Twilight Hockey Round 5: Possums, Kookaburras and Koalas Shine at Sawpit Gully Oval

It was a blustery afternoon at Sawpit Gully Oval, but the swirling winds did little to deter the twilight hockey teams, who delivered a spirited Round 5 of competition.

Spectators were treated to three tightly contested matches, each showcasing skill, determination, and flashes of brilliance.

The opening clash between the Possums and Koalas began cautiously, with both sides probing for opportunities as the ball moved end-to-end in the first quarter.

Koalas defender David Webster proved a formidable barrier, repeatedly shutting down Possums’ advances, while Kaydon Ryan and Tahlia McKay pressed hard in attack.

Momentum shifted in the second half when Edwina Planten threaded a precise pass into the circle, allowing Ally Read to slot home the first goal of the game.

Read continued to trouble the defence, setting up Brendan Sheppard for a second strike soon after.

Ruby Walsh impressed with her positioning, while Michelle Cronin contributed strongly at both ends of the field.

The Koalas rallied late, with Mitchell Bellingham breaking through to score in the final quarter. Despite their surge, the Possums held firm to secure a 2–1 victory.

The second match saw the Kookaburras face the Wombats, both sides initially short on numbers before Matthew and David Hall bolstered the line-ups.

Lucy Dunk worked tirelessly for the Wombats, disrupting Kookaburras’ forward movement, while Zeke Douglass showcased his finishing touch with two goals.

Super-sub David Hall added another, giving the Wombats a tally of three.

But the Kookaburras, leaders at the top of the table, demonstrated why they remain the benchmark.

With slick ball skills and seamless teamwork, Hannington Sibanda, Nothabo Sibanda, Adam Gunderson and Matthew Hall all found the goal.

Their collective effort sealed a thrilling 4–3 win.

In the final fixture, the Koalas returned to the field for their second game of the day, starting with pace and intent.

Jennifer McKay struck early, setting the tone for a dominant performance.

She combined effectively with Juninia Mahika and Melwyn Makana, who each added goals alongside contributions from Bellingham and Tahlia McKay.

The Emus, though outmatched, showed resilience.

Donna Burns anchored the defence with composure, while Jasper Meharg’s developing skills drew praise.

Hayley Saines ensured the Emus avoided a shutout, scoring a consolation goal. The Koalas finished emphatic 5–1 winners.

IMAGE: Haine Braddon and Mitchell Bellingham (Emus vs Koalas).

• Topics:

• Hockey