Margaret River came away with a strong, hard fought 2-1 win over Countrys, a team who has proven difficult to beat in recent matches.
The first half saw both teams locking horns and battling it out.
Countrys always rely on long, hard passes out of defence to their speedy forwards and Margaret River fell into the trap of trying to match this style of play throughout the scoreless first half.
The half-time discussion urged players not to match Countrys’ style, but to play intelligent hockey by keeping possession through short, quick passing, leading to space, attacking down the right-hand side and making more use of the centre-half to mount effective attacks on goal.
Early in the second half, Matt Bycroft scored from a penalty corner after a sustained period of attack, and then came the play of the day in a classic two-on- one situation involving Brad Yates and Clint Gartrell resulting in a brilliant field goal from Yates to extend the lead to 2-0.
Defensive errors let Countrys back into the game later in the half, but despite some desperate attempts from them, Margaret River maintained their structure and composure to run out winners.
Outstanding efforts came from Ben Van-Overdijk making good leads and playing with tenacity and vision.
Likewise, Blake Smith put in a massive second half by reading the play and passing well.
Tyron Bradshaw was a very dangerous attacking player who gave his all by leading well and effectively positioning himself, and giving the early ball to maintain pressure on Countrys’ defence.
Luke Altmann and Bycroft played with tenacity, providing drive for the team.
Margaret River proved that they are a team to be reckoned with.
Next week is a bye for Margaret River, followed by the annual Country Hockey Championships in Perth the week after.
