In a thrilling National Hockey B Div Boys 2024 Preliminary Round match between Raffles Institution and St. Hilda’s Secondary School, spectators were treated to a display of skill, determination, and sportsmanship. With Raffles Institution clinching 2nd place in last year's finals, narrowly losing out to St Andrew’s Secondary School in a gripping 3-4 battle, the stakes were high. On the other hand, St Hilda’s Secondary School showed promise, securing two wins, a draw, and a loss in the previous year's preliminaries, narrowly missing out on advancing to the Quarterfinals.
This year, Raffles Institution entered the fray with an impressive track record, having secured victories against Seng Kang Secondary School with a score of 0-2, and Northland Secondary School with a resounding 6-0 win. Their stellar performance so far in the prelims left them with an untarnished record, setting the stage for an intense final match.
Meanwhile, St Hilda's arrived at today’s preliminary round following a hard-fought win against Northland Secondary School with a score of 2-0, and a narrow victory against Seng Kang Secondary School with a 0-1 scoreline. As the teams prepared to face off, anticipation mounted over which side would emerge victorious in this crucial encounter.
From the opening whistle, both teams showcased their prowess on the field, with intense back-and-forth action keeping fans on the edge of their seats. St. Hilda’s demonstrated tenacity and resilience, refusing to back down in the face of Raffles' relentless attacks. Their defence stood firm against Raffles Institution offensive onslaught, with St. Hilda’s goalkeeper making impressive saves to keep their team in the game.
However, Raffles Institution's offensive prowess ultimately proved too much for St. Hilda’s to handle. With precision passing, strategic plays, and clinical finishing, Raffles Institution managed to secure four goals, securing their 4 - 1 victory. Captained by Jaydon Poh Yi Kai, who displayed great leadership and magnificent stick work, credited a couple of goals to his name in the match. Despite the loss, St. Hilda’s can hold their heads high, knowing they gave it their all and pushed their opponents to their limits in a memorable display of competitive spirit.
Jaydon Poh Yi Kai, the captain of Raffles Institution's team, who also steered the team to last year's finals
Danial Haziq Bin Khairul Abdillah from Raffles Institution in the zone
St.Hilda’s Secondary School’s, Leong Zhen Yu Xavier going head to head with Raffles Institution’s Ryken Cui Ruizheng down the sideline of the pitch.
Moments like this define the spirit of determination. Leong Zhen Yu Xavier from St. Hilda’s Secondary leads the celebration after pulling back a goal for the team
All smiles from the St. Hilda’s Secondary School coach, Mohamed Sabri Bin Yuhari, after seeing the resilience from his boys as they managed to squeeze one goal at the back of the Raffles Institution net.
Raffles Institution’s Mashal Iman Bin Mohamed Norzaid winning with full concentration as he wins back possession against Harris Mikael Bin Muhammed Riszal from the St. Hilda’s Secondary School.
The Raffles Institution’s boys running towards their Captain after a goal score from a penalty corner.
Jaydon Poh Yi Kai with a moment of appreciation by his coach, Ahmad Bakri, moments after scoring an incredible point for the powerhouse.
Ryan Vir Singh Sandhu from Raffles Institution gives chase against Muhammad Afjufri Bin Zainul Abideen as he pushes the St. Hilda’s Secondary School team on attack.
Sportsmanship knows no boundaries. Despite the loss of his team, Leong Zhen Yu Xavier of the St. Hilda’s Secondary School’s team pictured with the captain of Raffles Institution at full time shaking hands.
From fierce competition to genuine respect on the pitch, an embodiment of true sportsmanship between the two teams at the final whistle.
Raffles Institution coach, Ahmad Bakri, shaking hands of the St. Hilda’s Secondary School’s players at the final whistle as an appreciation of their strong display of determination throughout the 60 minutes.