This archive report was first published on 24 July 2019.
On Tuesday, July 23, 2019, the AstroTurf Tournament at Sikh Union, Nairobi, witnessed a thrilling match between SAI Ladies and Oranje Leonas. The Indian team, led by captain Fanai Lalawmpuii, showcased their exceptional skills, dominating the Kenyan girls from the onset.
SAI Ladies had already opened their campaign with a 4-1 win over United States International University of Africa (USIU-A) Spartans. Lalawmpuii scored a hat-trick, adding two goals in the 15th and 20th minutes, while Edula Jydthi, Mary Lotia, and Tanya scored one goal each to give their side a commanding 7-0 half-time lead.
Chauhan Manisha and Pooja Kumari scored one goal each in the second half to seal their victory. Oranje Leonas' coach Tom Olal remained positive despite the loss, stating that it was a great opportunity for the development players to play against a team from India.
“They are in the tournament to learn and I believe that even though they lost, they achieved our objective. India is a high-ranked hockey-playing country, and for our development side to play them is in itself a huge achievement,” Olal said.
Meanwhile, in the men's contest, Kenya Police clobbered Arusha 13-0 in their opening Group B match. Titus Kimutai hit five goals past Arusha Keeper Juma Shabhai, while Vincent Odindo netted a brace and Robert Masibo, Willis Okeyo, Samuel Wokila, Samson Kibirir, Oliver Echenje, and Moses Cheplaiti scored one goal each.
