Title favourites Spencer Park advance to grand final following come-from-behind semi victory over Manypeaks

Spencer Park continued their dominance in the Lower Great Southern Hockey Association men’s competition, fighting back from a goal down to win their semifinal against Manypeaks on Saturday. Peaks were hoping to record an upset win and hit the scoresheet in the early stages of the first quarter but a resilient Park outfit rallied with three consecutive goals to claim a 3-1 triumph. Hard-working youngster Hayden Mills opened the account for Peaks early, converting a superb tomahawk goal from open play. However, Park responded shortly afterwards, with Alex Fergie executing a pinpoint pass to classy striker Brock Keymer, who converted at the back post to level the scores. In the second period there was a grapple for ascendancy with Park unable to convert a penalty corner at the 11th minute and Peaks missing an opportunity from their own penalty corner with seven minutes left to play. With both sides locked in a tussle, Park shifted into another gear in the third quarter, earning two penalty corners in quick succession before captain Darren Parkes smashed his shot into the back of the net in the 41st minute. James Leiper doubled Park’s advantage just three minutes later, converting his chance from a penalty corner to put the game to bed. Parkes was outstanding in an attacking role while Fergie provided plenty of support in defence and attack and Leiper and Keymer also impressed. For Peaks, Mills was lively throughout the contest, creating several chances while completing runs under pressure and he was well supported by Mitch Bradbury and Taylor Pocock. Park advance directly to the grand final and will await the winner of Peaks v North Albany in this Saturday’s preliminary final.