Rachel streams down the under-13s field. Photo: David Keen.
There were huge efforts and some well-earned goals this week for the Tigers in round 10 of the Goulburn Valley Hockey Association.
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Under 13s vs GVGS
William passes to Rachel after a run towards the under-13s goal. Photo: Lee Manning.
The Benalla under-13s put in a fantastic performance against ladder leaders GVGS, in what may be the grand-final precursor.
Goalie Hayden was outstanding, confidently stopping a number of dangerous shots with great composure under pressure and showing off quick reactions against the nimble GVGS.
Captain Finn was superb in defence, directing the team in the circle and preventing numerous scoring opportunities with strong, well-timed tackles.
Phoenix excelled in the defensive midfield, calling, finding space and driving the team forward with powerful hits that regularly broke through the opposition.
Madeleine was outstanding in the attacking midfield, breaking up GVGS attacks with quick tackles before turning defence into attack with strong passes up to Rachel who created attacking opportunities with clever positioning and skilful runs, using her stick work to beat defenders and keep the pressure on.
On the wings, Sophie was a constant attacking threat, using her speed and stick skills to weave past defenders and create opportunities every time she touched the ball, while Charlee tirelessly ran in support, with multiple smart tackles turning the ball Benalla’s way.
At centre forward, William never gave up, working hard to win possession and scoring a terrific goal against strong defence.
The team continues to grow, very ably holding second place on the ladder despite the 2-1 loss.
Goals: William Keen 1.
Umpire best and fairest votes: 3 - Hayden Littler, 2 - Finn Thompson, 1 - Rachel Erickson.
Under 16s BYE
Women’s SYC vs Mooroopna
Benalla exports Amber Armstrong, Heidi Perry, Lee Manning and Jacinta Woodward have suited up for SYC in 2026. Photo: Tayah Irwin.
It was a fierce competition in the women’s game against Mooroopna, with two early goals ramping up the intensity.
SYC scored in the second quarter, reinvigorating the team for further effort.
Captain Amber put in tremendous effort as a full- and half-back, running down the opposition and strongly defending the circle all game, as well as encouraging others.
As the complementary half-back, Jacinta powered through strong defence to carry the ball out into SYC’s attacking half multiple times, supporting some good runs forwards.
Heidi and Lee teamed up as left forwards, with good positioning for rebounds and through the centre, but were bested by the youth and speed of Mooroopna, who won 6-1.