Lithgow Panthers won the match-up 2-0, securing a grand final on home ground. 

It was the first time in 23 women’s Premier League Hockey games that Bathurst City finished on nil goals. 

However, it was Bathurst City that dominated the attacking chances in the first 10 minutes of the game. 

Panthers goalkeeper Bailey Stanies saved a goal attempt by City's Jess Hotham.

Panthers first penalty corner of the match found reward with a powerful Amanda Saladine strike.

Just before half-time City had another chance from a penalty corner as the team’s coach Lisa Quinn deflected an initial strike, but the ball hit the side of the goal.

Leading 1-0 at half-time, Panthers pushed further ahead midway through the second stanza as a penalty corner play again paid dividends.

The initial shot was blocked, but the ball found its way to Amy Dewar on the back post and she slotted it home.

City had its chances as time ticked down – at one point the ball chipped over goalie Bailey Staines but a Panthers’ defender cleared it on the line.

“The first half was a bit more competitive and Bathurst City came out really hard. In the second half we knew we just had to step it up a bit and play our game,” Panthers’ Katie Dowler said.

Dowler commended Bailey Staines’ performance. Staines stepped up for Jess Luchetti, unable to play the semi-final because she was representing NSW at the Australian Country Championships in Townsville. 

“We had to control it in the midfield, we had a few players out so we had to try something a bit different. Bailey was great for us, she’s a great keeper and is going to be something special.”

Bathurst City coach Lisa Quinn said she was surprised by the outcome. 

“I had all faith we were going to come away with the win today,” she said.

Panthers will play the grand finals against the preliminary final winner on Saturday, August 26. 

LITHGOW PANTHERS 2 (Amanda Saladine, Amy Dewar) defeated BATHURST CITY 0