Lucas Hockey Club

🏑 LUCAS HC – GRAND FINAL DAY 2026 🏑

What a way to finish the 2026 season!

Five Lucas HC teams took to the pitch on Grand Final Day, from our Under 11s first thing in the morning through to our Division 2 Men bringing the curtain down on a huge day for the Club.

Once again, a massive thank you to Kerryn Parkinson for capturing some fantastic images of our teams, players and supporters across Grand Final Day!

Here’s how Grand Final Day unfolded...
_____________________________
🏑 Under 11s Vs Bobcats Maroon

Once again, our Under 11s delivered when the pressure was on, producing one of their best team performances of the season in a thrilling 1-1 Grand Final draw against minor premiers Bobcats Maroon.

The Lucas HC defence was under plenty of pressure early, with Annabelle Rowland at her tenacious best and goalkeeper Evora Davis making a series of important saves.

As the game settled, the dynamic duo of Noah Gambino and Heidi Shepherd helped change the momentum. Lucas HC began spending considerably more time in attack, with Ruby Hargreaves producing perhaps her most influential performance of the season and Kushil Niwas doing an excellent job helping keep the ball in the attacking half.

With the scores locked at 0-0 at half-time, the stage was set for a tense finish.

Jonte Pougnault made his presence felt through the midfield, while Jonny Hargreaves continued to find space in attack. Midway through the second half, Heidi Shepherd finally broke the deadlock with a superb long-range goal.

Bobcats Maroon showed why they finished as minor premiers, pushing hard and finding an equaliser with less than five minutes remaining.

Lucas HC continued to attack in search of a winner, but the Bobcats defence held firm and the game finished 1-1. Under the competition rules, Bobcats Maroon were awarded the premiership based on their higher end-of-season ladder position.

Our Under 11s could hardly have finished their season in better fashion. Even under Grand Final pressure, they trusted their trademark passing game and produced perhaps their most even team performance of the year, with every player making an important contribution.

Goal: Heidi Shepherd.

Congratulations also to Heidi Shepherd, who was awarded Best-on-Ground in the Grand Final by the umpires. A fantastic achievement!
_____________________________
🏑 Under 14s Vs Blaze Orange

Our Under 14s faced the toughest assignment in the competition, taking on an undefeated Blaze Orange side in their Grand Final.

Lucas HC certainly wasn’t overawed by the occasion, competing strongly from the outset and generating a couple of early scoring opportunities before Blaze Orange opened the scoring.

Oakley Oxlade and Noah Gambino were superb defensively, making their opponents work hard for opportunities, while Jordan Shepherd, Toby Dean and Mietta Gambino were productive through the midfield. Their work provided Heidi Shepherd, Mack Hargreaves and Xavier Parkinson with opportunities in attack.

Trailing 0-3 at half-time, Lucas HC came out determined to make an impact in the second half.

A penalty corner goal to Jordan Shepherd provided the reward and breathed some life into the contest, with Lucas HC quickly earning another two penalty corner opportunities.

Morgan Edgar and Ryan Parkinson both finished the match strongly and were important contributors to an excellent second-half showing.

Blaze Orange ultimately claimed the premiership with a 5-1 victory, but there was plenty for Lucas HC to be proud of. In fact, our Under 14s may well have produced their most complete team performance of the season on Grand Final Day – and there aren’t many better times to play your best hockey!

Goal: Jordan Shepherd.
_____________________________
🏑 Under 16s Vs Blaze

Our Under 16 Grand Final was an intriguing contest, with momentum shifting between Lucas HC and Blaze throughout the match.

Lucas HC started superbly. Caleb Hiller and Henry Beechey controlled the midfield, allowing Harley Shepherd and Lachie Hargreaves to find plenty of the ball in attack.

In the blink of an eye, Lucas HC had raced to a 2-0 lead, with Lucas Jones, Morgan Edgar and Reuben Pougnault all playing important roles in the excellent start.

But you can never discount an opponent in a Grand Final.

Blaze lifted late in the first half, scoring twice in the final five minutes to send the teams into the break level at 2-2.

What followed was an incredibly even second half. Blaze eventually found the breakthrough to take a 3-2 lead, leaving Lucas HC chasing the game.

The Lucas HC midfield and attack threw everything at finding an equaliser as the clock wound down, but a disciplined Blaze defence refused to give way.

Blaze eventually took the premiership by the narrowest of margins, 3-2.

A tough result for our Under 16s, but an outstanding contest and another Lucas HC team that could walk from the pitch knowing they had given everything in the biggest game of the season.

Goals: Harley Shepherd, Lachie Hargreaves.
_____________________________
🏑 Division 1 Men Vs EGC

The entertaining, high-scoring Division 1 finals series continued right through to the Grand Final, with Lucas HC and EGC producing another action-packed contest.

Lucas HC started in compelling fashion, with Hayden Staggard, Nathan Hargreaves and Lachie Hargreaves providing plenty of ball from midfield into the attacking circle.

Michael Churcher opened the scoring with a clinical penalty corner conversion before EGC responded with the next three goals to establish a two-goal advantage.

Lucas HC continued to create chances, with James Van der Schyff and Tom Batchelor threatening the EGC defence. Ryan Geddes and Zoe Klopak provided plenty of counter-attacking drive, while the hard-running Traiyth Leffler gave Lucas HC width going forward.

Late goals in the second quarter to Van der Schyff and Nathan Hargreaves saw Lucas HC fight all the way back to 3-3 at half-time.

The third quarter ultimately proved decisive. EGC converted its opportunities to re-establish a two-goal advantage, while Lucas HC continued to generate chances but repeatedly found the EGC defence standing in the way.

A sixth EGC goal midway through the final quarter put the result beyond reach, but Lucas HC continued attacking until the final whistle in an effort to breathe some late life into the contest.

EGC taking out an entertaining Grand Final 6-3.

Goals: Michael Churcher, Nathan Hargreaves, James Van der Schyff.
_____________________________
🏑 Division 2 Men Vs Grampians

And then there was one more game to play...

Based on the two close contests between Lucas HC and Grampians during the home-and-away season, the Division 2 Grand Final had all the ingredients of a blockbuster.

The opening stages certainly lived up to that billing. Neither side could gain a clear advantage, with both midfields making it difficult to pe*****te the attacking circles.

Towards the end of the opening quarter, Lucas HC began creating turnovers through the excellent work of Caleb Hiller, Damon Shepherd and Henry Beechey. That eventually released Andy Marshall for a one-on-one with the Grampians goalkeeper – and Marshall made no mistake to open the scoring.

Lucas HC continued to build in the second quarter. Liv Hargreaves, Reuben Pougnault, Lachie Naylor, Lucas Jones and Harley Shepherd began finding more of the ball, while Luke Pougnault, Michael Van Dord and goalkeeper Nick Hargreaves combined beautifully in defence to shut down Grampians' attacking moves.

Damon Shepherd converted a penalty corner rebound to make it 2-0 before Grampians responded. A late Jason Hargreaves goal restored the two-goal advantage heading into half-time.

Then came a third quarter to remember.

Lucas HC produced arguably its best hockey of the entire season. Beechey and Hiller dominated through the midfield, while Mack Hargreaves and Jordan Shepherd made excellent use of the space in attack.

Three goals – to Marshall, Damon Shepherd and Hiller – were the reward for a flawless quarter of hockey.

Marshall then completed his Grand Final hat-trick early in the fourth with a genuine contender for goal of the year!

Grampians continued to attack and added two late goals of their own, but this was Lucas HC’s day.

Final score: Lucas HC 7, Grampians 3.

Premiers in their first season!

Goals: Andy Marshall 3, Damon Shepherd 2, Jason Hargreaves, Caleb Hiller.

Congratulations also to Damon Shepherd, who was awarded Best-on-Ground by the umpires after an outstanding Grand Final performance.
_____________________________
🏆 HOCKEY BALLARAT AWARDS 🏆

Grand Final Day also brought some fantastic individual recognition for Lucas HC, with three Club members receiving major Hockey Ballarat Association awards for their outstanding 2026 seasons.

Congratulations to:
🏑 Seb Pougnault – Annie Anderson Best Goalkeeper Award
🏑 Jordan Shepherd – Under 14 Best and Fairest
🏑 Ryan Geddes – Michael Poulton Medal, Men’s Division 1 Best and Fairest

Three fantastic achievements and thoroughly deserved recognition for brilliant seasons. Congratulations Seb, Jordan and Ryan!
_____________________________
💜 MORE THAN THE SCOREBOARD 💜

And with that, another Lucas HC season comes to an end.

Grand Finals are special. They are exciting to play in, fantastic to win and, as we experienced a few times on Saturday, pretty tough to lose.

But premierships have never been the most important measure of success at Lucas HC.

Success is the player who has found the confidence to execute a skill they wouldn’t have attempted at the start of the year.

It’s juniors stepping up to play senior hockey alongside teammates they once watched from the sidelines.

It’s parents, partners, families and friends spending their weekends at the hockey ground.

It’s coaches, managers, umpires and volunteers giving their time so others can enjoy the game.

It’s the friendships formed on the pitch and on the sidelines.

It’s welcoming new people into our Club, watching young players develop, seeing experienced players pass on what they know, and having generations of families sharing the same love of hockey.

That’s what makes Lucas HC successful.

Well done to all members and supporters on another very successful season for Lucas Hockey Club!

Final reminder for Grand final dinner please RSVP here or Heja by tonight if you haven’t already.

🏑 LUCAS HC – SEMI-FINAL MATCH REPORTS 🏑

What a weekend of finals hockey for Lucas HC! Six teams took to the pitch across Semi-Final weekend, with five earning their place in the Grand Final. From the Under 11s rediscovering their trademark passing game, to an Under 14 shootout thriller and some outstanding performances from our senior Men, there was plenty to celebrate. Unfortunately, our Women’s season came to an end after a hard-fought Semi-Final, but they can be enormously proud of their efforts throughout the season.

A massive thank-you to Kerryn Parkinson for the brilliant collection of images captured across Semi-Final weekend – they provide a fantastic record of a memorable weekend for Lucas HC!
______________________________
Under 11s Vs Bobcats White

The famed Lucas HC Under 11 passing game is officially back!

Our youngest Lucas HC team produced some excellent hockey in their Semi-Final against Bobcats White, with their willingness to share the ball and use the available space proving decisive in a high-quality junior contest.

Noah Gambino produced perhaps his best Under 11 performance yet, continually picking up loose balls and confidently carrying the ball into attack. His hard work was rewarded with two goals in a terrific individual display.

Heidi Shepherd and Jonte Pougnault were prolific through the midfield, helping Lucas HC move the ball quickly from defence into attack. Annabelle Rowland and Pougnault were also composed when called upon defensively, while Ruby Hargreaves and Kushil Niwas worked hard through the midfield.

Up forward, Jonny Hargreaves was a constant threat and added an important goal, while Evora Davis provided a steady presence in the net.

Lucas HC holding firm to take out a fantastic 3-2 Semi-Final victory and book a spot in the big one!

Goals: Noah Gambino 2, Jonny Hargreaves.

🏆 Grand Final: Saturday 5 September – 8:30am Vs Bobcats Maroon.
______________________________
Under 14s Vs EGC

If finals hockey is meant to be tense, our Under 14s certainly got the memo!

In officially the closest contest of the entire Semi-Final weekend, Lucas HC and EGC could not be separated during regulation time. Both teams worked tirelessly to create opportunities, but neither could find the back of the net – sending the match into a one-on-one shootout to determine who would progress to the Grand Final.

Jordan Shepherd was influential through the midfield, while Mietta Gambino also worked hard in the middle of the pitch. Noah Gambino and Oakley Oxlade stood tall defensively, with Ryan Parkinson providing plenty of energy in attack.

Then came the shootout.

Jordan Shepherd and Morgan Edgar both held their nerve superbly to convert their one-on-one opportunities. Goalkeeper Seb Pougnault expertly guarded the net, shutting out EGC and sealing a 2-0 shootout victory for Lucas HC.

A scoreless match followed by a shootout – finals hockey doesn't get much tighter than that!

Shootout goals: Jordan Shepherd, Morgan Edgar.

🏆 Grand Final: Saturday 5 September – 9:30am Vs Blaze Orange.
______________________________
Under 16s Vs EGC

Our Under 16s booked their Grand Final berth with a 3-0 Semi-Final victory over EGC.

Lucas HC controlled the match from the outset, maintaining possession in the attacking half for the majority of the contest and continually applying pressure to the EGC defence.

The Lucas HC midfield was at the heart of the performance. Caleb Hiller, Lachie Hargreaves, Henry Beechey, Zara Staggard and Harley Shepherd combined to control the middle of the pitch, making it difficult for EGC to build sustained attacking momentum.

That dominance eventually translated to the scoreboard, with Hiller, Beechey and Hargreaves each finding the back of the net.

A disciplined and composed finals performance from the Under 16s, who now head into the Grand Final in excellent form.

Goals: Caleb Hiller, Henry Beechey, Lachie Hargreaves.

🏆 Grand Final: Saturday 5 September – 10:45am Vs Blaze.
______________________________
Division 2 Men Vs EGC Gold

Our Division 2 Men continued their outstanding season with an impressive 6-0 Semi-Final victory over EGC Gold.

The young Lucas HC midfield handled the pressure of senior finals hockey superbly, showing composure and maturity throughout the match. Harley Shepherd, Damon Shepherd, Henry Beechey, Jordan Shepherd and Michael Van Dord all played important roles as Lucas HC controlled the middle of the pitch.

The ball movement into attack was a real feature, continually forcing the EGC Gold defence to work hard. Caleb Hiller and Mack Hargreaves were dangerous in attacking roles, with Lucas HC making the most of its opportunities to build a commanding advantage.

The match also marked the return of Luke Pougnault following a month-long injury layoff. Pougnault wasted no time making his presence felt, having an impact defensively before becoming an important part of the Lucas HC penalty corner combination – and finding the net twice!

Lachie Naylor was another strong contributor in defence as Lucas HC completed an excellent all-round team performance.

A six-goal victory, a clean sheet and plenty of momentum to take into the Grand Final!

Goals: Jason Hargreaves 2, Luke Pougnault 2, Caleb Hiller, Mack Hargreaves.

🏆 Grand Final: Saturday 5 September – 4:00pm Vs Grampians.
______________________________
Women Vs Blaze Orange

Our Women’s season came to an end after a hard-fought Semi-Final against Blaze Orange.

Lucas HC started strongly, taking the early momentum and creating some promising attacking play. The complexion of the match changed when a bouncing ball into the circle resulted in the opening Blaze goal, with Lucas HC then forced to spend longer periods defending.

Emily Williams, Annabelle Heal and goalkeeper Seb Pougnault stood up superbly under pressure, allowing Jo Shepherd, Bella Jenkins, Liv Hargreaves and Hazel Penhall opportunities to drive the ball forward.

Lucas HC changed the line-up in the second half in an effort to find a way back into the contest. Zara Staggard competed strongly through the midfield and helped create dangerous opportunities for Belinda Hargreaves and Poppy Staggard in attack.

Blaze Orange ultimately took out a 2-0 victory, bringing the Lucas HC Women’s 2026 campaign to an end.

While there will be disappointment at falling one game short of the Grand Final, the Women can be proud of their season. To finish second on the ladder after the home-and-away season and earn the opportunity to play finals hockey was a fantastic achievement for the group.

Congratulations to everyone involved with our Women’s team throughout the season! 💜
______________________________
Division 1 Men Vs Blaze

Anyone looking for a quiet, low-scoring Semi-Final probably picked the wrong game!

The Division 1 Men’s clash with Blaze turned into an entertaining goal-fest, with both attacking combinations putting enormous pressure on their opposition defence.

Blaze struck first, before Lucas HC responded with two goals to take a slender advantage into the first break. Blaze again levelled the scores during the second quarter, but a Lucas HC penalty corner conversion on the cusp of half-time restored the narrow lead.

From there, Lucas HC took control.

The game opened up considerably in the second half and Lucas HC made the most of it, piling on six goals to run away with an impressive 9-4 victory.

Michael Churcher produced a remarkable performance from defence, whilst also converting four penalty corners. Tom Batchelor was also a constant threat in attack, completing hat-trick of his own.

James Van der Schyff, Nathan Hargreaves and Lachie Hargreaves provided plenty through the midfield. Gabe Pougnault was dangerous in attack, with Ryan Geddes also playing an important defensive role.

A nine-goal Semi-Final victory is a pretty handy way to book a place in the Grand Final!

Goals: Michael Churcher 4, Tom Batchelor 3, Nathan Hargreaves, Lachie Hargreaves.

🏆 Grand Final: Saturday 5 September – 12:30pm Vs EGC.
______________________________
💜🏑 GRAND FINAL DAY – FIVE LUCAS HC TEAMS! 🏑💜

After a fantastic Semi-Final weekend, five Lucas HC teams will play for premierships on Saturday 5 September:

🏆 8:30am – Under 11s Vs Bobcats Maroon
🏆 9:30am – Under 14s Vs Blaze Orange
🏆 10:45am – Under 16s Vs Blaze
🏆 12:30pm – Division 1 Men Vs EGC
🏆 4:00pm – Division 2 Men Vs Grampians

Five Grand Finals in one day is a fantastic achievement for Lucas HC and a credit to the players, coaches, families, volunteers and supporters who contribute so much throughout the season.

Get along, wear your purple and make plenty of noise as we get behind our Lucas HC Grand Finalists! 💜🏑🏆

Grand Final Dinner

The Grand final dinner will be held at the newly renovated 13th View at Midlands Golf Club.

It will be after the finals on Saturday 5th September at 7pm.

We hope to see you there and if you are going, please reply here by Tuesday 1st September.

🏑 LUCAS HC – ROUND 15 MATCH REPORTS 🏑

The home-and-away season is officially done and dusted! Round 15 brought another strong weekend for Lucas HC, and attention now turns to finals hockey.

It has been a terrific season across the Club, with all six Lucas HC teams qualifying for finals – including our Division 2 Men finishing on top of the ladder. Congratulations to all of our players, coaches and supporters on a fantastic home-and-away season!
_________________________________

Under 11s Vs Bobcats White

Our youngest Lucas HC team finished the home-and-away season in style, recording a 3-1 win over Bobcats White.

Lucas HC found themselves behind early after Bobcats scored the opening goal, but there was no panic from our Under 11s. Instead, they remained composed and trusted the passing game that has become such a feature of their hockey this season.

Ruby Hargreaves and Kushil Niwas provided plenty of energy through the midfield, while Heidi Shepherd, Jonny Hargreaves and Noah Gambino continually helped move the ball into dangerous areas. Annabelle Rowland was solid in defence, with Jonte Pougnault again showing his versatility across defence and midfield.

Once Lucas HC found the net, the confidence flowed, with three goals providing the reward for an excellent team performance. Evora Davis rounded out a strong defensive effort in goals as Lucas HC completed the regular season with another impressive win.

Goals: Heidi Shepherd, Noah Gambino, Jonte Pougnault.

Final ladder position: 2nd.
Semi-final: Saturday 29 August – 8:30am Vs Bobcats White.

And yes, after playing Bobcats this weekend, we get to do it all again in the Semi-final!
_________________________________

Under 14s Vs Blaze Orange

Our Under 14s received an excellent finals tune-up in Round 15, taking on Blaze Orange in a much closer contest than the 2-0 scoreline suggests.

Lucas HC generated a number of good scoring opportunities throughout the match but couldn't quite find the finishing touch. Caleb Hiller provided plenty of drive through the midfield, while Jordan Shepherd and Heidi Shepherd worked hard to create opportunities in attack.

At the other end, Morgan Edgar and Oakley Oxlade continued their strong defensive form, while Seb Pougnault provided a reliable presence in goals.

While Blaze Orange ultimately took out a 2-0 victory, there was plenty for Lucas HC to take from the performance. A competitive, tightly fought game is exactly the sort of preparation our Under 14s needed before heading into finals hockey.

Final ladder position: 2nd.
Semi-final: Saturday 29 August – 10:45am Vs EGC.
_________________________________

Under 16s – Bye

Our Under 16s had the Round 15 bye, giving the team an opportunity to freshen up before their finals campaign begins.

Following another strong home-and-away season, the Under 16s have secured second position on the ladder and will now prepare for a Semi-final showdown against EGC.

Final ladder position: 2nd.
Semi-final: Saturday 29 August – 12:00pm Vs EGC.

Good luck to our Under 16s as they head into the business end of the season!
_________________________________

Division 2 Men Vs EGC Blue

Our Division 2 Men put the finishing touches on an outstanding home-and-away season with a 7-1 win over EGC Blue.

Lucas HC controlled the game for sustained periods, holding possession in their attacking half and continually applying pressure to the EGC defence.

The midfield set-up was particularly impressive, with Harley Shepherd, Caleb Hiller, Henry Beechey and Jordan Shepherd combining well. Their defensive running made it extremely difficult for EGC to transition into attack, while also providing Lucas HC with plenty of opportunities going the other way.

Chris Beechey and Mack Hargreaves provided dangerous options in attack, with Lucas HC's disciplined structure and willingness to work for each other proving decisive.

Seven goals provided a fitting finish to the regular season for a team that has earned the title of Minor Premiers!

Goals: Jason Hargreaves 2, Harley Shepherd 2, Damon Shepherd, Henry Beechey, Chris Beechey.

Final ladder position: 🥇 1st – Minor Premiers.
Semi-final: Sunday 30 August – 8:50am Vs EGC Gold.

A fantastic achievement from our newest senior team – now for finals!
_________________________________

Division 1 Men – Bye

Our Division 1 Men had the bye in the final round of the home-and-away season, with their attention already turning towards finals.

Lucas HC finished the regular season in third position and will face Blaze in what promises to be a cracking Semi-final encounter.

Final ladder position: 3rd.
Semi-final: Sunday 30 August – 5:10pm Vs Blaze.

Plenty to look forward to as our Div 1 Men prepare for finals hockey!
_________________________________

Women Vs EGC Gold

The equation was pretty simple for our Women heading into Round 15 – a draw would secure a finals berth, while a win by four goals or more would propel Lucas HC into second position.

Apparently, the Lucas HC Women decided there was no point leaving anything to chance!

Zoe Klopak set the tone with a powerful penalty corner strike to open the scoring. The second quarter then belonged to Lucas HC, with Liv Hargreaves finding the net twice and Klopak adding her second to give Lucas HC a commanding advantage at half-time.

There was no easing off after the break. Lucas HC continued to control the match, with Hargreaves completing her first senior hat-trick, while Jo Shepherd and Nicole Sims also joined the goalscorers in a superb 7-0 victory.

Emily Williams and Annabelle Heal were excellent defensively, regularly shutting down EGC attacking moves. Issy Hiller was influential in attack, while Kerryn Parkinson's composure and ball control through the midfield helped Lucas HC maintain the pressure.

A seven-goal win, a clean sheet and a jump into second spot on the ladder – that's one way to book your place in the finals!

Goals: Liv Hargreaves 3, Zoe Klopak 2, Jo Shepherd, Nicole Sims.

Final ladder position: 2nd.
Semi-final: Sunday 30 August – 1:50pm Vs Blaze Orange.
_________________________________

💜 FINALS BOUND! 💜

With the home-and-away season complete, Lucas HC will have teams competing right across Semi-final weekend:

🏑 Saturday 29 August
8:30am – Under 11s Vs Bobcats White
10:45am – Under 14s Vs EGC
12:00pm – Under 16s Vs EGC

🏑 Sunday 30 August
8:50am – Div 2 Men Vs EGC Gold
1:50pm – Women Vs Blaze Orange
5:10pm – Div 1 Men Vs Blaze

Congratulations to everyone across Lucas HC on a fantastic home-and-away season. Now it's time for finals hockey!

Get along, wear your purple and get behind Lucas HC! 💜🏑

Send a message to learn more

🏑 LUCAS HC – ROUND 14 MATCH REPORTS 🏑

Round 14 was a fantastic weekend for Lucas HC, with our teams producing some impressive hockey as we head towards the business end of the season. Five wins from six matches, plenty of goals, some great individual performances and, most importantly, some excellent team hockey!

____________________________________________________________________

Under 11s Vs Blaze Orange

Our Under 11s put together one of their most complete performances of the season.

The Lucas HC youngsters showcased just how far they have come this season, with their tackling, stick skills and passing all on display. Annabelle Rowland was excellent across defence and midfield, while Ruby Hargreaves, Heidi Shepherd and Kushil Niwas provided plenty of energy through the middle of the pitch.

The willingness to share the ball was a real highlight, with Jonny Hargreaves, Jonte Pougnault and Noah Gambino all getting involved as Lucas HC continually moved into attack. At the other end, Evora Davis did a great job in goals as the Lucas HC defensive running helped keep Blaze scoreless.

Lucas HC taking out a 7-0 win.

Goals: Heidi Shepherd 3, Noah Gambino 2, Jonte Pougnault 2.
____________________________________________________________________

Under 14s Vs Blaze Black

Lucas HC welcomed Caleb Hiller into the Under 14 side for his first game at this level for the season, and his experience through the midfield provided plenty of direction and leadership. This allowed Jordan Shepherd and Mack Hargreaves to spend more time in attacking roles – an opportunity both players relished.

Oakley Oxlade and Morgan Edgar continued their excellent form in defence, with both pushing higher up the pitch as the game progressed. Oxlade was particularly unlucky not to find the back of the net on a couple of occasions!

Toby Dean and Mietta Gambino again demonstrated the continued improvement in their games with important contributions through the midfield. It was also great to see the growing confidence of our younger players, with Heidi Shepherd, Jonte Pougnault, Noah Gambino and Annabelle Rowland continuing to look more comfortable each time they step up into Under 14 hockey.

The final score in this match was a 5-2 win to Lucas HC.

Goals: Xavier Parkinson 2, Caleb Hiller, Jordan Shepherd, Mack Hargreaves.
____________________________________________________________________

Under 16s Vs EGC

The final score might suggest otherwise, but our Under 16 clash with EGC was a very even contest throughout the opening half.

Both teams generated multiple scoring opportunities, with Lucas HC goalkeeper Seb Pougnault producing a faultless first half in the net. His efforts helped Lucas HC take a 2-0 advantage into the break despite plenty of pressure from EGC.

Some positional changes at half-time proved decisive, with Lucas HC combining much better and spending considerably more time in their attacking half. Henry Beechey and Caleb Hiller provided plenty of influence through the midfield, while Lucas Jones and Lachie Hargreaves were dangerous in attack. Harley Shepherd also made an impact across both midfield and defence.

Five second-half goals were the reward for the sustained Lucas HC pressure, with the Under 16s eventually running out 7-1 winners.
Our Under 16s now have the bye in Round 15, with their final ladder position to be determined by the result of the EGC and Blaze match.

Goals: Lachie Hargreaves 2, Harley Shepherd 2, Caleb Hiller, Nic Jolly, Xavier Parkinson.
____________________________________________________________________

Div 2 Men Vs Bobcats

Our Division 2 Men produced an excellent team performance against Bobcats, recording a 5-0 victory, further consolidating top spot on the ladder heading into finals!

After an impressive midfield performance in the Under 16s on Saturday, Caleb Hiller stepped straight into the central midfield role for the Div 2 Men and provided great defensive structure and direction going forward.

Michael Van Dord and Lachie Naylor were impressive in defence, while Lucas Jones and Harley Shepherd moved the ball effectively into attack. In the attacking circle, Andy Marshall and Chris Beechey were constant threats to the Bobcats defence.

A highlight came later in the game when Naylor stepped up at a penalty corner and produced a precision hit to score his first goal for Lucas HC – not a bad way to open the account!

The discipline in Lucas HC's team structure and ball movement was the catalyst for an excellent 5-0 result.

With top spot now sewn up, our Div 2 Men head towards finals in terrific shape.

Goals: Caleb Hiller 2, Andy Marshall, Damon Shepherd, Lachie Naylor.
____________________________________________________________________

Div 1 Men Vs EGC

Our Division 1 Men played out another tight encounter with EGC.
This was a very even match throughout, with both teams enjoying periods in the lead. Ryan Geddes was strong in defence, while Nathan Hargreaves, Noah Boyd and Michael Churcher were influential through the midfield.

Lucas HC generated plenty of scoring opportunities and continued to threaten the EGC defence throughout the game. Churcher made the most of his chances, finding the net twice for Lucas HC.

Unfortunately, it was EGC who found the decisive late goal to take out a narrow 3-2 win, but there was plenty to like about the Lucas HC performance heading towards finals.

Our Div 1 Men now sit second on the ladder and have the bye in Round 15.

Goals: Michael Churcher 2.
____________________________________________________________________

Women Vs Ducks

With both teams fighting to keep their finals hopes alive, there was plenty at stake when our Women took on Ducks – and the match certainly delivered!

Lucas HC started strongly and took an early lead through Poppy Staggard, before Ducks responded to level the scores shortly before half-time.

The second half developed into a genuine arm wrestle as both teams worked hard to find the breakthrough. Zoe Klopak, Jo Shepherd, Nicole Sims and Liv Hargreaves provided plenty of drive through the midfield, while Bella Jenkins and Annabelle Heal worked hard defensively.

The decisive moment came in the third quarter when new Australian Country Under 21 representative Zoe Klopak converted a well-taken penalty corner to put Lucas HC back in front.

From there it was all about holding firm. With Seb Pougnault in goals and the Lucas HC defensive unit standing strong, Ducks were unable to find an equaliser.

Lucas HC holding on for a hugely important 2-1 victory!

The win puts Lucas three points clear of Ducks with one round remaining and keeps the finals push very much alive!

Goals: Poppy Staggard, Zoe Klopak.
____________________________________________________________________

💜 A terrific Round 14 across the club. Congratulations to all of our players, coaches, managers and supporters – especially the supporters at our Women’s match at the end of the day,! One round of the home-and-away season to go! 💜