The Pambula men’s hockey side had a hard-fought finish to the season on Saturday.
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The club went down in a close 3-2 battle with the Magpies in the Sapphire Coast Hockey Association’s grand final at the Bega Valley Fields.
Association president Steven James said that it was a commendable effort from the Pambula outfit, who were a man down in the nine-a-side contest.
“It was an exceptional effort from those guys to have a fantastic match one player down for the game,” James said.
The Pambula roster had one player on the sidelines, but no subs for play through injury.
The defending premiers in the Magpies captained by Troy Johnson were repeatedly pressured by the Pambula outfit, but held out to claim their third premiership on the run.
James commended the speed and ability of the Pambula roster. He praised Nick Hoynes saying he was a fast and extremely capable player, while also giving a glowing review to some of the Pambula young guns.
Hoynes was named the best and fairest in the men’s competition at a special presentation evening following Saturday’s games.
Luke Apps was dubbed player of the final.
Long drives and overhead flick lobs proved popular in the contest as players were able to try and cut out some of the opposing defence.
James said it was an “unreal day” for the hockey finals, particularly given the horrendous windy conditions a week earlier where the Pambula outfit had downed Tathra for a grand final spot.
Earlier in the day, the C grade was won by Grand Hotel with a 5-1 win over Elders.
In the B grade, Grand again stole the show - in what many said was the match of the day – winning 1-0 in extra time against Elders.
And in the A grade women’s game, the Elders outfit topped the competition, claiming their fourth premiership in a row with a 2-0 result over United.
The Elders ladies scored twice off two early stroke shots on goal with Joccoaa Rogers and Ebony Pointon nailing their shots at the net.
Following the games, the association hosted a presentation evening at the Bega Civic Centre with almost 200 in attendance.
“The turnout was unbelievable and for me, it was pretty amazing to see everyone there.”
The Association is now excited for the upcoming indoor hockey season.
Any late registrations or new players are urged to contact the club via their website at www.sapphirecoasthockey.org.