Jamaica’s hockey5s save the best for last
Published:Thursday | February 1, 2024 | 12:09 AMLivingston Scott/Gleaner Writer
JAMAICA’S HOCKEY5S turned in their best performance at the FIH Hockey5 World Cup in Muscat, Oman, in their final game yesterday but still came up short of victory, losing 4-2 to Fiji in a playoff for 15th place.
The result means Jamaica, who lost all six matches at the tournament, finished 16th overall.
Despite their failure to secure what would have been a historic win, coach Duvaughn Henlon was pleased with their effort.
“It was a good effort from the players. I think all the players showed great signs of improvement and the experience gained will create and chart a new level in Jamaica.
“Participating in our first World Cup event has shown it is possible for us to be here and it has inspired us to return to a World Cup and improve on our first attempt,” he said.
In yesterday’s playoff match, the Jamaicans went ahead twice, first through Shamar Gordon in the 15th minute, but Kristofer Mock equalised seconds later to end the first half at 1-1.
Two minutes into the second half, Nickoy Stephenson netted his third goal in as many games to restore Jamaica’s advantage.
However, goals four minutes from time from Terrence Corrie, Mock and Leevan Dutta propelled Fiji to victory.
“It has been awesome playing in Oman,” Henlon continued.
“A fantastic stadium, with world-class facilities. We hope that going forward, with continued support, we get to play more international games both home and away to further expose and give more experience to the young team in preparation for the Pan American Challenge to be held in Peru in September,” he said.
He added that with the right support, Jamaica’s hockey can be competitive on the international stage.
“Thanks to all the players, coaching and management staff, members of the Jamaica Hockey Federation and sponsors who made this possible. We would further encourage everyone to continue to support field hockey in Jamaica. I think we are on the right path for development.”