Randburg witnesses an action-packed first weekend of the Premier Hockey League

The third annual CTM Premier Hockey League (PHL) was all action during its first weekend of games at the Randburg Hockey Stadium.

Some teams played two matches and some only played one before a few days’ break before the next round.

But already by 12 August, it was easy to tell who could relax a bit in the break, and who would need to plan to perfection to take every point from the next games.

Origins Maropeng Cavemen led the men’s section with two wins from two games, leaving them on seven points.

But one point behind them is Kilimanjaro Addo Elephants, also with two wins.

The women’s section is led by Italtile Orange River Rafters, the defending champions.

They are tied with Tivoli Blyde River Bunters on six points after two wins apiece but the Rafters have one better goal difference.

“There’s been fantastic hockey already,” said Marissa Langeni, CEO of the South African Hockey Association. “The 240 best hockey players in the country play at the PHL. It is the biggest hockey event in South Africa, perfect for coaches to select players for the national senior and U21 teams.”

She added that a pink ball was being used during the tournament to mark Women’s Month and honour the 100th centenary of anti Apartheid activist Albertina Sisulu.

“The PHL is perfect for the family as there is food, drinks, a gin bar and beer on tap, as well as jumping castles for children.”

Entrance is free at the PHL.

More information about the PHL can be seen on its website https://premierhockeyleague.co.za/

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