Goulburn Valley Hockey Association’s A-grade competition wraps up Saturday, with Strikers seeking back-to-back premierships at Shepparton Regional Hockey Complex.
In fact, Strikers have qualified for all three senior finals in the association this year, with their B-grade men’s and women’s teams vying to complete a sweep of the silverware across Saturday’s play.
After completing consecutive undefeated regular seasons ― one draw in 2022, two in 2023 ― there is no shortage of confidence from the Strikers camp, as evidenced by the words of playing coach Xavier McBain.
“Yeah, spirits are definitely high at Strikers. It’s always exciting coming into finals, but Strikers are confident with picking up another win,” McBain said with a laugh.
One can make no mistake, however, there will be no room for complacency against an Echuca-Moama side that posted only a single victory in season 2023, failing to beat Strikers in that time.
“It’s been a challenging season; everyone’s getting back into the swing of things with hockey,” McBain said.
“Echuca-Moama are a good team, not to put their record down. They’re still a very competitive team, but we’re confident about where we’re currently sitting.
“Everyone comes to play in finals time, so it will be a challenging game. We’re expecting them to bring their best, but we’ll be doing everything to produce our best as well.”
McBain firmly believes that Strikers’ best is enough to have another trophy added to a rapidly expanding cabinet.
“We had a couple of draws with players off playing in Melbourne, that kind of thing, and I think we should be able to knock (Echuca-Moama) off definitely,” McBain said.
Finals action from Shepparton Regional Hockey Complex kicks off at 12.30pm with Strikers and SYC in men’s B-grade action, followed by two straight match-ups pitting Strikers against Echuca-Moama.
The women’s B-grade begins at 2.15pm before the men’s A-grade takes centre stage at 4pm.