Spring Twilight Hockey Round 4: Possums Dig Deep, Kookaburras Fly High, and Emus Start Strong in Action-Packed Afternoon

Last Sunday’s Round 4 of the Spring Twilight Hockey Competition unfolded under cool skies and high spirits, with three gripping matches that showcased the depth of talent, teamwork, and tenacity across all age groups.

From tight defensive contests to goal-heavy thrillers, the afternoon was a celebration of community sport at its finest.

The first match of the day saw the Possums take on the Wombats in a game defined by grit and defensive discipline.

Both teams began the match short on players, creating a wide-open field that allowed for fast transitions and plenty of space to move.

By the end of the first quarter, both sides had filled their ranks, and the contest quickly tightened.

From there, it became a tactical tug-of-war.

The Possums and Wombats each held their lines with determination, making it difficult for either side to find a clear path to goal.

It wasn’t until the second quarter that the deadlock was broken—Michael Walsh seized a rare opportunity and slotted the ball past the Wombats’ defence, giving the Possums a 1–0 lead.

The remainder of the match was a showcase of resilience and teamwork.

William Byrnes was a standout in defence for the Wombats, consistently shutting down attacking plays and holding the line under pressure.

On the offensive front, Lucy Dunk and Zeke Douglass worked tirelessly to push the ball forward, linking up well and creating chances that kept the Possums on alert.

As the clock ticked down, it looked like the Possums might hold on for a narrow win. But in a dramatic final-minute twist, super sub Joshua Sibanda found a gap in the defence and managed to slip the ball past Brendan Sheppard, levelling the score at 1–1 just as the final whistle blew.

It was a fitting end to a hard-fought match, with both teams walking away proud of their efforts.

The second match of the afternoon brought a change of pace as the Kookaburras and Koalas faced off in a fast, free-flowing contest filled with moments of brilliance.

From the outset, it was clear this would be a battle of speed, skill, and sharp decision-making, with both teams matching each other goal for goal.

Jennifer Mackay was a force to be reckoned with for the Koalas, covering ground across the field and doing her best to shut down the Kookaburras’ attacking momentum.

Her defensive efforts were matched by the creative flair of Melwyn Makana and Juninia Mahika, who moved the ball with precision and confidence.

Their link-up play helped drive the Koalas forward, culminating in a well-placed goal by Kylan Williamson-Bellingham.

Makana and Mahika each added a goal of their own, keeping the Koalas firmly in the contest.

The Kookaburras responded in kind, demonstrating exceptional teamwork and fluid ball movement.

Quick passes and clever positioning allowed them to outmanoeuvre the Koalas’ defence and create scoring opportunities.

Nothabo Sibanda, Jude Sibanda, and Joshua Sibanda each found the back of the goal, keeping the scoreboard neck and neck throughout the match.

As the final minutes approached, the Kookaburras managed to edge ahead, securing a thrilling 4–3 victory in a match that never let up.

The final game of the afternoon saw the Possums return to the field, this time facing off against the Emus in a match that began with high intensity and ended in a goal-scoring spectacle.

The Emus came out fast and strong, catching the Possums off guard with their early aggression.

Cooper Saines was quick to capitalise, picking up a loose ball in the circle and slotting it into the goal to give the Emus an early lead.

Izack Meharg and Elijah Meharg added to the pressure, moving the ball swiftly and proving a constant threat to the Possums’ weary defence.

But the tide turned in the second quarter.

The Possums found their rhythm and began to dominate possession.

Michael Walsh, Ally Read, Michelle Cronin, and Brendan Sheppard each found the back of the net, turning the momentum and putting the Possums firmly in control.

The second half was a masterclass in attacking hockey. James Read had a standout performance, weaving through defenders and positioning himself perfectly in the circle to score a hat-trick.

Annie Starr added a final flourish in the fourth quarter, bringing the Possums’ total to eight goals. Despite the scoreline, the Emus had their moments.

Greg Bannister was a standout in defence, holding off multiple attacks with composure, and Haine Braddon added a second goal for the Emus with a well-timed strike.

The final score was 8–2 in favour of the Possums, capping off a remarkable turnaround and a dominant display of teamwork. IMAGE: Kylan Williamson-Bellingham and Joshua Sibanda (Koalas vs Kookaburras).

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