The Gloucester Panthers under 15s junior hockey side have had their work cut out for them this season, coming up against some strong teams all year.
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After upsetting one of the two Taree Sharks teams in the competition last week in the semi-finals, they pushed their way through the minor semis and into the finals against the Chatham Wolves last Saturday (September 14).
The team started strong, dominating in their offensive half for the first 10 minutes of the match. It looked like it was going to be another grand final match for the team but Chatham worked their way back with great tactics and game play. They were able to be in all the right positions to defend and keep Gloucester away from the goals.
Despite this, Gloucester demonstrated some great defence in light of the amount of shots on goal the Wolves had. Elise Coombes was spectacular in the goals she kept out.
Chatham scored two goals in the first half by stealing possession and intercepting Gloucester passes. There were a few great breaks from the Panthers but play was forced up the middle too often and the team fell short.
In the second half, Gloucester came closer with their opportunities and just missed off some short corners but when the Chatham team scored their third goal in the second half, the comeback became harder.
The mixed team have had a great season this year, learning a lot in this higher grade. Although their season has come to an end, they are keen to build on their skills for next season. The Gloucester Hockey Club is always looking for any interested players, juniors or seniors.
Meanwhile, the men's team is still in the competition, and we wish them luck for the upcoming grand final match next Saturday (September 21) in Taree as they come up against the Sharks.