Thrilling Sunday Showdowns at Sawpit Gully Oval

Sunday afternoon brought scorching heat and sizzling action to Sawpit Gully Oval, where three nail‑biting contests kept spectators on edge until the final whistle.

Each game was fiercely contested, with momentum swinging back and forth and no shortage of standout performances.

The opening clash between the Kookaburras and Possums set the tone for the day. Junior talent shone brightly, with Ruby Walsh driving play downfield and James Read fearless in defence.

Kylan Williams‑Bellingham added strength for the Kookaburras, while Ally Read, Edwina Planten and Michael Walsh combined beautifully in attack.

Planten’s pinpoint pass to Ally Read produced the first goal, followed soon after by Read’s clever assist for Walsh.

Guided by Adam Gunderson, the Kookaburras surged in the second half. Dodee Ryan anchored the defence, while Joshua and Jude Sibanda showcased consistency and flair.

Spectacular strikes from Jude, Nothabo and Hannington Sibanda pushed the Kookaburras ahead, but Brendan Sheppard had the final say—slipping through defenders to score a solo effort that sealed a thrilling 3‑3 draw.

The second match was a battle of attrition between the Wombats and Emus, with both sides cancelling out each other’s advances.

The Emus relied on pace, Elijah and Izack Meharg racing up the wings to create chances. In midfield, William Byrnes and Greg Bannister engaged in a gripping duel, each winning key contests.

Faith Freeman and Jose Webber combined to push the ball into dangerous territory, with Webber capitalising in the third quarter to put the Emus ahead.

The Wombats pressed hard, but Donna Burns proved a defensive rock in the circle.

In the final quarter, Haine Braddon struck for the Emus, levelling the scores at 1‑1 and ensuring honours were shared.

The day’s finale was a goal‑fest between the Koalas and Kookaburras.

Kylan Williams‑Bellingham dazzled with a hat‑trick for the Koalas, matched by Nothabo Sibanda’s treble for the Kookaburras.

David Webster was once again a defensive wall for the Koalas, while Mitchell Bellingham impressed with his skillful ball movement.

Jennifer McKay’s tireless effort was rewarded with a fine goal in the circle.

But the Kookaburras found another gear after halftime.

Hannington, Joshua and Jude Sibanda added four more goals to their tally, swinging the contest in their favour.

Edwina Planten gave the Koalas late hope with a well‑taken strike, but the Kookaburras held firm to claim a 7‑5 victory in a pulsating finish.

IMAGE: Ally Read and Hannington Sibanda (Possums vs Kookaburras).

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• Hockey