The final day of matches in the Mombasa County Hockey Association promised exciting hockey and it did not disappoint. I was pitch-side at Aryans Ground to report on proceedings as Daikyo Heroes brought the curtain down on their superb season in style.
In the early game, league champions Daikyo Heroes took on local rivals Mombasa West HC. It didn’t take the league’s top scorers long to assert their authority as Farhan Khan fired home a penalty corner inside 10 minutes. From there, Daikyo dominated possession and George Omondi added a well-taken field goal before half-time.
After the restart, Daikyo continued pressing and their perseverance paid off through captain Oscar Kibet’s late goal. The striker took a pass inside the D and cleverly swept home to complete a comprehensive 3-0 win, showcasing why Daikyo have been the team to beat all season. Their performance ensured they sign off as champions in the ideal fashion on the final day.
Next up, a hard-fought battle saw St Charles Girls lose 1-0 to BOC Ladies. A tight tactical battle ensued until Ruth Omiya reacted quickest just before the break to fire the winner. Despite St Charles’ best efforts after half-time, BOC defended resolutely to end as runners-up in the women’s championship.
In the day’s closing game, title challengers MSC warmed up for next season in style against Swans. Star forward Mercy Cheptoo netted twice either side of the interval, highlighting her prowess in front of goal. Mary Georgeon then put the icing on the cake with a stunning long-range strike. MSC ran out convincing 3-0 victors to give their fans hope for 2023/24.
The final matches provided the ideal send-off for Daikyo Heroes and a glimpse at more attacking delights to come next season from MSC. Mombasa fans will hope their sides can continue pushing each other to greater heights in what was an exhilarating conclusion to the 2022/23 campaign.
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