The critical hour is arriving for both Panthers men and women, gearing up to play the grand final matches at Lithgow Hockey Club on Saturday, August 26.
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Panthers men looking for a repeat grand final win against Bathurst Souths, after their successful home-ground performance in 2016.
“Yeah, all the guys are pretty excited. They are rearing to go,” coach David Marshall said.
For the first time this year, Panthers will have their full squad on hand.
“Yeah, Nic Milne will be back as well as Brandon Horner. Nathan Mitchell will be playing after six weeks off due to a hamstring injury.”
Souths’ Kieran Gentles impressed last week in the preliminary final against St Pat’s. Sydney duo Nick McEwan and Nathan Burke will also be an important pair to take on.
Marshall said the team would be concentrating on maintaining their usual system.
“Keeping the ball nice and short and supporting the ball carrier as much as we can. And making the most of those chances when we get them,” he said.
Mr Marshall said he was very confident in his team’s ability to command a win.
“We have beaten Souths twice this year, but there have been teams that go through undefeated and then lose in the finals,” he said.
“They have got a very good mid-field, so we'll be targeting that with our defensive players.”
Panthers have contested 16 grand finals over 18 years. Due to Panthers outstanding Premier League record, many on the team have played up to eleven grand finals.
“It’ll be good having those blokes to help. There’s always nerves and they’ll be able to settle the young guys before the game.”
The Lithgow heavyweights are playing for their eleventh premiership win.
“Whatever happens we’ll be celebrating quite hard or commiserating quite hard,” Marshall warned.
“We grew up playing Souths players so there’s a lot of respect on both sides.”
- Panthers women will take on Bathurst City at 1.30pm on Saturday, the men will face Bathurst Souths at 3pm.
- Funds raised on the day will go to the McGrath Foundation, so wearing pink (with purple) is encouraged.