Parkes United’s chances of making the semi-finals of the womens Western Premier League hockey competition took a big hit last Saturday when they conceded a goal in the final moments of their match on Stephen Davies Field.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
In a tough match against Bathurst City, United dominated most facets and were devastated to let a 2-1 lead slip with only a minute to go, allowing City to claim a 2-all draw.
United produced one of their best first halves of the season.
A brilliant 35 minutes saw the home side using all the players on the field in an excellent team performance.
They were rewarded with two goals.
In the 15th minute, Parkes moved the ball down the right side of the field with controlled possession.
Well-timed passes from their defensive 25 up to their attacking circle saw Jess Ross on hand to finish off a great attacking move and give Parkes a 1-0 lead.
United continued to dominate in attack, forcing the City defence to scramble in their efforts to hold the home side out.
In the 25th minute, India Draper was on the end of a nice left side play.
The young attacker showed composure in the circle beyond her years and knocked the ball past the City keeper to score and secure Parkes a 2-0 half time lead.
Parkes started the stronger of the two teams in the second half and were disappointed when Bathurst City were awarded a controversial goal.
The umpire judged the ball to have fully crossed the Parkes goal line despite the United players protesting it did not.
Parkes did not let the disappointment put them off their game as they continued to drive forward in attack.
Speedsters Paige Hay and Niamh Dixon made several incisive attacking runs, but none resulted in goals.
The home side’s domination came to nought with one minute remaining on the clock.
City stole the ball from the Parkes defence and were quick to drive towards the circle.
They fired a shot away which flew past United goalkeeper Amy Thornberry to draw the match.
Nic Knox was outstanding in defence for United and was a popular choice for Players’ Player honours.
Best and Fairest points were awarded to Knox and Niamh Dixon.
Coach Aaron Huppatz was thrilled with his side’s performance.
“Today saw some of the best hockey we have played as a team for 18 months,” Huppatz said.
“The girls were brilliant right across the park.
“To finish with a draw after such a great effort seems an injustice and was disappointing for all of us.
“City were equal first going into this match, so we know we can compete with the best sides.
“However, we need to be able to close out games when we are in front.
“This comes with experience, so it is something the girls will improve on in the next few years,” he said.
Parkes head into the final round equal fifth with Dubbo Bluejays with who earns the final position in the semi-finals coming down to this Saturday’s result.
United travel to Lithgow to take on the defending premiers and league leaders Panthers, while Dubbo host bottom of the table Lithgow Zig Zag.
