Gloucester Junior Panthers continue their good form this hockey season as they came up against the Taree Tigers.
The game started slowly for the Gloucester team as they struggled to find their positions on the field. Although they were able to maintain enough control of the game, they were certainly not dominating the Taree team. Forward, Justin Battams was first to strike after 20 minutes with a clean hit just inside the D. Despite the lead, the team let many more opportunities pass before left winger, Toreen Denyer was able to convert off a deflection late in the first half to lead into the second half 2-0.
In the second half, the Tigers came out strong and began to create their own opportunities against the unorganised Panthers and within 10 minutes of the second half, they were able to convert off a short corner penalty. This was enough to fire up the Gloucester juniors and they started to shape up.
Their passing game began to gel, their support and positioning with one another took shape and they took to the game with a new exuberance. Although there were a few missed opportunities, this was more a testament to the Tigers defence than the brilliant play in the scoring circle. Justin Battams again lead a charge with a cross to Ryan Beggs who carried it down the right wing before a quick cross back to Justin to convert. Darcey Fry lead the charge in the backs demonstrating a steady control of backs. Aided by Nathan Woods, who made some brilliant last minute saves, the Tigers scoreline did not improve.
With five minutes remaining another play saw Toreen converting her second goal to see the Panthers take out the win 4-1. Play of the day this week went to Darcey Fry for her consistency and strength in the backs. Next week, the team take on the Taree West Raiders.
