The SPAR & Tops at SPAR Indoor Hockey IPT got off to a thrilling start at Beaulieu College, Johannesburg, with South Africa’s best indoor hockey teams battling for provincial pride. Excitement is at an all-time high following the SA Indoor Hockey Men’s historic bronze medal at the Indoor World Cup, setting the stage for an intense competition. Defending champions Western Province (Men) and KZN Raiders (Women) faced strong challenges as teams fought to make their mark in the opening matches.
Men’s A Section: Goals Galore on Opening Day
The Men’s A Section delivered high-scoring encounters and dramatic finishes, setting the tone for the rest of the tournament:
KZN Raiders navigated a tough battle against KZN Mynahs, securing a solid win with Randal Govender scoring twice.
Northern Blues produced late drama, as Steven Paulo struck after the final hooter to complete a stunning 4-3 comeback win over WP Peninsula.
Southern Gauteng flexed their muscles, dismantling Mpumalanga 12-1, with former Mpumalanga star Liam Hermanus netting six goals against his former team.
Defending champions Western Province were made to work, but a hat-trick from SA World Cup star Hans Neethling helped them grind out a 4-1 victory over SG Witsies.
Women’s A Section: Tactical Battles and Star Performances
North West and SG Witsies battled to a goalless draw, showing defensive resilience.
Western Province showcased their attacking firepower, with Kayla de Waal netting a hat-trick in a 6-1 triumph over Mpumalanga.
Northern Blues secured a crucial 2-1 victory over WP Peninsula, holding firm to their lead despite late pressure.
South African Nationals Alex Kavanagh and Bonolo Moabi both scored as the hosts Southern Gauteng defeated the holders KZN Raiders 2-0.
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Men’s B Section: Tight Contests and Late Drama
Mpumalanga B edged past Eastern Gauteng 2-1, surviving a last-minute penalty stroke that could have forced a draw.
Northern Daisies overcame KZN Inland 4-3, thanks to a brace from Ivan Engelbrecht.
Women’s B Section: Commanding Wins and Star Performances
Shanay de Klerk was unstoppable, bagging a hat-trick in a 5-0 rout for Northerns Invitational over Southerns Invitational.
KZN Inland, led by former SA captain Matt Fairweather, showed their depth in a 4-0 victory over Eastern Gauteng, with four different players getting on the scoresheet.
The action continues on Thursday, and fans can catch all the games live on SuperSport’s YouTube channel. Stay tuned for more thrilling moments as the tournament unfolds!
by South Africa
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