Can anyone knock off New South Wales?
That is the big question on everyone’s lips as we enter the final two days of the Hockey Australia Country Championships.
The 2023 edition entered a rest day on Thursday following five days of fast-paced and captivating action at Shepparton’s hockey centre and it’s given sides a chance to do last-minute reconnaissance on how to defeat NSW.
The Sky Blues sit undefeated in the men’s and women’s fixtures ahead of semi-final matches on Friday.
The two outfits have been ruthless on the Smurf Turf during the past week and both boast a superb goal difference of +18.
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At full stretch: NSW's Courtney Hogan. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 2 of 6
Winding up: QLD's Abby Eleison. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 3 of 6
On the move: NSW's Clare Bosman. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 4 of 6
In full flight: NSW's Hayley Fischer. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 5 of 6
In the zone: QLD's Alice Phillips. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 6 of 6
Quick pass: QLD's Dannan Findlay. Photo by Rechelle ZammitFriday’s action begins at 9am with Queensland set to take on Victoria in the men’s second semi-final, followed by the first semi between NSW and Western Australia at 1pm.
In the women’s semi-finals, Queensland takes on Australian Defence Force at 11am, followed by the NSW and Victoria clash at 3pm.
The gold medal matches will take place on Saturday, with the men’s final kicking off at 1pm and the women’s decider scheduled for 3pm.