LGSHA 2023: Park out to upset Redbacks and deny four-peat of premierships in women’s A-grade grand final

Spencer Park coach Matt Heberle believes consistent pressure across four quarters will go a long way in upsetting reigning premiers North Albany in the Lower Great Southern Hockey Association women’s A-grade grand final on Saturday. Park will have to reverse the result of their semifinal a fortnight ago if they are to deny the Redbacks a historic four-peat of premierships. In a gripping preliminary final Park were narrow winners over LGSHA last Saturday, booking their place in an A-grade decider for the first time since 2018. Heberle said his side was ready for the big challenge that the Redbacks present. “They’re so experienced and have a very settled group that have been there for three to four years,” he said. “It’s a pretty good experience for our girls, we’re going in as the underdogs so it’s just a massive opportunity, that’s the way we’re looking at it. “It’s great to be in the final and to have a chance to have a crack at them.” Park are the last team to win four consecutive premierships in the women’s A-grade competition, taking home titles in 2003-2006. “If we can link up particularly in our centre half and midfield and not get caught sort of crunched wide, that’s what we’re looking for,” Heberle said. “The one thing we focus on which we’ve done in parts but we haven’t put it together for a full game and that is bringing our pressure. “We think we’ve done it in small pieces against them this season, we just haven’t put it together for a whole game, it will be really important for us.” The Redbacks have won 15 games in 2023 with a round seven forfeit loss their only blemish but coach Darren Parkes is wary of facing a dangerous Park side. “It just depends on who turns up on the day, if they all turn up and come out to play they can absolutely smash it,” he said. “I just need all the girls to come out and turn up, the grand final is always a tough game and you have to slog it out. “Plugger (Heberle) is a smart man, we’ll keep in mind what he’s going to change and adapt to what they come out with. “Obviously G (Georgina Lilford) and their quick forward line up front, Annie (Judd) down back and Bonnie (Crook) in the net makes it a tough challenge. “We’re certainly going to have our work cut out for us.” The highly anticipated grand final showdown is set down for 2.30pm on Saturday.