Redbacks Snatch Victory in Dramatic Grand Final Finish

On Sunday, the winter hockey season reached its thrilling conclusion as the minor premiers, the Vikings, faced off against the 2024 premiers, the Redbacks, in a grand final showdown that lived up to its promise.

The opening stages were evenly contested, with the Vikings posing an early threat. Michael Adams went close to scoring but was denied by the sharp reflexes of goalkeeper Conan Scott.

In midfield, Tracy Lamb worked tirelessly to steady her side, while Kerri Palmer covered vast ground in defence.

Paul Robertson also impressed, driving the Vikings forward and breaking through the Redbacks’ backline.

The standout, however, was Vikings goalkeeper Adam Gunderson, who proved to be a near-impenetrable wall.

With the combined defensive efforts of David Webster, Adams, Robertson, William Byrnes, Thomas Pickering and Aiden Gunderson, the Vikings repeatedly shut down a relentless series of Redbacks short corners.

Their grit and determination kept the scoreboard locked.

The Redbacks, however, began to dominate in the second half, applying constant pressure. Michael Killick was instrumental in winning back possession, while Ned Mullany consistently pushed his side forward.

Luke Cosgrove, Tom Wills and Zac Williams linked up effectively to earn numerous short corners, though the Vikings’ defence held strong.

Utility player Edwina Planten proved invaluable for the Redbacks, shifting seamlessly across multiple positions and demonstrating her adaptability throughout the match.

At full time, the score remained deadlocked at 0-0, forcing the game into extra time.

Both teams battled fiercely through the first 10 minutes, neither able to break the deadlock.

The Vikings’ hopes took a blow when star midfielder Tracy Lamb suffered a hand injury, seeing the end of her grand final pursuit. The final 10 minutes saw the Redbacks pile on the pressure yet again, but the Vikings’ defence held.

With just 30 seconds left, Cosgrove sent the ball into the circle, where Gunderson suddenly faced a three-on-one.

Zac Williams manoeuvred around the goalie and slipped the ball across to Planten, who coolly slotted home the decisive goal just moments before the final whistle.

The Redbacks celebrated a dramatic 1-0 victory, reclaiming the title of 2025 premiers. Despite the heartbreaking finish, the Vikings can hold their heads high after a gritty and courageous performance.

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• Hockey