Monument goes back-to-back as Noordvaal Cup champion
Hoërskool Monument successfully defended their Noordvaal Cup title in emphatic style, defeating Hoërskool Zwartkop 3-0 in the final on Saturday.
Captain Reece Green opened the scoring late in the first chukka with a well-executed penalty corner. In the third chukka, Jaiden Smith extended the lead with a sharp field goal, before Caleb Aitken sealed the victory with a powerful drag flick into the bottom left corner.
Coach Divan Geyser was full of praise for his team’s performance and mental strength throughout the tournament.
“Obviously, we are very happy with the win and going back-to-back. The boys displayed good character throughout the tournament,” Geyser said.
“On paper, the three coaches – Tiaan Meyer, Jake Franklin, and I – had different roles in preparing and coaching the boys, but we view the win as a collective effort.”
Geyser said his team’s title success was built on tactical discipline and making the most of their chances.
“Our strategy was to play to our strengths, maintain possession, and capitalise on scoring opportunities. We worked tirelessly to perfect our teamwork and communication on the field,” he explained.
Monument enjoyed an outstanding season, playing 53 matches, winning 44 of them, while drawing six and losing only three. Winning the Noordvaal Cup for a second successive season was the cherry on the top after an outstanding campaign.
Geyser paid tribute to the matric players in the side who signed off with another title: “To the matrics, we are going to miss coaching every one of you,” he said. “You have grown so much as players and as individuals. We are proud of the progress you have made. Lastly, I’m grateful for the opportunity to have been part of your hockey journey.
“To the younger players, we are excited to see you continue growing and developing. Keep working hard, we are looking forward to seeing you build on everything that we have achieved thus far.”
RESULTS
1/2: Monument 3-0 Zwartkop
3/4: Potch Gim 1-3 Pietersburg
5/6: HTS Witbank (1) 2-2 (3) Nelspruit
7/8: Helpmekaar 2-1 Rustenburg
9/10: Waterkloof 3-2 Midstream
11/12: Sasolburg 6-2 Middelburg
FINAL STANDINGS
1. Monument
2. Zwartkop
3. Pietersburg
4. Porch Gim
5. Nelspruit
6. HTS Witbank
7. Helpmekaar
8. Rustenburg
9. Waterkloof
10. Midstream
11. Sasolburg
12. Middelburg
