Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
ZIMBABWEAN champions, Hippo Hockey Club, were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw by Zambia’s Hotspurs in a fiery Battle of the Zambezi on the second day of the Africa Cup for Club Championship Hockey tournament in Harare.
Hippo went into the encounter aiming to build on their opening 1-0 victory over Bulawayo Hockey Club, but a stubborn Hotspurs side stood firm, denying the hosts a second straight win despite sustained pressure.
“We are disappointed to drop points, especially in a match like this. We felt we could have won it, but we didn’t manage the key moments well,” Hippo defender, Pritchard Matambo said.
From the Zambian camp, the draw was greeted with satisfaction, underpinned by a composed goalkeeping display that frustrated the home side.
“We are happy with the draw. Playing Hippo here is tough, so this result gives us confidence as we move forward,” Hotspurs goalkeeper, Robson Kunda noted.
The Africa Cup for Club Championship Hockey tournament has attracted nine men’s teams and four women’s teams from across the continent, all competing for continental honours in Harare.
As the tournament gathers pace, Hippo remain in contention but know that converting dominance into victories will be key as the race for African club hockey glory intensifies.
