By Oscar Pilipili
Telkom Orange unbeaten record in national women’s hockey league faces a litmus test as they host rivals Sliders at City Park Stadium.
The match, which is scheduled for tomorrow, involves teams with contrasting fortunes particularly in the training aspect. Whereas Orange have pitched camp at the world-class City Park Stadium, Sliders, who face financial constraints, operate like nomads roaming through Nairobi in search of an affordable venue.
Sliders senior player Tina Agunda rued the misfortune saying it threatens the growth and future of the self-supporting team.
“If we don’t get somewhere to train we just work on physical fitness and when we get a pitch we focus on game skills,” said Agunda.
Sliders often train at Moi Nairobi Girls High where a friend of the team and institution’s hockey side coach Amai Olubayi often accommodates them. They also practice at Impala Club whenever an opportunity arises. Commenting on their match with Orange, Agunda said: “I know it will be a tough one but we will come out and do our best.”
Sliders must man-mark their opponents if they are to cut them out and bolster their league campaign. They have to halt the Orange’s marching parade especially, the Agunda’s sibling Dorcie, Anita and Tina. There is also danger from Flavian Amuhaya, Linet Onyango and Elizabeth Awuor.
Telkom are unbeaten in the three fixtures honoured in the nine-team league and coach Jos Openda is certain that the indomitable queens will extend the record to four matches after their meeting with Sliders.
“My players are not only in great form but also in good shape. I respect Sliders as worthy opponents but I don’t see them winning against us. I look forward to a successful weekend because we’re always winners,” said Openda.
Mount Kenya University are drawn against National Youth Service in the day’s opener as Kenyatta University play Multi-Media University in men’s National league matches.
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