OHA’s second win over University in 2019 had to be achieved with an unwell Nick Leslie on the sidelines. Hopefully he’ll be back on pitch next week. With Nick coaching from the bench, the match was especially notable for the much-hoped-for 2019 return of midfield superstar Kurt Mackey, whose presence clearly lifted the team spirit. “Tickets” was immediately on song, with his strength, telling pace through the midfield, and intelligent passing as joyous to watch as ever.
Ollie and Will Smith both played fine games and Ollie put the icing on the cake with a trademark reverse stick goal from a tight angle. Ollie and Henry C had been in Canberra last week at a Hockey Australia development camp and both showed immediate benefits from that high-level training opportunity.
Harry Winch also continued his good form at the PC line with a drag-flick goal. But the main honours in attack went to Sam McCambridge, who recaptured top form with a hat-trick, including a sensational deflection in front of the Uni ‘keeper. It happened so fast that the mug with the camera (aka Ian) completely missed it, so you’ll have to make do with the celebration photos for that one (and the must-see replay on the Premier League Facebook site when released during the week).
Sam’s other two goals were pushed in from close range, one from a loose rebound off an Alex Moir shot, and one from a nice baseline run and pass across the circle from Jez Walter. Those goals we did manage to catch with the lens! Sam also created a couple of more chances that came close to scoring. University’s PCs were well defended at the other end, and two goals were no match for OHA’s five.
Nick Leslie congratulated his charges post game (as they downed fresh cookies courtesy of Kath) and reminded them of the challenge to keep that form up in the coming weeks. OHA lifts to 5th place, and needs consistent wins to challenge for the top four. I hope this isn’t too rambling, but it was hard not to get excited by this win!
