On Saturday 12th November, Cayman Field Hockey sent a squad to Kingston, Jamaica to contest the Alexandra Horner Memorial Trophy, a bi-annual field hockey match played between Cayman- and Jamaica-based teams, returning for the first time since Covid. The day’s format was two warm up matches, followed by the main event.
Cayman started well, leading at half time by a skillful goal scored by forward Joseph Kibue. As the match moved into the final period, the Jamaicans scored two quick goals as their young stars found more space against tiring Cayman legs. Warm up match one finished Jamaica 2 Cayman Hockey 1.
Cayman dominated proceedings in the first half of warm up match two, but only held a slender lead thanks to captain Dwayne Atherley’s classy finish. Two late Jamaican goals turned the game and warm up match two finished Jamaica 2 Cayman 1.
As the teams took to the field for the trophy match, torrential rain began to fall and, thankfully, so did the temperature. Cayman started quickly, scoring through Kibue. The Jamaicans equalised soon after. Cayman retook the lead with an instinctive close range finish from Jillian Connelly and held on until a last second equaliser meant the trophy would be decided on penalties.
The five brave players to step up from the Cayman team were Atherley, Trish Andersen, Kibue, Connelly and Mark Williams. The match came down to the final penalty for each team. Cayman veteran Williams nonchalantly flicked the ball into the net, the final Jamaican player missed, and the jubilant Cayman squad flooded onto the pitch to celebrate.
Cayman Field Hockey are grateful to their Jamaican counterparts for the hospitality shown and the excellent organisation. They look forward to next year’s edition, where they hope to keep the trophy here in Cayman.
Cay 3 Sports 