GRA Ladies Conquer Africa Again, Retain ACCC Title
Author: Victoria Nana Adwoa Kwofie
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Women’s Hockey Team successfully defended their Africa Cup for Club Championship (ACCC) title on Friday, February 7, in Egypt, increasing their championship tally to 5.
GRA Ladies kicked off the tournament with a commanding 4-1 victory over Nigeria’s Kada Queens. In their second group game, they faced hosts Sharkia Sporting Club of Egypt and secured a 5-1 win. They continued their dominant form with a resounding 15-0 thrashing of Uganda’s Kampala Hockey Club in their third match. Their final group game saw them overcome Nigeria’s Delta Queens with a solid 3-1 victory, booking their place in the final.
The championship decider saw the Ghanaian side take on Egypt’s Smouha Hockey Club. Three first-half goals sealed the victory, ensuring GRA Ladies retained their continental crown.
Player Gertrude Inkoom spoke to the media after the game, “it was an exciting tournament. The opponents were strong, but we managed to win all our group matches and reach the final. We came well-prepared, and our aim was to defend our title, which we successfully did. I believe this victory will open many opportunities for the team, individual players, and the technical officials to explore greater possibilities.”
Head Coach of GRA Ladies Ida Marmon – Halm also shared this with the media, “we are excited to have won all five matches, and this achievement is a result of the team’s hard work and the unwavering support from management. As coaches and management, we thank God and are proud of the team’s success.”
She further extended gratitude to their supporters, “our appreciation goes to the Ghana Revenue Authority, Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Iddie Adams, the Greater Accra Hockey Association, Ghana Hockey, and all our dedicated supporters, as well as the good people of Ghana.”
Vivian Narkuor won best player and also the top scorer award. Matilda Addison was the best goalkeeper for the tournament.
With this victory, GRA Ladies have reaffirmed their dominance in African women’s club hockey and continue to set the standard on the continent.