International Hockey returned to Gibraltar after a two year absence, in a very positive way.  As part of the restructuring and development of the Gibraltar Hockey Association (GHA), two Dutch hockey teams visited the Victoria Stadium last weekend.  With the standard of hockey being extremely high, this was surely going to be some tough opposition for National team.

Friday 11th February 2017. GHA vs. Kikkers H.C

International hockey returned to Gibraltar on Friday 11th February with a game against Kikkers Hockey Club from Holland.
The team GHA Men's team is coached by the versatile Christian Zammit, who implemented to the team from the very start that they could not relax, and that was kept going till the very end.
Ryan Gabay opened the score for the GHA, only minutes later to be cancelled by the opposition.  Kikkers H.C then went ahead only for the GHA to draw the game again through a goal from Shane Ramagge to make it 2 –2.  With some actioned end to end hockey Giles Cerisola then made it 3 –2 for the GHA.  Kikkers H.C then struck with skill and speed twice in succession to make it 4 – 3.  Karl Lima then scored, to draw the game 4– 4.
Kikkers H.C then restored their lead to make it 4 – 5, only with secondsto go, up pops the evergreen George Shacaluga to make it 5 – 5.  With their different approach and playing styles both teams tested each other giving spectators first class European Hockey.

Saturday 12th February 2017. GHA vs. Abcoube H.C

The second fixture started with the GHA exerting a high memento as the previous evening, only to go one goal down early against the run of play. Karl Lima then scored boosting the spirits of the GHA.  With the score at 1 – 1 both teams battled to dominate the game, which brought success to the GHA with a great goal by Gareth Henwood, giving the GHA the 2 - 1 lead.   This goal was first class as it showed his wonderful knowledge of the game and his skills and reading of the game, truly textbook hockey.
The enthusiasm and hard work by the GHA players which were rotated brilliantly by the team coach Christian Zammit culminated, in a third goal 3 – 1, by Shane Ramagge.

The GHA would like to thank both teams for giving our National Men's Squad the opportunity to play against them.  They fully enjoyed their visit to Gibraltar, especially exploring all that is on offer across the Rock.  The GHA wish both teams all the best in both their hockey league and european competitions.  The GHA would also like to thank everyone who has been involved in making this possible.  Visit the GHA website www.gibraltarhockeyassociation.com in the build up to an action packed Spring and Summer of European competitions.