Benalla-SYC under-16 semi-finalists (from back) Coach Dave Chittick, Cael Johnson, Angus Hayes, Cooper, Xavier Kramer, Ineke, Breanna, Jack Chittick, Team Manager Mel, (front) Rory, Annie (GK), Alida Ferguson, Indi, Steele Adams. Absent: Kobe and Brodie Rawlings. Photo: Will Scott.
The Goulburn Valley Hockey Association saw some great hockey action in the semi-finals on Saturday, with both Benalla’s under-16s side and women fighting hard right to the final siren.
Under 16s vs GVGS
Under-16 goalie Annie stops a big hit on goal from a penalty corner, with Cael and Jack on posts and Rory as second runner. Photo: Lee Manning.
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Taking to the field against second-placed side GVGS at Shepparton Regional Hockey Complex on Saturday, Benalla was immediately on the back foot as GVGS set the tone with a fast break to score in the first minute of the game.
Another two goals in the first quarter caused the Tigers to really dig deep and fight back, with some excellent passing through the middle by centre-half Xavier able to penetrate the GVGS wall multiple times, but some long runs by Ineke and Jack were thwarted by the defence.
Xavier races through the midfield in the under-16 clash. Photo: Lee Manning.
Goalie Annie really shone in the second and fourth quarters, repelling many big hits and penalty corners, with Cael and Cooper running out to halt multiple fast breaks, strengthened by Indi.
Alida ran hard along the wing to catch wide balls, passing in to Angus who made a great run into the circle but narrowly missed a goal.
Steele saw some action at the half line, passing on to captain Breanna who ran down with a short pass to Xavier who hit into the circle to assist in Benalla’s first goal.
Jack clears the ball strongly from an under-16 penalty corner, with goalie Annie and Cael defending behind. Photo: Erin Jenkins.
The team missed brothers’ Brodie and Kobe’s dexterity through the midfield, and were unable to convert multiple further runs into the circle.
The 1-6 loss brings and end to Benalla’s season, while GVGS progress to meet the minor premier Strikers in the grand final next week.
Women’s SYC vs Mooroopna
Lee makes a strong pass into the centre under a Mooroopna stick in the Women’s game. Photo: Erin Jenkins.
The SYC Women were able to hold top-of-the-ladder Mooroopna steady after an early goal, with no further score until the third quarter.
Lee worked hard, positioned along both sides at various times, running ahead into the circle as a wing, and making some skilful tackles and long passes as a half-back.
Full-back Amber turned on the speed, racing across the circle to intercept players being channelled by half-backs Lee and Saz, forcing balls out the sideline and halting many runs on goal.
Jacinta positioned well for free hits, using her stick skills to avoid defenders and run through the midfield for some handy shots into the circle
Despite goalie Nat’s amazing stops and determination to dive on the ball, SYC lost 0-4 to see Mooroopna advance to meet Echuca in the grand final.
Benalla Hockey Club 2026 Presentation Lunch and AGM
All players, families and supporters are welcome to the Benalla Hockey Club’s Presentation Lunch on Saturday, September 19, at the Benalla Gardens Tennis Club, followed by the Annual General Meeting at 2pm.
Come and support the club as it gears up to celebrate its 100th birthday in 2027. Please email benallahockey@gmail.com for more information.
