A day of sensational hockey at St. Stithians College saw the crowning of the 2024 A Section champions, with Northern Blues and South Africa U21 emerging victorious in hard-fought finals.<\/p>\n
The women\u2019s final was a tense, closely contested battle between the defending champions Western Province and Northern Blues. Maikemisetso Marokoane gave the Blues an early lead, scoring what turned out to be the only goal of the game.<\/p>\n
Despite the early strike, the match didn\u2019t open up as expected, with both teams playing cautiously and creating few quality chances. The game was a showcase of defensive discipline and tactical patience, as both sides struggled to find a decisive breakthrough.<\/p>\n
Northern Blues co-captain Tegan Fourie expressed her delight post-match: Bronze Medal Match: Southern Gauteng 2-1 South Africa U21<\/strong> Individual Awards<\/strong> The Men\u2019s A Section final between Southern Gauteng and South Africa U21 was a thrilling, defensive showcase with both sides struggling to find the back of the net. The breakthrough finally came in the last quarter when Southern Gauteng was awarded a penalty stroke. JP Britz converted, putting Southerns ahead with minutes to go.<\/p>\n However, with time ticking away, SA U21 was awarded their own penalty stroke, and Jaydon Brooker calmly leveled the score, sending the match to a shootout. Daniel Dillon was the hero for the national juniors, saving four consecutive attempts after conceding the first, sealing a dramatic 2-1 shootout victory.<\/p>\n SA U21 captain Daniel Neuhoff celebrated the win: Bronze Medal Match: Western Province 3-2 Northern Blues<\/strong> Individual Awards<\/strong> With champions crowned and players honored, the 2024 A Section Hockey IPT leaves fans eagerly awaiting next year\u2019s tournament, which promises even more excitement and high-octane hockey action.<\/p>\n
\n“We feel incredible! It wasn\u2019t just about today but all the hard work throughout the week. Full credit to Western Province, they kept us on our toes. I\u2019m so proud of the team, and now it\u2019s time to celebrate!”<\/em><\/p>\n
\nIn a thrilling bronze medal game, Southern Gauteng snatched victory with a last-second goal. Shanna Mendonca\u2019s brace, including the game-winner just as the hooter sounded, secured a 2-1 triumph over the SA Under 21 side.<\/p>\n
\nFinal Women\u2019s A Section Standings<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\nTop Goal Scorer: Hanrie Louw (Northern Blues) & Marguerite van Wyk (Northern Blues)
\nGoalkeeper of the Tournament: Marlise van Tonder (Western Province)
\nPlayer of the Tournament: Edith Molikoe (Northern Blues)<\/p>\n
\nMen\u2019s A Section Final: South Africa U21 1-1 Southern Gauteng (SA U21 wins 2-1 in shootout)<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n“It\u2019s an honor to be out here with the boys. Full credit to Southerns for an incredible game. When we hit shootouts, I had full confidence in our keeper\u2014he showed his quality today.”<\/em><\/p>\n
\nWestern Province secured the bronze with a thrilling 3-2 win over Northern Blues. Meanwhile, Eastern Province avoided relegation with a victory over SG Witsies.<\/p>\n
\nFinal Men\u2019s A Section Standings<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\nTop Goal Scorer: Brad Sherwood (Northern Blues)
\nGoalkeeper of the Tournament: Cullin de Jager (Southern Gauteng)
\nPlayer of the Tournament: Jaydon Brooker (SA Under 21)<\/p>\n
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