Sophie tries to sneak one in behind Echuca’s goalie in the under-13s clash. Photo: David Keen.
It was a mixed bag for the Tigers against Echuca in round 12 of the Goulburn Valley Hockey Association competition, with a very nice win for the under-16 side highlighting the weekend’s action.
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Under 13s vs Echuca
Madeleine deflects a shot on goal, backed up by under 13’s goalie Phoenix with Charlee in support. Photo: David Keen.
The under-13s encountered a determined Echuca side, which rallied to show some skilful hockey.
Phoenix had an amazing debut as goalie, staying composed under great pressure to make multiple saves.
The wings ran hard, with Charlee playing a stellar game to channel Echuca away from their goals, and Sophie running in towards strong passes to score Benalla’s first goal.
Captain Hayden provided strength to the forward line, teaming with William to outmanoeuvre Echuca’s midfield and push through into the goal circle multiple times.
Half-back Madeleine kept Echuca out of the circle with fast tackles and close defence.
Rachel and Finn proved a great defensive team, with multiple turnovers and Finn passing out wide to Rachel’s fast passes up the field, but Echuca proved the faster team for the 6-2 win.
Goals: Sophie Littler 1, William Keen 1.
Umpire best and fairest votes: 3 - William Keen, 2 - Charlee Lambden, 1 - Hayden Littler.
Under 16s vs Echuca
Breanna takes a shot on goal against Echuca’s under 16’s. Photo: Shelley Adams.
The under-16s showed their versatility, with changed positions and a strong 4-0 win against Echuca.
The best play was out wide, with both Jack and Breanna using their skill to run long lengths of the wing and into the goal circle, with Jack finally scoring near half-time after Echuca held off multiple shots at goal.
Echuca was also steady in their attack, with some fast breaks halted by full backs Cael and Indi as well as goalie Annie.
Cooper again channelled players out wide, with captain Rory forcing turnovers before the circle to pass up to midfielders Liam and Amelia who pushed through to the forwards.
Ineke made some solid penalty corner hits in from the top of the circle, with Steele running in strongly and Alida finally sneaking a goal in behind the goalie.
Goals: Alida Ferguson 1, Jack Chittick 1.
Umpire best and fairest votes: 3 - Ineke Walsh, 1 - Breanna Graham.
Women’s SYC vs Echuca
It was a fast-paced Women’s game, with lots of connecting passes and strong plays by SYC.
Amber’s turnovers and passes up to half-back Jacinta set the team up for some great attacking opportunities, but the intensely defended goal circle of Echuca proved too good in the 5-0 loss.
