By Jonty Ralphsmith
Casey’s men have progressed to the semi-finals of the Men’s Vic League 2 competition with a 4-3 elimination final win over Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation (ECHO).
The Cannons fell behind three times in a seesawing battle at Elgar Park, Box Hill, but a converted short corner to Tristan Chaffey late in the last quarter gave Casey the lead for the first time on the day.
Despite ECHO pressing hard in the dying stages, Casey defended well to secure victory.
Chaffey scored a hattrick, while captain Craig Moore also scored a crucial stabilising goal.
“It was an arm wrestle right through but we stuck to our game plan and that created a few opportunities for us,” coach Steve Noney said.
“The style of hockey we’re playing and feel around the group is quite good – we’re certainly building something good for the future.
“We’ve got a lot of experience through the team and a wave of youth coming through so those older guys showing leadership and putting confidence in the younger ones is probably the highlight for me to develop the 200-300-game players.
“We’re trying to create an environment for people to learn, play good hockey and enjoy it.”
Moore, Chaffey and Rhylee Johnson were the best players on the day
The game was stalwart defender Cam Ritchie’s 250th for the Cannons, with the coach heaping praise on him.
“He’s consistent and leads the backline, giving feedback to all the guys in a positive way and is a true club person and is massive to the team so it’s good. His leadership of the backline is invaluable and is a very much appreciated member of the team,” Noney said.
The men’s unit will take on Craigieburn at the state hockey centre on Saturday in another do-or-die game. The Cannons lost to the minor premiers 4-3 earlier in the season before a 1-1 draw to finish the home-and-away season two weeks ago.
Meanwhile, the women’s season came to a close on Saturday, going down 2-1 to third-placed Geelong.
The Cannons conceded a penalty stroke early in the second quarter and another goal five minutes later from a short corner which had them playing catch-up in the second half.
Sam Wagg found the back of the net at the 55-minute-mark which sparked hope for the visitors, but they ultimately fell short in a tense battle.
