LGSHA 2024: North Albany hand Spencer Park heartache again in women’s A-grade, two fizzers start men’s A-grade

North Albany’s pursuit of a historic five-peat of Lower Great Southern Hockey Association Retravision Women’s A-grade premierships received a boost on Saturday after defeating a determined Spencer Park. The resurgent Redbacks celebrated the gutsy victory over their 2023 grand final bridesmaids, courtesy of a late winner off the stick of Michelle Ericsson in the dying minutes to take a 2-1 win in the season opener at Albany Hockey Stadium. Park hit the lead early in the first half after the returning Ella Sarre converted from a short corner in her first game back at the club before Redbacks’ Sarah Gallimore equalised heading into half-time. In the other women’s A-grade fixture, an inspired Manypeaks side overcame a slow start and powered to a 2-1 win over Mt Barker at Mt Barker Hockey Stadium. Mt Barker took an early lead and were destined to clinch the victory before a late flurry from Peaks secured a stunning comeback win. Zoe Mills equalised during the last before the ever-reliable Kathryn Slattery belted home the winner in the final minutes of the game snatching victory from the clutches of the home side. Retravision Men’s A-grade reigning premiers Spencer Park started their season on a high after defeating North Albany 5-2 at Albany Hockey Stadium on Saturday. James Leiper led the charge for the home side with a brace while Brodie Sarre netted one to the first half before skipper Darren Parkes and young gun Charlie Hudson added a goal each to close out the game. Simon Philpott provided some respite for the visitors with a double but they were ultimately no match for the title holders. A travelling Manypeaks flexed their muscles in the opening match of the season against Mt Barker with an impressive 8-1 victory at Mt Barker Hockey Stadium. Out to avenge last year’s grand final heartache, Peaks cruised to the seven-goal drubbing thanks to a terrific hat-trick from Mitch Bradbury’s stick and braces from Hayden Mills and Campbell Mayne while youngster Oliver Douglas also netted one. Nic Slade netted a consolation goal for the home side marking a rough introduction to A-grade.