Peaks play solid to retain top spot

Manypeaks have retained top spot in the Lower Great Southern Hockey Association men’s A-grade standings after a hard-fought 3-2 victory against North Albany on Saturday afternoon at the hockey turf in Albany.

The first half saw Peaks control the tempo, which culminated in three penalty corners in the first 15 minutes with David Pyle converting on the third one to put Peaks ahead 1-0.

Redbacks were playing a defensive style of hockey which only brought about a handful of opportunities through fast-paced counterattacks while Peaks were offering a more balanced game that generated plenty of shots on goal.

Peaks again had a majority of the possession in the second half and with 24 minutes left Reece Curwen scored a magnificent goal from just inside the attacking circle.

Redbacks continued to threaten Peaks on the counter and when Robbie Marshall managed to scoop the keeper with 16 minutes it was only a one-goal deficit. However, two minutes later Curwen managed another classy goal for Peaks to extend their lead.

Ashley Eikelboom netted a late goal for the Redbacks but it wasn’t enough to overcome the top side, who sit one point clear of Spencer Park.

David Pyle and Kieran Howie were solid for Peaks while Karel Cronje and Tom Dineen worked hard all day for the Redbacks.

In the other men’s fixture, Spencer Park overcame a spirited Tigers outfit to win 1-0 and stay in touch with Peaks at the top of the LGSHA standings. Nick Bradbury managed Parks’ only goal for the game while Henry Marsh, Jack Johnson and Fletcher Kent were among the team’s better players.

For Tigers, Heath Cremasco, Neil Ferreira and Byson Attrill toiled hard but could not penetrate the sturdy defence of Park.