Parkes travelled to Dubbo on Sunday to contest the 2021 Western Masters League Women's Hockey grand final against Dubbo, and unfortunately were dealt a cruel blow with a last-gasp 2-1 loss.
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The match was played at a very fast pace with both teams working hard in the first half to create attacking opportunities.
Both sides had chances to score through penalty corner opportunities but good defence from both sides ensured these chances were not converted.
Parkes goalkeeper, Amy Thornberry, was aggressive throughout the first half and ensured that Dubbo remained scoreless.
The score was nil-all at half time with some excellent play by both sides ensuring the crowd was kept entertained.
Both sides returned to the pitch after half time determined to be first to score.
Parkes stepped up their physicality in the second half, putting their bodies on the line to stop the momentum of the Dubbo attack.
Dubbo would be first to score midway through the first half, after Mel Wheatley jumped upon a loose ball on a penalty corner after the initial shot at goal was well saved.
Wheatley calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net to give her side a 1-nil lead.
Parkes struck back five minutes later after a good attacking raid resulted in a penalty corner after Janelle Thompson showed composure at the top of the circle and cracked the ball into the back of the net to level the scores at 1-all.
With eight minutes remaining in the match, Dubbo broke away down the right side of the field through Hollie Jones.
Jones showed a great turn of speed to drive to the circle and cross the ball to an unmarked Mel Wheatley for Wheatley to slot home her second of the match.
With two minutes remaining in the match, Parkes broke into attack with Teegan Rodgers driving to the circle in a one on one contest with the goalkeeper.
Rodgers was brought down by the keeper with Parkes players appealing for a penalty stroke, however only a penalty corner resulted.
Parkes were unable to convert the penalty corner opportunity with Dubbo then claiming a 2-1 victory.
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It was a bitter pilll for the Parkes players to swallow, but midfielder Denise Gersbach said she was still so proud of all her teammates.
"It was a great game of hockey and our girls played their hearts out," she said.
"So proud of them all."
It was a great game of hockey and our girls played their hearts out.
- Denise Gersbach
Dubbo player Tracey Hardie-Jones was delighted to get the win, not only because it capped a successful season but it was one secured by a group of close friends and it continued an exciting time for the sport in the city.
"It was a good feeling and good for Dubbo as we rebuild and get interest in the game and attract players," Hardie-Jones said.
The good times for Dubbo continued post-match, where Hollie Jones was named the league best and fairest.
"She's a very consistent player," Hardie-Jones said of Jones.
"Her stick work, skills and speed are really good," she said.
"Not every player has the whole package but Hollie definitely displayed it all season. She's a very capable player."
Best and Fairest points
- Parkes: Denise Gersbach, Amy Thornberry and Janelle Thompson
- Dubbo: Mel Wheatley, Tracy Sallustio and Debra Robinson
Player of the Match
- Midfielder Denise Gersbach
In addition to those awards, Amy Thornberry was voted Players Player for Parkes by her teammates after an impressive performance in goals.
Both sides wished to say thank you to the major sponsor of the competition, Devil's Hollow Brewery.
Parkes is hosting the Dubbo/Parkes Masters challenge on Sunday November 28.
The women will play at 10.45am followed by the men play at 12pm.
Given how the grand final panned out, you won't want to miss it!
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