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Riffs prove too strong for All Blacks in Upper Great Southern Hockey Association men’s title

Rodney JohnsonNarrogin Observer
2020 UGSHA men's A-grade premiers, Riffs.
Camera Icon2020 UGSHA men's A-grade premiers, Riffs. Credit: Emma Taylor

Riffs are the 2020 Upper Great Southern Hockey Association men’s A-grade premiers after they defeated All Blacks at Narrogin Hockey Turf on Saturday.

Riffs got away to a great start, scoring in the first two minutes of the game through Dane Angwin.

Riffs’ Roger Ballard strikes the ball, with as All Blacks’ Tristan Lock defends.
Camera IconRiffs’ Roger Ballard strikes the ball, with as All Blacks’ Tristan Lock defends. Credit: Emma Taylor

All Blacks responded only minutes later to level the score when Sam Broad found the back of the net off a penalty stroke.

The game then became a battle of the midfields with both teams working overtime, the score remaining at 1-1 at quarter-time.

Riffs’ David Lange looks up field.
Camera IconRiffs’ David Lange looks up field. Credit: Emma Taylor

In the second quarter, Riffs had more ball possession and numerous attacking moves.

Rhett Ballard slotted a good strong shot that found the back of the net, giving Riffs a 2-1 lead heading into half-time.

All Blacks’ Connor Page tries to gather possession.
Camera IconAll Blacks’ Connor Page tries to gather possession. Credit: Emma Taylor

All Blacks tried to put the pressure on Riffs in the second half but Riffs had all the answers.

Ballard continued to go about his business for Riffs, netting his second goal to hand Riffs a 3-1 lead going into the last term.

The victorious Riffs shake hands with the All Blacks after the game.
Camera IconThe victorious Riffs shake hands with the All Blacks after the game. Credit: Emma Taylor

Riffs continued to have control of the ball for most of the last quarter, with All Blacks having brief bursts of play.

Riffs ran out 3-1 victors to secure premiership glory.

All Blacks Connor Page traps the ball.
Camera IconAll Blacks Connor Page traps the ball. Credit: Emma Taylor

Grady Francis was named most valuable player in the decider for his role in the win.

Earlier in the day, Warriors defeated Dumbleyung 2-1 in the men’s B-grade decider, with Warrirors’ Steven Durrell named the MVP.

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