parktown Boys’ High and Grey College, where both teams demonstrated confidence and solid defensive capabilities. The match concluded in a 1-1 draw, with both teams displaying formidable determination.
Following this was the encounter between Queen’s College and Maritzburg College, in which Maritzburg College secured a commanding 3-0 victory. The youthful team, under the guidance of Coach Kyle Emerson, showcased exceptional talent while facing Queen’s College, composed of talented u16 players and Grade 11 students.
However, Maritzburg College faced a tough battle against Waterkloof in a thrilling match filled with aggressive attacks and strategic plays. Despite a slight decline in performance in the second half, Maritzburg College maintained their lead and clinched a 1-0 victory.
Selborne College continued their winning streak with triumphs over St Charles and Northwood, affirming their dominance in both matches. The absence of key players, including their captain, placed St Charles at a disadvantage, resulting in losses against both Selborne and Northwood.
Northwood, led by coach Justin Collins, celebrated a hard-fought 2-1 victory against St John’s, showcasing their determination and resilience on the field.
Kearsney College also commenced the festival strongly, securing victories over Jeppe and KES. Coach Ashley Kemp attributed their success to a strong emphasis on defence, underscoring the significance of maintaining a solid defensive strategy.
As the festival progresses into its third day, more exhilarating hockey matches are anticipated, offering high-octane action. The lineup includes double-headers and intense showdowns between top schools, continuing to captivate hockey enthusiasts at the KES Easter Festival.
The festival has showcased remarkable talent and sportsmanship, with teams demonstrating their skills and determination to secure victories. The level of competition and passion for the sport are evident in every match, making the KES Easter Festival a must-see event for hockey enthusiasts.
With a range of fixtures scheduled for the remaining days, spectators can anticipate captivating matches as the participating schools continue to exhibit their prowess on the field.
In conclusion, the KES Easter Festival has provided a platform for top hockey schools to compete at the highest level, delivering enthralling matches and outstanding performances. The festival promises to be an action-packed celebration of the sport, with teams vying for victory in every game. As the tournament progresses, the competition is set to intensify, offering spectators an unforgettable experience filled with top-tier hockey action.