Bay win mini-tournament

MINI-TOURNEY WINNERS: The Poverty Bay under-15 boys’ hockey team won a mini-tournament in Levin for central region teams that did not attend the national tournament. They are, standing (from left): Wade Manson (coach), George Allan, Matthew Pepere, Flynn Cave, Eric Taylor, Cole Manson, Kris Paea-Matete, Olly Cranefield, Jamie Walker and Kiri Taylor (manager). Sitting: Jack Willock, Dylan Dyer, Harry Allan, David Levy, Aiden Scragg and Patrick Brownlie. Picture supplied

HOCKEY

A LACK of game time did not stop Poverty Bay from producing a title-winning performance at the under-15 boys’ hockey mini-tournament in Levin.

The Wade Manson-coached side flew the Poverty Bay flag high with three wins and a draw to top the five-team round robin.

They defeated Kapiti 7-0, Manawatu 10-0 and Horowhenua 5-0, before drawing 2-2 with Hawke’s Bay in what was essentially a final.

“We chose not to go to the national under-15 tournament,” Manson said.

“Last year it was in Invercargill, which we went to, and it was in Dunedin this year.

“It takes a bit to fundraise and the cost is high to get to the South Island.

“There were a few other associations that didn’t attend either, so Hawke’s Bay organised a mini-tournament in Levin for the central region teams who didn’t travel.

“This gave our boys an opportunity to get some game time and represent the region.

“We didn’t have much game time heading into the tournament so didn’t know what to expect.”

Poverty Bay got better as the week went and turned on their best team performance against Horowhenua.

“Everything worked; ball movement and positioning were outstanding,” Manson said.

Poverty Bay had beaten Hawke’s Bay 2-1 this year so knew they would be tough.

“It was a tense game. We were up 2-0 but Hawke’s Bay came back and levelled it. We were unlucky not to convert a few penalty corners but the draw was enough to win the tournament.”

Manson said the tournament proved a good development opportunity for the new players at u15 level.

“We also had two goalkeepers so it was great too see that area developing.”

Manson expressed his and the players’ gratitude to manager Kiri Taylor, hockey stalwart Tony Scragg for his support, and Lachlan Vause, who travelled as umpire.

“It was great to have parents/supporters with us, too. The boys love it when they have that sideline support.”

Poverty Bay goalscorers for the tournament: Harry Allan 9 goals, Jamie Walker 4, Eric Taylor 3, Matthew Pepere 2, Patrick Brownlie 2, Olly Cranefield 1, David Levy 1, Cole Manson 1, Jack Willock 1.