Pepsi Hikers, GBTI GCC clinch season-opening wins 

Pepsi Hikers and GBTI GCC pose for a photo following their triumphs in the season opener (Royston Alkins photo) 
Pepsi Hikers and GBTI GCC pose for a photo following their triumphs in the season opener (Royston Alkins photo) 

Pepsi Hikers and GBTI GCC began 2019 ideally after they clinched top honours in the annual Bounty Farm Ltd. and Antonio’s Grille One Day hockey tournament at the Providence National Stadium, on Sunday.

 Hikers cooped the season opener by defeating Bounty GCC 4-3 in men’s finals. 

 Hikers, who are the reigning indoor champions, led 3-1 at the half on the back of conversions from Aroydy Brandford and Jamarj Assanah who netted two of the first half goals while Kevin Spencer registered the lone first-half strike for GCC.

 Captain Robert France made it 4-1 for Hikers when play resumed, but GCC made a late run after goals from Spencer and Phillip Fernandes which failed to prevent a Hikers 4-3 win after the final whistle. 

 Earlier, GCC defeated Panthers 3-1 in their semifinal matchup while Hikers downed Jaguars 3-0 en route to the final. 

 The women’s final on the other hand saw GBTI GCC defeating Woodpecker Hikers 1-0 in a close contest with Shebiki Baptise’s fourth-minute goal separating the two teams. 

 Hikers in their semi-final match defeated Saints 2-0 while the eventual winners came from behind and edged their way pass Bingo Spartans 3-2 to register a spot in the championship match.