Stratford's A women and men hockey teams have pushed through to the finals following hard-fought battles in the semis over the weekend.
Le Dejeuner Catering Stratford A Women played Masters in the semifinal, who came out firing to score in the first few minutes. Stratford however, found better composure andstarted playing with more intensity, evening the scores at half time. With lots of possession Stratford had many opportunities, but Masters kept them out coming back to score again twice.
Showing determination and commitment through some tough play Stratford scored again and then in the dying minutes scored off a penalty corner to even it up 3-3. Erin Taylor scored all three.
A winner had to be decided by nominating five players to have eight seconds to beat the goalie. Stratford's Paige Bower managed to score, taking Stratford to finals next weekend.
Brian Darth Funeral Services Stratford A Men's took on NPBHS in the men's semifinal. Stratford started nervously and NPBHS controlled the game, but Stratford, led by John Neild, were too good on defence and NPBHS were ineffective in front of the goal. In contrast, Stratford made the most of opportunities and converted two goals to lead 2-0 at half time.
Stratford settled down in the second half and finished the game 3-1 taking them through to the finals as well.
On Saturday Le Dejeuner Catering Avon played Northern Black for seventh and eight place. Coming away with a 3-1 loss, Avon did have a good season for a new team and saw vast improvements. Avon's goal was scored by Tim Neild and player of the day was Jono Kuriger.
Sandford's 4 Square Broadway played Hawera. Broadway started slow, down 3-1 at half time.
They stepped up in the second half for a 4-3 win to finish fifth for the season. Broadway's goals were by Tom Butler, Paul Mckeown, Brock Engelen, and Isa Butler-Mather. Isa was also Broadway's POTD. Sandford's 4 Square Stratford B women played a very good final against Te Kiri Women but Te Kiri proved to be the stronger team. Stratford's POTD was Katie Taylor. The finals are this weekend at the Stratford turf from 12pm.
