14-Nov-2011
Womens - Week 16
3 Teams Duke it Out
Good numbers for the girls saw 3 teams play each other in a round robin. Green Machine and the Maroon Marauders played out a 0-0 draw in the first game. The Green Machine backed up in game 2 taking out the Silver Stealth by 2-1. In the final game the Maroon Marauders defeated the Stealth 1-0. Which means the Maroon Marauders will take on the Green Machine in the womens final on December 10.

14-Nov-2011
Mens - Week 16
Grizzlies to Face Terminators
In the mens games Grizzlies out ran a depleted Warriors side 2-0. The second game was high scoring with Terminators winning 3-2. This means Grizzlies take on Terminators in the grand final on December 10.

10-Nov-2011
C Division - Week 15
Journeymen Win... But Lose
Emu Plains Wraith vs. Journeymen by No One
-1 Duty point Journeymen. Bad Journeymen !!

Dugongs vs. Rhinos by Jarad Ferrara
A seriously depleted Rhinos took to the ice with a team of four up against the Dugongs. The matchups are typically challenging with these two teams and tonight's game was a test of endurance for the Rhinos as they battled with a strong opening attack from the Dugongs. Early in the first half, Darren from the Journeyman offered to help out and bring the Rhinos up to a respectable five man squad. His assistance proved invaluable as the Rhinos kept the Dugongs at bay. Fired up after their 6-0 win over the Knights, this outfit proved very dangerous with a number of chances falling just short, unable to beat the keeper. The first half remained scoreless as the Rhinos caused problems for the Dugongs on the counterattack. This same flow of gameplay continued into the second half. The only break being a goal by loan-Rhino Darren who edged one past the Dugong's keeper at an impossible angle to score the only goal for the game. The final few minutes were intense, but the tired Rhinos managed to hold on to get the win. Thanks to the Dugongs for their characteristic great attitude and challenging play.

07-Nov-2011
A Division - Week 15
Druids out of the Finals Race
Glenmore Park Druids vs. Werrington County Sonics by Tim Brown
Sonics coming off a two game overtime losing streak up against Druids desperate for a win. Sonics scoring first Tim Brown crossing the ball to Kerry Baxter in front of goal who deflected the ball to Dhyana Scarano to knock out of the air an into the net. The second goal, Andrew Chapman this time, crossing for Kerry Baxter making another good run into the slot and burying a shot into the bottom corner. Then in the second half a third goal this time Andrew Chapman with plenty to do breaking down the left wing and putting a shot into the far top corner leaving the goalie little chance. Druids well beaten 3-0, Peter Yabsley, keeping for Sonics, being particularly stingy by making some excellent saves to keep Druids goalless.

Richmond Ravens vs. Penrith City Rangers by James Kristof
Rangers were coming into the game with an undermanned roster, with Luke Simmonds, Bryan Macklin, Shannon Jorda and Jo Moore all missing, and thus were predicting that they would be spending a lot of time in defence against a very potent Ravens attacking lineup. Ravens did not disappoint. From the outset Ravens asserted their dominance, creating onslaught after onslaught on the Rangers defence, that somehow managed to hold tight and keep out the Ravens attack for the entire first half. Rangers sensed that Ravens were becoming frustrated with not being able to break through for a goal, so stepped up their attack early in the second half to try and reverse some of the immense pressure they had been under. However it took a phenomenal individual effort for the Rangers to capitalise on an opportunity, as Marky-Mark Rulewski left his Funky Bunch behind, scrambling through a couple of Ravens defenders before miraculously beating the Ravens keeper to give Rangers a 1-0 advantage. From then on, the Rangers tried desperately to hold out the Ravens attack who stepped up their intensity even further, but with only 3 minutes left to play Pete Yabsley pounced on an opportunity, equalising for the Ravens from the most ridiculously acute of angles to send the match into overtime. Ravens looked to have the match won only a few seconds into overtime as they won the opening faceoff and broke through the Rangers tired defence, only to be denied by the post. This was the closest either team came to scoring in OT, the match ending with two very tired teams drawn at 1 goal apiece.

07-NOV-2011
B Division - Week 15
Druids B over Tigers
Titans vs. Ice Devils by Andrew Causby
First half was very evenly contested. Both teams having opportunities but no one was able to score. Second half, Devils found some form and with a good pass from Lauren, Kieran was able to put the ball in the net. Devils continued to press and after a scramble in front of goals and a ball coming off the inside of the post, Devils put away there second goal for the night. A great effort from Titans and another win for Ice Devils.

DruidsB vs. Tigers by Matt Hellyer
Tigers and DruidsB faced off in the final game of the night and what a clash it was! Within the first two minutes a brilliant set up gave an energised Matt Hellyer a solo run at goals which he used to belt the ball at Tigers keeper Kevin Chen whose deflection was not enough to divert the ball from the back of the net. Seven and a half minutes later it was Matt Hellyer again who was on the attack with his shot resulting in a scramble at the nets that unfortunately for Tigers slipped from the keeper�s grasp and was nudged over the goal line. In the final minutes of the first half Zac Law from Tigers was able to drive one home putting the score at 2-1 going into the break. In the second half DruidsB again found themselves deep in Tigers� territory and mounted a number of assaults on the goals that were deflected back out into play. On one such occasion the ball trickled out straight in front and Matt Hellyer was able to collect it and send it through a host of defenders� limbs, including the keeper�s, to make a hat trick (later called a Matty Hatty and a Hellyer Hat-trick). The celebration was short lived however when a Ryan and Linda combo made it a one goal game. With the stakes raised thus, it was Jake Robson who took up the challenge and scored in the top corner of the goal with a slicing shot from the side after a pass from Dom Colyer. The only send off of the night came when Damo was taken off for two in a controversial infraction officially listed as �peer pressure� in the last minute of the game. Final score 4-2 to DruidsB. Thanks to Tigers for an epic showdown in spite of subbing shortages.

03-NOV-2011
C Division - Week 14
KnightWSB Spanked !!
Dugongs vs. Knights Who Say Broomball by Scott Powell
First match of the evening saw a depleted Knights squad face off against a Dugong side that was buoyed by their flame haired goodluck charm returning from the Alice to watch from the sidelines. With recent results between the two close, having a strong start was going to be vital. The Dugongs taking advantage of Bec being a slowpoke getting on the ice when Joel made the first of his many breaks, feeding the ball to Nathan who fed it straight back for the opening goal in the opening 2 minutes. Joel returned the assistance favour minutes later setting up Nathans first for the night. With his wife missing watching the game, Pete scored his obligatory goal, smashing one past the keeper near the 10 minute mark, the Dugongs up 3-0. Nathan had his second shortly after when Aaron drew some defenders wide before crossing the ball in, and had his hat trick after stealing a touch from a long range bomb from Scott, continuing his tradition of being a goal thief. The Dugongs taking a 5 goal lead at the half. Knights tightened up their defence in the second half, and had their fair share of attacking plays, but with Keeper Ron using his head and the Dugong defence slowing down their breaks, they were unable to get the ball to hit the back of the net. Some late pressure from Mik and Sarah on tired Knights legs almost set up goals for Mark and Joel, before Aaron created some space and backed himself for a final goal. Dugongs finished 6-0 winners. Thanks to the Knights for the match, I�m sure they�ll be champing at the bit for revenge next time we meet. We now expect our former keeper to attend every match and provide her good-luck!

Iceatopes vs. Rhinos by Bec Belcastro
The goal scoring started off early in the Rhinos vs Iceatopes match, with Jarad scoring a goal for the Rhinos in the first few minutes. This goal however, was quickly equalized by the iceatopes. Such a goal scoring fashion was carried out throughout the game, with the iceatopes constantly matching the Rhinos goals shortly after they were scored. Rhinos player Ryan scored an excellent goal towards the end of the first half. This goal was again equalized by the Iceatopes. As the score was now 2-2, the Rhinos were extremely keen to get ahead before half time and this was achieved by Matt, scoring in the last few minutes of the first half. The second half saw the iceatopes dominate in attack, but with a lucky break away through Jarad and Bec, the Rhinos were able to again score, now bringing the score to 4-2. This was immediately responded too through Josh, who took on Jeff who was the keeper at the time, and was able to put one away. Rhinos were lucky enough to hang on for the final few minutes in a very close and well played game, with the final score being 4-3.

31-OCT-2011
A Division - Week 14
Ravens Take Down Sonics (New Jersey Win Streak Continues)
Glenmore Park Druids vs. Parramatta Raptors by Louis Sultana
Glenmore Park Druids v Parramatta Raptors in A-Grade Action this week. Both teams coming off two consecutive losses and needed to win to stay in touch with the leaders. Druids opened the scoring with Dominic Colyer with a nice backhand flick into the net. 1-0 HT. Raptors scored just after the break through Reece Shepherd after Daniel Wong fturned the ball over with some excellent forechecking. 1-1 FT and this game was going to overtime. Druids had the Powerplay after the Raptors earnt themselves a penalty right on fulltime. Raptors doing well with a 4 on 3 disadvantage, stopping all Druids' shots. This game would end as a draw. 1-1 OT.

Richmond Ravens vs. Werrington County Sonics by Dane Hansen
The Ravens continue the the new jersey streak, just. Sonics started the game a player short and Ravens took control of the game. Aaron stepped up to centre combining with Craig for some high pressure forechecking and retaining the looses balls. Some great shots were fired from Steve Dardo and James. With newcomer Bec Evans on the post for the deflections, but all were saved by Damo's flexible back leg. Sonics may have been on the back foot but their defence combined with Damos good keeping kept the score to 0-0 at half time. Sonics recovered in the second half Ravens could not attack as freely. Sonics we creating opportunities, probing the Raven defence and pressuring the breakout. 0-0 full time. Ravens controlled the ball with a textbook procession. The ball moved round the perimeter until a shooting lane opened. Dane fired the ball into Jo cutting to the far post but the pass was intercepted and Chapo was off on a counter attack. Chapo fired off a shot under pressure which was saved millimetres from the goal mouth by Alana. Ravens regained possession and composure passing the perimeter and cutting to draw the defence (Tim Brown, that guy is every where) away from the shooter. Eventualy Tim followed Dane to the left half boards and Chapo slid over looking to intercept the pass from Dane to Alana. This opened up Peter for the shot on the far side. Chapo decided not to intercept the pass to Alana, Alana passed to Peter, Peter fired, the Sonics defence got a stick to the shot but could not prevent the goal. Ravens 1-0

31-OCT-2011
B Division - Week 14
Tigers Upset Devils
DruidsB vs. The Penguins by James Kristof
Penguins started a little shakily against Druids, who piled on early pressure, eventually scoring when Dom Colyer sliced through the middle of Penguins defence and flicked the ball past the Penguins keeper. Penguins soon rallied to get an equaliser when Daniel Wong assisted Scott Powell who slotted the ball into the bottom corner. Only a couple of minutes later Penguins took the lead for the first time in the game when Ash Welsh scored from a tight angle after stepping through a couple of Druids defenders behind the goal to make it 2-1 to Penguins at halftime. Druids equalised midway through the second half when Matt Helyer finished off a fast break set up by Dom Colyer. The game looked destined for overtime until with only a few minutes left to play, Lisa Price scored the winning goal for Penguins, scrambling home a goal after Druids deflected a couple of Penguins shots. 3-2 to Penguins at full time.

Ice Devils vs. Tigers by Ryan Findlayson
Tigers struggling again this season, inconsistent line-ups making it hard to play consistent tactics week to week. However, there was a feeling of pride and passion in the pre-game talk which showed up during the game as well. Tigers playing a very disciplined defensive game, which restricted Ice Devils from getting a clear shot away. Tigers creating a few opportunities, but unable to convert. The stalemate continued into the second half. It looked like the Ice Devils were going to break the dead lock, when the Tigers keeper was penalised for holding the ball out of the crease. But a great penalty kill by the Tigers again left the Tigers goal less. So the game proceeded to overtime. Tigers holding possession early and were able to draw a penalty. With the player advantage, Tigers took control, and it was Sally Ormiston free on the post who was able to put away the winner. So 1-0 in OT to Tigers, and it was great to have the Tigers back in the winners circle.

27-OCT-2011
C Division - Week 13
First Week Back !!
Dugongs vs. Iceatopes by Mitchell Burrett
Topes shut out the gongs. So after a highly extended absence ~silent grumbling~ c grade resumed with the iceatopes taking on the dugongs. With both teams sporting several subs, the match was set for an epic clash. The opening minutes showed that the hype was well deserved, with both teams showing strong offense and defense. First points went to the topes when Josh took advantage of a numbers game, taking the score to 1-0 going into the break. The second half brought more of the same, with players and keepers working overtime, for an unsatisfying payoff that was an unchanging scoreboard. As hope faded and desperation began setting in (I'm looking at you Steph) josh broke through to take the score to 2-0 with two minutes left on the clock. Despite the best and repeated efforts of the dugongs, thats where it stayed. Topes take the win against an extremely talented team. Thanks to the dugongs and we await the rematch.

Knights Who Say Broomball vs. Journeymen by Josh Burton
C Grade makes its triumphant return to Thursday nights with tonight�s match was a top 4 encounter between the Knights and the Journeymen. The action started quick with attacking possessions that were dangerous by both sides. Journeymen were first to open the scoring, but not to outdone, Knights hit back quick. Action eased with defence becoming a factor, leading into half time. The Knights attacked early with a goal to take the lead, but Journeymen hit back with a good rebound reaction to lock the scores at 2-2. The last 10 minutes fuelled with frustrated adrenaline, as both teams get a little agitated playing each other. 2 goals late by Josh, with assists from Brett and Bec, put the game to bed with the final score 4-2.

Wraith vs. Rhinos by Ben Hellyer
Tonight�s match saw the Wraith Army take on a much depleted Rhinos. Wraith fielded ten players whilst Rhinos only managed five. The game began relatively quickly, possession changing constantly between both teams, with neither being able to hold onto the ball for long. Soon Wraith�s player advantage helped them maintain good possession in Rhinos� half, despite some disorganisation. However, the Rhinos� goalie proved a good defender, reflecting countless hack shots taken by Wraith players. Jeff from Rhinos� made some good breaks, taking advantage of Wraith�s slow defence. At one point his only opponent was Matthew, as the goalie for Wraith. Matt was just able to deflect the shot, the ball bouncing against the post and even rebounding against Wraith player Ben, coming close to a home goal. There was a continuous struggle, the Rhinos managing to hold up against the attack of the Wraith. Eric of the Wraith team was penalised for a high stick, threatening the Wraith�s defence in losing a player. Only one goal was scored, when Matt of the Wraith team made a break with Jeff hot on his heels, and was able to pass to teammate Ben who took his time lining up his shot at goal. Eventually he made the shot, just slipping it into the goals, with a little assistance from the scrambling Rhinos defenders. Though Wraith were stronger in attack, Rhinos� defence proved hard to break through leaving Wraith to come out on top only 1-0. A well played game by both teams, especially given Rhinos disadvantages, and one that could have gone either way.

24-OCT-2011
A Division - Week 13
Ravens Double Up Against Druids
Penrith City Rangers vs. Parramatta Raptors by James Kristof
Rangers faced off against Raptors for the second week in a row, and were looking to repeat the good form they showed the previous week after scoring a 3-0 win. However, Raptors were determined to exact revenge against the Rangers, and it showed early on as they started the better of the two teams. Rangers slowly worked their way into the first half, and eventually broke the deadlock when Mark Rulewski pounced on an opportunity after some well worked play from Rangers, chipping the ball over the diving keeper to give Rangers a 1-0 lead. Rangers dominated the bulk of the second half, but were unable to capitalise on any of their opportunities, and as the match wound down closer to fulltime, Raptors stepped up a couple of gears and were unlucky not to equalise when an off-balance Daniel Wong missed an open goal shot. Rangers earning a hard-fought 1-0 win.

Richmond Ravens vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Jo Mitchell
Druids played Ravens for the 2nd consecutive week. Ravens started strong, confident after their one - nil win last week. Druids applied solid zone defence strategy but Ravens worked hard to create opportunities. James Dymond, Pete Yabsley, and Jo Mitchell combined to slot a ball neatly over the keepers shoulder to put Ravens in the lead by one goal at half time. 2nd half saw both teams creating chances in attack, with Jo Mitchell cleaning up a loose ball to score the 2nd goal for Ravens. Linda Findlayson put her head on the line when stopping a hard shot from Dane Hansen, great work Linda! End score 2-nil Ravens. Well played both teams.

24-OCT-2011
B Division - Week 13
Penguins over Devils
Ice Devils vs. The Penguins by James Kristof
Ice Devils came into this games against Penguins undefeated for the season, and with a massive bench and a wealth of experience, contrasting Penguins one man bench and seeing 3 players returning after extended breaks with injury, Ice Devils looked as though they would cruise through this match early on. However, Penguins set up a tight defensive zone and managed to keep the Ice Devils out. It looked as though Penguins would take the lead just before halftime when Bryan Macklin was awarded a penalty shot, but was unable to capitalise on the opportunity, sending the ball high and wide of the goal. The second half saw a more even spread of possession as it was the Ice Devils that seemed to tire first. James Kristof eventually gave Penguins the lead after running the ball through the tiring Ice Devils defence, and scrambled the ball into the back of the net after Ice Devils keeper Ben Irmisch managed to keep the first two shots out, but was left stranded on the third. Despite Ice Devils pressing hard for an equaliser, Penguins held on for the win.

Titans vs. Tigers by Kathy Gregory (formerly Andrew)
The game started with the Titans having no subs, but 5 mins in, backup had arrived! One of these backups being Skye DeGruyter who scored midway through the first with a cross from Chris Dezman. The Game continued with the Titans controlling the play, and we camped in the Tigers Half. Another goal was scored by the Titans, through a great cross from Skye DeGuyter to newly re-instated captain Russell Gregory (really a carbon copy of the first goal). The Tigers hit back with a short range bullet on Goalie Ninja Greg Dezman, in his final game of the season for the Titans. Good defence for both teams saw the final result remain the same 2-1 for the Titans.

17-OCT-2011
A Division - Week 12
Ravens Win in New Sexy Jerseys !!
Penrith City Rangers vs. Parramatta Raptors by James Kristof
Rangers started strongly against Raptors, dominating the bulk of possession and territory for most of the first half. However, Raptors defence held tight and denied Rangers from taking the lead, and only just missed out on taking the lead themselves on a couple of fast break opportunities late in the half. The second half saw a more even share of possession, but it was the Rangers that eventually broke the deadlock as Luke Simmonds beat the Raptors keeper and put the ball into the back of the net. The Rangers second came only a couple of minutes later, as Liam Golding hammered a shot towards Jo Moore on the near post, who deflected the ball away from a diving keeper. With only a couple of minutes left to play Rangers got their third goal after Mark Rulewski pulled off a reverse-backside-unsighted-tap on the far post from a Liam Golding pass to seal the game for Rangers.

Richmond Ravens vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Dane Hansen
Ravens, with sexy new jerseys, played a patient dominating game. Controlling the possession and winning the loose balls. However patience and safe passing was not enough to break down Druids defence and beat the keeper. Despite creating many opportunities the only goal was scored by Dane from a mistimed shot deflecting off a defender. Ravens 1-0.

17-OCT-2011
B Division - Week 12
DruidsB Hit Back
DruidsB vs. Tigers by Matt Hellyer
Many of tonight�s players (from both teams) entered the game off the back of an intense A grade game and were still recovering from last Friday night�s gruelling Melbourne Ironman Competition.So energy levels at the faceoff were not as high as might usually be expected. DruidsB had much to play for however, having uncharacteristically gone down 3-0 in the previous two games.The first half saw only the one goal, when Nick scored from a Dom assist, a consequence of fairly even ball possession and goal opportunities.The second half saw a bit more action, with Dom able to place the ball right in front of an open net for a clean shot by Sarah Hellyer to bring the score to 2-0. Tigers did not concede defeat easily however, with Zac Law making the most of a turnover to score with a smooth flick after a solo run from just before half way.A penalty send off against DruidsB towards the end of the match increased the stakes, but a solid diamond defensive formation was enough to prevent any further goals, with DruidsB able to hold on to their one point lead as the siren sounded. Thanks Tigers for a good game.

Ice Devils vs. Titans by Andrew Causby
Undefeated Ice Devils were looking for another win but were rocked by the pace of the Titans and never really recovered. Shot after shot by titans meant Devils goalie Ben Irmisch had to step up and step up he did! Bens saves were keeping Devils alive. End of the first half nil all. Second half started much like the first. Titans dominated......Ben saved everything!........ Ref Ryan Findlayson did well to keep the game in line as devils started to get reckless...(Brett!)... and somehow devils kept the game scoreless as we progressed to OT. A few mins into OT Brett Ackling makes an appearance from the penalty box, intercepts at the half way and takes off down the ice... making up for the 3 penalties he had received! Hot pursuit from Causby gave Brett a pass right in front of goals to win the game 1 nil continuing the Devils win streak.

10-OCT-2011
A Division - Week 11
Druids Grab a Win after a 3 week break !!
Werrington County Sonics vs. Parramatta Raptors by Louis Sultana
Raptors v Sonics in A-Grade Broomball. This game was much like previous encounters between the two teams, fast, fast and fast. Raptors scored the only goal in the first half, after Louis Sultana scored from a Daniel Wong pass. 1-0 HT. The second half and the Sonics equalised with 5 minutes remaining. As the Raptors players looked to the referee for a "hidden ball" call, the Sonics slammed the ball in the back of the net. Raptors should definitely play to the whistle. 1-1 and this game was going to overtime. Both teams had their chances but couldn't convert. With 30 seconds remaining, the Raptors found themselves on a powerplay. A quick face off and Reece Shepherd found Louis Sultana open in the centre of the ice. A low shot, a deflection off the defence and the ball went into the back of the net. The keepers doing extremely well to keep the ball out of the net on a number of occasions, the score could have easily been 5 a piece. 2-1 FT Raptors.

Penrith City Rangers vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Saxon Hooper
Ice Dance Championships, Byes and Public Holidays meant Druids hadnt been on the ice for an eternity (well 3 weeks, but it felt like an eternity). After a sluggish start to the season with only 1 win from 4 games Druids needed to shake off the ring rust quickly against a Rangers team who have started stongly handing Sonics their only defeat this season. Got to say this was a typpical Druids vs Rangers game. Druids spending a lot of time in attack, with Rangers always looking to explode from the back with their impressive speed across the board. Typical game play but not so typical goals. First and only goal of the first half going to Druids after Saxon Hooper running the ball round the back of goals flicked in looking for a forward to tap in. However the ball hit defender Bryan Macklin and deflected in. Rangers hit back in the second half with Luke Simmonds beating the entire Druids team twice on his way to the net where he was finally dispossessed. However as the defender Dom Colyer scrambled the ball he threw it into the goals/ 1-1 with 5 to go. Shortly later Dom Colyer made amends for his own goal beautifully crashing the net to grab a rebound and flick it in to give Druids the much needed win. 2-1 to Druids.

10-OCT-2011
B Division - Week 11
Titans Down DruidsB
Penguins vs. Tigers by James Kristof
Penguins started fast against a Tigers team that they have struggled against in the past. Daniel Wong opened the scoring for Penguins with a backhand flick shot to the bottom corner to give Penguins a 1-0 lead at halftime. Penguins doubled their advantage early in the second half when Natasha Sheaves scored her first broomball goal and celebrated in style as she ran triumphantly with both arms in the air down the ice. Penguins finally felt confident now of getting a victory against their bogey team, but Tigers had other ideas, with Zac Law and Ryan Findlayson both hammering home long range goals in quick succession to tie the game up and swing momentum back in favour of the Tigers. As the clock ran down and the game looked headed for overtime, Mark Simms became the hero of the night as he belted home the winner for Penguins and give them a much needed victory.

DruidsB vs. Titans by Greg Dezman
Although the faces were different, Titans once again took to the ice without any subs. But despite a lack of numbers, there was no holding back, with Titans pushing forward aggressively from the outset. The first half was played almost exclusively at the Druids end, with a flood of scoring opportunities that were unsuccessful through an alternating series of mis-hits and strong desperation defence and goalkeeping from the Druids. But it was one of the few occasions that the ball was at the other end of the ice that delivered the Titans first goal, with a breakaway run from Dave De Gruyter finally putting Titans on the board. Druids pushed forward a little more after the goal, but with a dearth of scoring opportunities were unable to respond before half time. The second half began with play spread more evenly across the ice, but still not troubling the Titans keeper, and it was the Titans through Reece Shepherd who made the first scoring play of the half. At 2-0 down, the tension began to show for the Druids, and when a flying elbow dropped Dave De Gruyter, Titans were on a power play. Despite the extra number the Titans were unable to threaten the Druids goal, and shortly after the teams were back to full strength it was the Druids turn to enjoy a man advantage when Reece�s stick crept up a little. But in game with no subs, the rest seemed to do a world of good for Reece, returning to the ice to put the ball into the goals for the second time, giving the exhausted Titans team a 3-0 lead that they held until the end of the game.

26-SEP-2011
A Division - Week 9
Peter Yabsley & Lauren Goulden Back in the Fold
Werrington County Sonics vs. Penrith City Rangers by Tim Brown
Only Rangers had given Sonics the taste of defeat this season. This was their third match of the season completing the three rounds, with Rangers anyway. The best of three to be decided by this game. The first half was even with neither side making the breakthrough. In the second half, a flip over the redline from Kerry Baxter was picked up by Tim Brown on the boards, an inside pass to Jason Wheeler and the return allowed Brown to evade two defenders and close in on goal. Covering defence from Rangers arriving quickly saw a cross to Jeff Ferrara on the back post deflected away from goal. Unfortunately for Rangers the ball rolled back nicely for Jason Wheeler to smash the first goal. Sonics managed a second goal on a break with Ben Robson providing a through ball which put Tim Brown in the clear. Some desperated defence saw Brown taken down from behind but a swing at the ball was saved by the keeper but the rebound hitting Brown's face cage and rolling into the goal. Two nil the final score, Sonic's fortunate with both their goals.

Parramatta Raptors vs. Richmond ravens by Louis Sultana
A-Grade Broomball this week saw the Permanent return of Lauren Goulden and Peter Yabsley. Peter lending his services to the Richmond Ravens for the remainder of the season whilst Lauren is on loan to the Parramatta Raptors. The game was fairly even with both teams very strong in defence, not allowing many shots on goal. Marc Kuipers opened the scoring for the Raptors after a good forecheck and nice backhand flick to beat the keeper. Ravens equalised just before the break after good forechecking forced the turn over. Alana Bracken one timed the ball after positioning herself well in front of the net. 1-1 HT. The second half saw the game open up but the keepers were doing well keeping the ball out of the net. With less than a minute to go, the Raptors found themselves in a two on one situation. The keeper making the intial stage, but then a scramble in front of the net and Louis Sultana was able to tap the ball in. Raptors 2-1 FT.

26-SEP-2011
B Division - Week 9
Devils Down DruidsB
Ice Devils vs. DruidsB by Brett Ackling
Another Devils V's Druids match that looked to be just as good as the last. The Devils welcomed in their new recruit Lauren. Match started out hard and fast with both teams having opportunites. Some awesome keeping from Ben allowed the Devils to go on attack and a loose ball was soon chipped by Brett over to Buckley who with a diving 1 handed swing slotted the ball past the keeped and into the net. Game went into the half with the Devils up 1-nil. 2nd half was just as fast but Devils soon got a nice break with Keiran providing the past around the last defender for Brett to score. As the ball dropped for the restart it went loose back into the Druids half and with no one bothering to clean up the scraps Brett burst through for his 2nd with Buckley providing some nice decoy running. Pity you don't get an assist for being a decoy. Game ended 3-nil which says nothing for the intensity of the game. Another great gaming keeping by Ben for the Devils kept the Druids scoreless. Cheers to the Devils girls for backing up after A grade and cheers to Lauren for filling our ever void 2nd female position. Thanks to Druids for another great game.

Penguins vs. Titans by Reece Shepherd
The last game of the night saw the Titans up against the Penguins. Titans were lucky enough to have the return of Greg 'the ninja keeper' Dezman back from injury so the fellas were getting a little rest here and there for once. The girls still struggling though, playing a full game with Kathy and Russ still off on their honeymoon and Penguins were without the influential James Kristof. The Titans came out in dominating force with solid pressure for the first 5 minutes. Dave and Bryn were extremely unlucky not to score a goal each with many shots on goal and a couple of post deflections. It wasn't until Reece scored a lucky intercept from a poor pass and with only the keeper to beat slotted the ball into the bottom corner for the Titans first goal. Penguins came on strong after this, putting full pressure on the Titans and had them on the back foot for the rest of the half. Penguins were unlucky not to score on a few occasions especially with the soft defence from Dave. After taking a shot of Bryan's in the stomach the ball managed to work its way back around to Bryan to set up for a second shot at the goals (or Dave but we can't be sure) but Dave decided the first one hurt enough and dived like a pansy to get out of the way. The second half saw another solid fighting effort from the Penguins but the Titans were trying hard to extend their lead. The half was evenly fought but Titans were the luckier of the two with an attack involving too many players to mention for the set up of another Reece Shepherd goal who was lucky enough to score with a back handed scramble shot that sunk deep into the back of the net. The pressure continued from Penguins but the score seemed to be locked in and stayed at 2-0 Titans for a good win against a solid Penguins team. Commendation must be made for James Kristof's great heckling throughout the match.

22-SEP-2011
C Division - Week 8
Last Week Before an Extended Break :(
Knights Who Say Broomball vs. Iceatopes by Josh Burton
Iceatopes playing the Knights. Play started even as each team had slim chances early to open the scoring but to no avail. The Knights were first to put a goal through by Josh for a 1-0 lead. Some good defence keep the Iceatopes at bay, especially from Kiera and Nathan. Brett scored the second goal, looking for a pass, but conveniently made its way to the back of the net. Tensions got a bit high as both teams were aggressively looking for the advantage. Iceatopes hit back on a counter by way of Josh Newell. Knights put in a 3rd goal off a counter attack to put the scoreline away. Some lucky, but good defence lead to the Knights securing a 3-1 win over the Iceatopes.

Wraith vs. Dugongs by Scott Powell
The second battle of the sky blue jerseys for the season could have started with disaster after both sides forgot to fill out their team sheets, however the sheets were both full when the Dugongs scored their first goal from a Nathan break down the middle of the ice early in the piece. This was followed shortly after by Joel zigging and zagging to goals from a Nathan pass to give the Dugongs a 2-0 lead late in the half. Not to be outdone, the Wraith hit back with one of their own, Matt scoring to make the game 2-1 at halftime. An early second half goal to Nathan from a well timed Joel pass saw the Dugongs lead 3-1, before the match settled down with teams battling in the middle third of the ice for position. Bored from the grind, Aaron decided to camp in a corner, giving the Dugongs a great forward platform from which to strike, before Nathan returned the favour to Joel, setting him up with a nice pass to which Joel hammered into goals. The match ended with no surprise, a recurrence of the Joel and Nathan show, this time Joel giving an inch perfect cross to an open Nathan, who slotted in for his first hat trick this season. Game ended with the Wraith throwing everything bar the kitchen sink at the Dugongs, but the score remained 5-1 at the close. Well done to the Wraith for another great match, looking forward to the competition recommencing in a months time.

Journeymen vs. Rhinos by Tim Boyce
The last game before the mid season break saw the Journeymen up against the Rhinos. In what will end up being a very short season, every game is likely to have a great impact on the makeup of the finals, so both teams were keen to knotch up a win going into the mid season break. The first half was a major arm-wrestle, with both teams looking very evenly matched. So good passing from Journeymen was matched by some impressive fast breaks from the Rhinos, and while both teams had multiple chances to score, neither was able to finish off. The second half started well for Journeymen, with James Karamanos keeping possesion and beating several challenges for the ball before centering to an open Timothy Boyce who managed to beat the keeper for the first goal of the night. Rhinos responded midway thorugh the second half with a breakaway effort again, and a nice finish to tie up proceedings. Despite numerous opportunities for both teams, the score remained 1-1 at full time, sending the game into overtime. As is often the way in overtime, it was a scrappy, desperate affair, with both teams missing prime opportunities to take out the game with shots going just wide. With only seconds on the clock, it looked as if this game would end up a draw, but some great pressure from Anke Vermeulen forced a late turnover deep in Rhinos defense, followed up by some great scrambling work by Darren Pearce to get a pass to the advantage of Timothy Boyce, who put a desperate diving reverse stick shot in the corner to steal the win with only 10 seconds remaining. A great closely fought game by both teams, with Rhinos unlucky not to salvage a draw.

15-SEP-2011
C Division - Week 7
Rhinos Upset Iceatopes
Rhinos vs. Iceatopes by Mark Ferrara
The Rhinos and the Iceatopes match began with some quick play between the halves. Decent shots on goal came from both teams in the first half and both teams conceded a penalty in the scuffle. It wasn't too long into the first half before Ryan took a shot at the Iceatopes defence. Fortunately for himself and the Rhinos, the shot hit a defender's hand and deflected into the Iceatopes net. The Rhinos were up 1-0, managing to hold onto till half time. Second half was a lot of the same, both teams getting some good breaks. Ryan got his second of the night shooting into the top of the Iceatopes net. In the end, Rhinos won 2-0, thanks for the great game Iceatopes.

Knights Who Say Broomball vs. Dugongs by Josh Burton
The first match for tonight showed the Dugongs against the Knights. For both teams, the objective was the points, and with the Knights haven�t awoken, the Dugongs put 2 quick past goals past in a matter of 5 minutes to set the game alight. The Knights worked hard to get the advantage back, but proved hard, as the Dugongs were up for this game. Nearing the end of the first half, 2 quick goals from Brett and Josh, in probably a minute, put the Dugongs hard work to rest as half time was 2-2. The Knights gained a goal early, but the Dugongs gained a goal late to force overtime. Both teams worked harder but in the end, Bec puts a goal through, from wide and got a evil defection for a 4-3 win to the Knights.

12-SEP-2011
A Division - Week 7
Rangers Continue Their Solid Start
Werrington County Sonics vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Tim Brown
With 3 minutes left on the clock for the previous game most of Sonics were still clambering from vehicles in the car park. Luckily a forfeit was avoided with some superman style costume changes, swapping the phone booth for a change room or toilet, and taking note that our broomball gear was not worn under our cloths. Druids started better, controlling the game in the opening minutes, as they often do, by pinning Sonics in defense. Sonics did eventually break the shackles putting the ball long and breaking up Druids attack. From a turnover, Tim Brown, passed to Kerry Baxter for a give and go that had Brown on break and Druids defence in recovery mode. Before they could reorganise the shot had been taken and keeper beaten in the bottom left corner. Sonics being 1-0 up the game settled into a more desperate tempo with both teams creating plenty of chances to score. Andrew Causby, in goals for Sonics, deserving special mention for some excellent saves, making a major contribution in what was, in the end, a 1-0 win to Sonics.

Penrith City Rangers vs. Richmond Ravens by James Kristof
Rangers started very strongly in their match against the Ravens, applying plenty of early pressure in both attack and defence, which yielded a very early goal for Liam Golding who slotted in a near-post flick shot to give Rangers a 1-0 lead. Soon after Ravens suffered a devastating blow when star player Andrew Causby copped a stray stick on his big toe which unfortunately left his toe bloodied and almost nailless and saw him out for the rest of the game. Despite this incident Ravens managed to hold fast in defence and keep Rangers out, before turning the screws in attack, only just failing to convert a couple of times, leaving the score at 1-0 at halftime. The Rangers were on top early in the second half but desperate last ditch defence and a couple of posters stopped them from extending their lead. As the match drew closer to its end Ravens stepped up the intensity in attack, forcing Rangers defence to lose its structure, but thanks to some great goalkeeping Rangers managed to hold on to their advantage to take out the win.

12-SEP-2011
B Division - Week 7
Ice Devils and DruidsB with Wins
Ice Devils vs.Tigers by Brett Ackling
Devils started out down a girl as Bec took her sweet time getting ready. Game was fast with both teams having lots of opportunites. First points went to Anke off pass from Buckley. Grats to Anke on her first B grade goal. Expect more in the weeks to come. Devils extended this lead with Brett and Anke combining down the middle with the goal going to Brett off an Anke assist. Game remained at 2-nil for the remainder of the game. Thanks to Tigers for a great game.

Penguins vs. DruidsB by Matt Hellyer
DruidsB faced off against The Penguins tonight in a typically close battle for supremacy. The Penguins opened up the scoring and maintained the upper hand for most of the game. Unwilling to back down, it was Dom who first scored for DruidsB. The Penguins were relentless in their attack and as the game progressed DruidsB suffered for their lack of female subs with an easy second goal being scored against them. Despite the deficit, surrender was not on the cards and it was Jake Robson who evened the score. A close call came when Matt was given a clear break, but a slight fumble was all it took for defenders to catch up and shut down the assault. In the end however it was a goal by Damo that sealed the victory for DruidsB 3-2. Thanks to The Penguins for a close game.

08-SEP-2011
C Division - Week 6
Rhinos Upset Iceatopes
Wraith vs. Rhinos by Mark Ferrara
After being defeated by the Wraith in the last Rhinos vs Wraith match-up, the Rhinos were extremely keen for a win. The game began with fairly even possession, both teams clearly attempting to capitalize whilst in their own half. Fortunately for the Rhinos, Jeff Ferrara was able to put/smash the ball in the back of the net. This goal however, was not earned easily, as the Wraith displayed extremely tight and dedicated defense. Rhinos were again lucky to put another two goals away off the stick of Ryan Priestley. These two goals were not taken lightly by the Wraith, who made many line breaks and came back with attacking force. Rhinos defense was able to maintain these attacks, via many courageous saves by goalie Matt McCabe (Or whoever else filled in at the time). The second half saw Jarad Ferrara put away a brilliant and well earned goal, putting the Rhinos up 4-0. Shortly after this goal, Sara Powderly was able to get behind the net, passing a ball to Bec Belcastro who was positioned in front of the goal, who was then able to pop the ball in behind the goal keeper. This made the final score 5-0 to the Rhinos who, as always, had a fun and fair match against the Wraith. Thanks guys!

Knights Who Say Broomball vs. Journeymen by Josh Burton
Tonight�s match put the Journeymen and the Knights up against each other. Tonight was expected to be a tough game, and it didn�t disappoint with some aggressive, fast-flowing from both teams. Shots were flying everywhere, but none on target. Journeymen went ahead early, but Knight hit back for 1-1 heading into halftime. Josh put a goal in, at the 6 minute mark of the 2nd half, and despite some good attacking plays, both planned and counter attack, Journeymen fell short, with Knight winning 2-1. A Division - Week 6
Rangers Break Sonics Run
Richmond Ravens vs. Parramatta Raptors by Louis Sultana
Raptors v Ravens for the second time this season. Ravens got the better of the Raptors in the first round and the Raptors were looking to square the series. Raptors scored early through Louis Sultana, after some good lead up work from Ghis Calloc'h. Ravens got one back through some scrambling by Steve Dardo. Raptors grabbed the lead just before the break with the Reece Shepherd / Marc Kuipers combination working together again, this time Reece making the final pass to Marc, who finished the ball quite well. 2-1 HT Raptors. The second half saw the Raptors collect two more goals. The first through Dani Mitrevski and the second through Ghis Calloc'h. FT 4-1 Raptors.

Penrith City Rangers vs. Werrington County Sonics by James Kristof
Rangers thought that all their dreams had come true when they received the greatest gift that any team could be given, that being playing a Sonics team who was missing Tim Brown and Kerry Baxter. But if Rangers were expecting an easy game because of Sonics missing players, they were very much mistaken. From the outset Sonics set up a tight defensive zone as Rangers struggled to get any shots on target. Rangers controlled the ball for long periods of time deep in the Sonics half, but as always Sonics posed a breakaway threat with their great speed, and were unlucky not to score on several occasions. As the first half wound down, Rangers eventually broke through the Sonics defence with a cracking shot from Dave Degruyter finding the back of the net and giving Rangers a 1-0 lead. The second half saw a more controlled effort from the Rangers, setting up a more effective structure in attack, limiting Sonics breakaway capability, however Sonics remained staunch in their defence and managed to hold Rangers to only 1 goal the entire game, despite being undermanned. 1-0 to Rangers the fulltime score.

05-SEP-2011
B Division - Week 6
Ice Devils Down DruidsB
DruidsB vs. Ice Devils by Brett Ackling
First B Grade game of the night. Was going to be very fast paced with both teams having a quick side. First goal went to Brett Ackling off a Causby flick over the top. Devils defending hard for the rest of the half with 2 soft penalites giving both teams good opportunites. Score remained the same going into the 2nd half with both teams having some close chances. Some scrambling Devils defense saved some almost certain goals. Score remained 1-nil at the finish. Thanks to Druids for a good fast game.

Penguins vs. Titans by James Kristof
Neither team was at full strength as Penguins came up against Titans, but this didn't effect the speed of the game as the match flowed from end to end as both teams sought to establish an early lead. Titans broke through first after Bryn Shepherd had a shot blocked after Penguins' James Kristof and Peter Cook collided together in front of goalkeeper Scott Powell, however the ball rebounded to an open Chris Dezman, who with the three Penguins players sprawled out across the ice, pounced on the opportunity to slot home the opening goal of the match. Titans held on to their lead for almost the entire rest of the match, until with only a few minutes left on the clock Daniel Wong sent a low shot through a scramble of players, the ball sliding past an unsighted goalkeeper to equalise and send the game into overtime. Both teams squandered opportunities to claim the win in overtime, the match ending in a 1-1 draw.

01-SEP-2011
C Division - Week 5
Round 3
Rhinos vs. Dugongs by Mark Ferrera
The Rhinos were happy to gain another player (and sub!) as they were joined by newcomer Matt Dyson, however their game began horrendously. The Dugongs made a break down the middle of the ice off the first drop and Jeff was left sprinting back to defend. Unfortunately, the shot travelled unexpectedly wide and scored a miracle deflection off Jeff's knee, flying past Mark in goals. Both Rhinos were dumbfounded as to what had just happened and the Dugongs were up 1-0 very early in the match. Keen to even up the game, the Rhinos pressured the Dugong defence throughout the first half. Combined efforts from Ryan and Jeff in the middle and Bec and Sara up front resulted in some great opportunities, each denied by the Dugongs defence. Eventually though, Jarad managed to beat the keeper in the later stages of the half, striking the ball from just inside the Dugongs defensive third. This levelled up the scores which remained unchanged at half-time; 1-1. The game was very open at the beginning of the second half but an offside by the Dugongs meant a drop was called inside their half. After Jarad won the ball, he flicked it back to Jeff who smashed it past the bewildered Dugongs team from halfway, beating the keeper. Rhinos were up 2-1, though the Dugongs weren't giving up and some very tense moments followed for the Rhinos, especially after a Dugongs forward got a hand to a flick pass made by Jeff deep in Rhinos territory. However the last goal of the match came when Mark passed the ball from behind the goals to Ryan who was waiting in the centre to push it pass the keeper. Final score was 3-1. Thanks to the Dugongs for a great contest.

Knights Who Say Broomabll vs. Emu Plains Wraith by Josh Burton
Tonight�s match up put the Knights and Wraith against each other for the first team this season. The Wraith were on the ropes early, with the Knights showing good relentless attack from the get go, which produced a goal to Brett, and a 50-50 (half Josh shot, half own goal) to get the scoring started. When all thoughts went to �easy night�, Matt Hellyer appears on the ice to �ruin the day�. The match was now a struggle, with the Wraith getting the 50-50 possessions, with lack of emphasis put by the Knights. Half Time, 2-0. After Half Time, the Knights looked to put the nails into the coffin, so to speak but to no avail. The Wraith, to their mental strength, clawed the deficit back to 2-2 with some good attack. With 8 minutes to go, The Knights kicked a gear up, with a goal to Nathan with some possession, and then out of nowhere, meaning no disrespect, Nathan ran wild on the Wraith, and I mean WILD!! Counter breakaway after breakaway resulted in a 5-2 win to the Knights and the first hat-trick for Mr. Nathan Ackling. A good win in the end for the Knights, with the result no showing the struggle of the contest.

Iceatopes vs. Journeymen by Mitchell Burrett
And here we go. After sitting around all evening...err 'coordinating'...[Editor Note: Coordinating is all at the start and finish !!] The Iceatopes finally got their chance on the ice, taking on the always dangerous Journeymen. Kudos to Matt of Wraith for being the sole officiator for the contest, great work mate. With the ice fairly dry from the earlier games, both teams were able to make consistent breakaways, ensuring that the offensive and defensive players got their share of play, and even the keeper had to make a few runs! First half ended with with a nil-all scoreboard, and the second-half began with the same fast paced plays from both teams. First points went to the Topes, with Josh breaking the 0-0 deadlock. Steph followed shortly after, taking the lead to 2-0. As the half wore on, frustration became more evident from the Journeymen, who continually broke the Topes defence, with a quartet repeatedly bearing down on the goals. Unable to convert that momentum into points, the Journeymen felt the brunt of Tope offence, with Josh, Justin and Grant all putting shots past the net. Final score 5-0 to the Topes. Thanks to the J'men for a great game, both teams look to the next week.

29-AUG-2011
A Division - Week 5
Round 1 Complete
Penrith City Rangers vs. Glenmore Park Druids by James Kristof
After an improved showing last week against Raptors that yielded no rewards, Rangers were keen to keep building on their performances, and it showed early against an always strong Druids side. Neither team really dominated the match, but the quality of broomball was high as both teams forged relatively mistake free performances. As always, Druids posed a strong threat from up top with powerful shooting, whilst Rangers played a patient game in attack rather than relying on fast breaks for goalscoring opportunities. Ironically, after establishing an effective patient attack, the only goal of the game came to Rangers off of a fast break as Liam Golding sent the keeper the wrong way to calmly place the ball into the back of the net, giving Rangers a hard-fought 1-0 victory.

Werrington County Sonics vs. Parramatta Raptors by Tim Brown
Sonics on a bit of a role with an undefeated start to the season were up against Raptors. Sonics taking the lead in the first half a neat pass on halfway putting tim brown in the clear to score. Sonics increased the lead in the second, this time a long range effort from Brown finding the top corner with the keeper unsighted. Sonics extending their unbeaten run to four.

29-AUG-2011
B Division - Week 5
Titans Grab a Win
Titans vs. Tigers by Bryn Shepherd
The last game of the night saw Titans up against the Tigers. Titans were looking for their first win of the season but things weren't looking good with having only just enough players to field a team due to injuries or people being off on their honeymoon. The game got off to a quick start with both teams making breaks but noone able to capitalise. After 5 minutes Titans took control, slowing the game down to suit their game plan for the evening (taking it easy). Titans were dominating the Tigers putting lots of pressure on their defense with great ball control and solid safe passing while also shutting Tigers out in attack. With about 8 minutes left in the first half Titans struck. Chris Dezman passing a ball to Skye Degruter who was standing directly in front of the goals and able to get a beautiful touch to put the ball the the keepers legs and into the back of the net. 1-0 Titans. The rest of the half saw more of Titans controlling the game but unable to get another goal. Half time 1-0 Titans. The second half started with the Tigers coming out strong trying to get back into the game pressing hard to get over the red line but struggling to keep it their thanks to some great defense from the Titans. Titans slowing the pace of the game every time they got the ball (just so they got a breather) managed to find some rhythm making lots of breaks through the Tigers line but always coming up short. Until David Degruter made a quick break to find himself with just the keeper to beat and slotted one into the back of the net (not wanting to be shown up by his wife). After this Tigers stepped up putting more pressure on the Titans defense but they were always able to close it down before Tigers got to close to the goals. The game then feel into the middle third of the rink and seemed to stay there for the rest of the game, both teams seeming a little tired due to the hour of the night or the lack of subs. Final score 2-0 Titans over Tigers. Thanks to the Tigers for a good tough game.

22-AUG-2011
A Division - Week 4
Druids Just Get Past Ravens
Richmond Ravens vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Saxon Hooper
Druids taking on Ravens for the first time this season. Good start from Druids saw them with the early posession and territory as Ravens sorted themselves out (missing Dymond Brothers). The pressure converted to points where a cut and a shot from yours truly looped into the top corner. 1-0 Druids, taking that to half time. Posession evened up in the second as Ravens tried to peg the goal back. Coming close a few times, Druids scrambly defence held and grabbed Druids the 1-0 win.

Penrith City Rangers vs. Parramatta Raptors by Louis Sultana
Raptors v Rangers in the last game of the Night. Raptors boosted by the addition of Alana Bracken (on loan from the Ravens) and Sarah (Previously Unknown C Grade Player from Wraith). Fairly even first half with both Keepers having to make saves. 0-0 HT. Second Half saw Raptors opened the scoring fairly early with Marc Kuipers combining well with Reece Shepherd, Reece finishing it offf with a one timer. Raptors scored again soon after with Alana Bracken intercepting a Rangers ball and passing straight to Marc Kuipers. Marc deked the Keeper and flicked the ball into the net. Raptors held on for another win. FT 2-0 Raptors.

22-AUG-2011
B Division - Week 4
Wins for Ice Devils and Druids B
Tigers vs. Ice Devils by Brett Ackling
FIrst game of the night was Devils facing off against the Tigers. Devils coming off the bye last week and the Tigers fresh from a win. Plenty of opportunites for both teams to score but the shots were going wide or saved with excellent work from both keepers. Couple of power plays from both teams couldn't break the score and it went tied nil all at the half. With about 15 to go Keiran got a shot on goal that bounced up off the keeper into the net. Game remained locked at 1-nil for the remainder of the game. Thanks Tigers for a great game.

DruidsB vs. The Penguins by Matt Hellyer
Tonight�s match saw a strong Penguins line up, with a number of new players giving strength to the colony. The game started quite evenly matched with neither team yielding to the few attempts at goal that were made. When the goals started coming however, they were spectacular. The first one came off the back of a hard hit from Damian from half way fumbled through Sarah for an early DruidsB goal, resulting in a 1-0 lead until half time. Then the goals came cascading in, with a blinder belt from Nick from long range shooting straight towards goal screener Matt who neatly dodged the shot allowing it to hit the back of the net. This was followed up by a strong solo run from Dom, supported by Nick and Matt, who performed the ever impressive self hand pass dive shot that saw DruidsB up 3-0. To cap it off, later in the game a prone Nick managed to hack the ball at the goals until the keeper relented bringing the total to four unanswered goals and establishing a Colyer Quadruple. Some sloppier defence gave The Penguins the chance the needed to respond, with Jimmy successfully hooking the ball over the DruidsB keeper�s shoulder with eight minutes to go. Unfortunately it was too little too late.Final score 4-1 to DruidsB. Thanks to The Penguins for a really clean game.

18-AUG-2011
C Division - Week 3
Round 3
Journeymen vs. Dugongs by Tim Boyce
Journeyman got off to the good start in this matchup, scoring through some nice teamwork early, and finished by Darren Pearce. 1-0 at halftime. Jouneymen were forced to leave 2 players off the ice for the second half for wearing jeans, leaving them depleted, and with a challenge to run out the game. They replied with a 2nd half goal through the stick of Tim Boyce, before Dewgongs got on the board with their first goal. James Karamanos and Tim Boyce combined for the Jouneymens 3rd goal, but Degongs answered once again to close the gap. Jouneymen managed to defend their lead and run the game out to win 3-2.

Rhinos vs. Atomix by Jarrad Ferrera
Rhinos and Atomix took to the particularly slippery ice in the first match of the night. Games between these teams have been consistently competitive and this was to be no exception. The first half was a mix of scrappy encounters and near misses as the ice played havoc for both teams. Not especially great conditions for Rhinos newcomer Kerrianne (I hope that�s spelled right) who had an impressive first time performance. After a positive opening deep in Atomix territory, the Rhinos were forced back to their third as the Atomix short pass game cleverly sought out umarked teammates. This caused many tense moments for the Rhinos throughout the game. On target efforts were few and far between, but tight keeping from Rhinos and Atomix ensured a 0-0 score line at the break. As the second half progressed, the drier ice enabled more controlled plays and cleaner shots. Rhinos took advantage of the conditions, with linebreaks often resulting in clear shots on goal. Such efforts by Ryan Priestly and Mark Ferrara were denied by the Atomix defense and some solid keeping. As was the first, the second half ended scoreless. Overtime � and the Atomix did not waste any time taking control in the opening minute. Pressure applied lead to a shot blocked by Jeff Ferrara who instantly went on the counterattack. With Mark in support, the defense was outnumbered and Jeff flicked the ball into the net for the win. 1-0 Thanks to the Atomix for a great game.

Iceatopes vs. Emu Plains Wraith by Mitchell Burrett
Righto, final game of the night, and as always, by the virtue of me doing the writeup the end result is a foregone conclusion. An undermanned Iceatope squad took on the always improving Wraith, who seemed to have half the local community subbing on their bench (I kid, but seriously, let's pad out the C-Grade comp with Wraith 1 and Wraith 2, there's enough of them) First points on the board went to...Wraith. Congrats to Matt Hellyer for dropping the ball past Josh and myself for the easy point. The point revitalised the competition, with Wraith offense turning up a notch, forcing defence out of the Topes. Both teams were able to hold the other out until half time, leading to a hasty revision of strategy for the Topes going into the second half with the score at 0-1. The second half was full of aggressive runs, swings and strong plays, with both teams eager to pull out the W. Without Phil to round out the usual three prong offense, primary goal scoring duty fell to Josh, who notched the first points for the Topes. Grant put another two on the board, with Josh gaining the assist. 3-1 was where it finished at the final buzzer. Thanks as always to Wraith for a highly competitive match, we await the rematch.

15-AUG-2011
A Division - Week 3
Sonics Down Ravens in GF Rematch
Richmond Ravens vs. Werrington County Sonics by Tim Brown
The first clash of last seasons grand finalists, both with two wins to start the season. The match started with a bit of rough stuff Kerry Baxter coming out of it with a black and blue finger. If not for some excellent emergency first aid from and exhausted City2Surfing Jason Wheeler it's likely Sonics would have been one down with Kerry bleeding out on the ice. But the damage was limited to a bit of a bruise. Ravens started strongly and were all over Sonics in the first half. They held the ball better, defended better, and deserved to take the lead after some poor Sonics defence. Sonics did pickup their defence after the goal and the rest of this half seemed to be Ravens in attack still dominating and Sonics a bit better organised and holding them out. Ravens 1-0 up at the break. The second half was a little different. Two goals from Sonics, Andrew Chapman with the first followed by a breakaway goal to Tim Brown completely change the game. Ravens looking strong with the lead were forced to chase the game. Kerry Baxter will a well weighted lob to the boards allowed Tim Brown through to score Sonics third goal and some quick stick work from Ben Robson to a shot rebound pushed the score out to 4. The final score in this game 4-1. The score not so flattering to Ravens though they did have some very good chances in the second half turned away by some excellent goal keeping. Definitely a game of two halves.

Glenmore Park Druids vs. Parramatta Raptors by Louis Sultana
Raptors against Druids. Both teams lost their opening games of the season so were keen to make amends. Raptors opened the scoring through Marc Kuipers. Druids responded through bec Davis redirecting a Saxon Hooper shot. Raptors regained the lead just before the break through Martin Sultana, a close range backhand shot straight through the keepers legs. 2-1 HT. Second Half and Raptors were creating plenty of chances. Daniel Wong extended the lead with a long range shot (not sure how it went it in...but it did). Raptors pushed a little harder to try and extend the lead and were caught out with Dom Colyer with a breakaway goal. Raptors held for on for the win. 3-2 Raptors.

15-AUG-2011
B Division - Week 3
Tigers On the Board
Tigers vs. The Penguins by Ryan Findlayson
The game started a bit back and forth, with a lot of the game in the middle third. Eventually there was some attacking periods for both teams. The first obvious opportunity going to the tigers. A shot around a defender to the far post was brilliantly saved by the Penguins keeper. Penguins also had their shots, but desperate Tigers defence kept restricted any good shots getting through to the keeper. Half time and no score. Second half was more of the same. The deadlock being broken early in the second half when Zac Law pounced on a loose ball and hammered a shot past defenders and keeper alike. Penguins chance of equalising was boosted when Ben "I'll crush any girl" Yabsley-Bell roughed up an opposing female player. Tigers held their structure well during the 2-minute period, and as the time ticked down, ensured they didn't lose defensive structure. Hence Tigers held on for a 1-0 win in a good fun game.

DruidsB vs. Titans by Matt Hellyer
Tonight DruidsB faced off against Titans in a grand final rematch that proved to be just as gruelling.Both sides sported strong teams and used them to their full advantage.Possession throughout the game was fairly even with some great attacks at goal produced by both teams. DruidsB captain Damo was first to score, driving the ball home when it came loose and an open shot between defenders was presented. Still in the first half, a great ball from Damo gave forwards Matt and Nick a perfect setup in front of goals, with Matt passing to an undefended Nick who put it in the back of the net with ease. DruidsB were fortunate not to pick up a penalty a short time later after a stick throwing incident that by rights should have seen Dom sent off for two. Despite a 2-0 deficit, Titans started the second half strongly, almost scoring a couple of times from the faceoff. Eventually their efforts were rewarded when Nissa succeeded in passing to Reese who cracked the ball right over the DruidsB keeper's shoulder. Now the pressure was on for both teams to stop the game getting away from them. Titans defended well, stopping some very strong balls directed at goals to deny DruidsB any further lead. Similarly, DruidsB shutdown some solid attempts from Titans to maintain the 2-1 score in their favour as the full time siren sounded. Thanks Titans for a great game.

11-AUG-2011
C Division - Week 2
Round 2
Journeymen vs. Atomix by Dave Porter
The Atomix knew they'd have to play well to match the Journeymen, and started positively by maintaining posession in their attacking half. Journeymen rebounded with some great attacking runs, which took some desperate defence to keep out. The goalpost also chipped in with a save of it's own. Several shots from both sides failed to find the net and high turnover rates kept everyone running. Despite the Atomix losing a player for a 2min penalty, you couldn't split it at half time, with no score and a very even contest. The second half provided no respite from the running and the Atomix defence lifted in the face of some strong Journeymen attacks. After a few very close chances were well kept out by the Journeymen keeper and defence, the Atomix's kept the slick passing toegther long enough for "Just Quietly" Porter to knock one in off a Dardo assist. Desperate to avoid another OT battle, the Atomix put everything into defence and despite a couple of very close calls, managed to keep the Journeymen at bay. Phew! Close one� Atomix 1-0 at the final siren. Thanks Journeymen for a great game.

Knights Who Say Broomball vs. Rhinos by Josh "When I playing B Grade" Burton
Tonight�s matchup showcases the local rivals of the newly formed Norwest United Group, the Rhinos and Knights. Knights battling again with 5 on the ice were obviously low for numbers, but oh so familiar, while the Rhinos, also low on numbers signed a new recruit with Ryan Priestly joining the Rhinos family. The game started with Rhinos dominated possession and Knights trying for the counter with little success. A critical mistake in front of goal by Kieran was capitalised on by the Rhinos to give them a 1-0 into half time. Knights, eager to equal the ledger, started to force the issue, but finding it hard work to crack the newly formed three-headed monster that the Rhinos have, with Ryan fitting in well. Knights preserved, with a length of the ice goal to Josh to equal to the scores, and a mistake-counter attack finished by Nathan (on a goal streak) to get the game winning goal. Rhinos had chances at the end, but to no avail with the Knights winning 2-1. The Rhinos were unlucky with the counter attack defence costing them. Knights winning a close one to post first win for season.

Iceatopes vs. Dugongs by Jess Valentine
Second week back and we are pumped! This week's C grade game with Iceatopes vs. Dugongs went 3-2 (Topes to win!) The game saw great effort and performance from both teams and some new defensive saves by players either catching the ball with their stomachs and their feet. In the first half, both teams were equally matched and fighting fit. With energy and vibe the game was on, first goal went to Grant (Topes). Then it followed with a score from Dugongs (player unknown-sorry). True to form Topes rose to the challenge and scored again.Making it 2-1. Goal went to Justin (Topes). The Dugongs fought back in the 2nd half with speed and scored their second goal for the night. Making it a tie game. And in true Iceatopes tradition the game went into over time with 5 minutes on the clock! Luckily the Topes pulled together and came through to score, thanks Josh (Topes) to win the match! Thanks Dugongs for the great game!

08-AUG-2011
A Division - Week 2
Ravens Good Form Continues
Richmond Ravens vs. Parramatta Raptors by Jo Mitchell
On a 40 minute power play, Ravens controlled the ball and the game. Raptors managed to keep the score at nil-all for the first half, with some great keeping from Damo Colyer, and good work from Skye Degrueter who volunteered to play her 3rd game of the night to help out. In a spectacular display of team work, Ravens scored two goals in the 2nd half with all players involved in the plays. Steve Dardo passed to Aaron Dymond who skimmed the ball off Mark Kuipers into the net to score the first. Ravens repeatedly set up a patient attacking formation and managed to capitalise a 2nd time when Dane Hansen calmly drew his defender before passing the ball to his wife, who then fed the ball into Andrew Causby making a break through the centre. A beautiful shot put the Ravens gave Ravens their 2nd point. Although there were several notable intercepts by Daniel Wong and both Sultana brothers, these were chased by speedy Ravens defence. Good clean game.

Penrith City Rangers vs. Werrington County Sonics by Tim Brown
Rangers had the fist big chance in the opening minutes a breakout turning into a 1 on 1 chance Andrew Causby in goal denying Luke Simmonds. A sign of what was to come, Rangers going ahead when Bryan Macklin took his 1 on 1 chance. Rangers continued to cut Sonics up on the break there were at least another one more breakaway chance but they were unable to convert. Sonics worked away but were unable to find the net in the first half. Rangers with a 1-0 lead at half time, some better finishing and they could have had the game sewn up. The second half saw Sonics start to create some good chances, but with Rangers still dangerous moving the ball out quickly into attack. Sonic Kerry Baxter getting the equaliser after breakout then a cross from Andrew Chapman finished off on the back post. Sonics then stuck again Jeff Ferrara to Tim Brown shooting through the crowd and finding the net. Sonics taking the win 2-1 in the end, definitely a bit fortunate to beat a very good Rangers team.

08-AUG-2011
B Division - Week 2
Penguins off to a Good Start
Titans vs. The Penguins by James Kristof
Titans dominated the early stages of the game against the Penguins, looking to take an early lead with a restricted bench, they eventually broke through the Penguins defence as Bryn Sheperd made a fast break to slot home the opening goal of the match. However, Penguins greater numbers in subs started to tell as they built up constant pressure on the Titans tiring defence in the second half, eventually equalising after Shannan Heinitz pounced on a Kerryn Lawler assist to make it 1-1. Within a couple of minute after their first goal, Penguins took the lead after Shannan Heinitz was attributed the goal from a Titans own goal mix up. Penguins capped off the match with a goal to Tim Roffey off of a James Kristof pass late in the game, to claim a 3-1 victory.

DruidsB vs. Ice Devils by Kieran McDonald
Second game of the season saw the defending champions take an ever strenthening Ice Devils outfit, both coming off convincing wins in the first round. Ice Devils opened the scoring through Kieran deflecting Anrdew's shot from out wide. Druids hit back with a turnover on halfway line against the run of play to have a two on one with the keeper. Ben managed to stop it the first time but Druids did not give up hitting it into the back of the net. Half time score was 1 all. Second half started the same as the first with both teams playing strong strategic play and Ice devils were the team to break the deadlock through Brett from a breakaway. Then Beck finished up a strong play putting the Ice Devils 2 up. Final score 3-1 to the Ice Devils. Good hard fought game from both sides. Can't wait for the replay.

04-AUG-2011
C Division - Week 1
Round 1
Journeymen vs. Wraith by Darren Pearce
The first match of the night was the Journeymen facing off against the Wraiths. The Journeymen took their time finding their feet again after the break, but eventually a pass from Anke across to James in the centre led to him Scoring the first goal of the season. The Journeymen dominated most of the second half, and fought hard to keep the ball above the red line. This paid off when Anke got her second assist to Kurt, who quickly fired off a shot into goals. Not wanting to be over shadowed by the new players, I took the next drop. As soon as the ball hit the ice I slipped the ball past the Wraith centre and charged down the ice to score the third goal of the Evening. Wraiths had a comeback later in the half with Matt scoring a goal for the Wraiths, but it was too late to prevent a Journeymen Victory. Final score, 3-1.

Dugongs vs. Atomix by Dave Porter
First round of the new season, saw a fitting matchup between the Atomix and Dugongs, a close game always guaranteed. Like Contador to a spanish steak, the Dugongs opened the attacking well, with plenty of possession and territory. The Atomix countered with some line breaks but couldn't quite finish them off, thanks to some good keeping and wayward shots. Dugongs inched ahead after an unfortunate deflection off Tarnz' boot found the back of the net. Atomix came back with two classy efforts (and two goals) to Whoa Black Betty Bam Balaam, combining with Dardo and Dardo/Porter respectively. Unfortunately the Atomix couldn't link together more combos like these and the Dugongs hit back, with a long range shot that beat everyone to make it 2-2. Exhausted from end to end Broomball and a tight contest saw some trepidation heading into Overtime. An early OT turnover from the Atomix could've ended badly, however Dardo shut down the attack, got into some space, and netted the matchwinner from outside the blue line...phew! Thanks to the Dugongs for another cliffhanger...

Iceatopes vs. Knights Who Say Broomball by Josh Newell
Icetopes 4-3

01-AUG-2011
A Division - Week 1
Sonics Start the Season Well
Richmond Ravens vs. Penrith City Rangers by No One
Ravens continued their good form from last season winning 3-0.. but didnt do a write up :(
-1 Duty Point.

Glenmore Park Druids vs. Werrington County Sonics by Tim Brown
Sonics played Druids in their first game of the season.\ Saxon Hooper rejoining Druids after a brief, one season stint, with Ravens. The game started with both sides holding their own and looking to score. Druids with maybe the best chances, Sonics making an error on the breakout and turning over the ball which quickly made its way to Saxon Hooper. He had time to size up the shot but fired it over the crossbar, Sonics scrambling defence perhaps forcing him to rush the shot. A penalty for a push gave Sonics a power play opportunity. Druids forcing a few turnovers early on, keeping Sonics out of their half for half the power play, then blocking a number of shots too see off Sonics one player advantage. However, with a player running back into play off the bench Jason Wheeler had one last shot on goal which managed to find it's way through the crowd and into the bottom corner. Sonics ending the half a slender lead and probably fortunate to have the advantage. Sonics pushed on in the second half however scoring two more goals and holding an frustrated Druids outfit to nil. Ben Robson finished the first from a Jason Wheeler pass on a quick counter attack. Then Alana Bracken, filling in for this game, seting up Jason Wheeler to break past the defence and striking a low shot that was too hot for the keeper, the ball spilling out for Tim Brown to finish off at the back post. A great start to the season for Sonics, Druids looking a little rusty, a couple under the crossbar instead of over it and this could have been a very different story.

01-AUG-2011
B Division - Week 1
DruidsB Continue to Set the Benchmark in B Grade
Titans vs. Ice Devils by No One
-1 Duty Point for Ice Devils for no write up after winning over Titans.

DruidsB vs. Tigers by Matt Hellyer
DruidsB took on a new look Tigers, who were out in blue and white tonight and augmented by Saxon Hooper and a number of other new faces. DruidsB looked strong from the beginning, nearly opening up the scoring a few minutes into the game and only denied by solid defensive play and keeping. From there the game settled down into the usual rhythm of back and forth play with both teams having chances at goal. Dom Colyer was the only one able to capitalise on the opportunities in the first half however, putting DruidsB up 1-0 going into half time. A couple of send offs against DruidsB briefly gave Tigers the upper hand, but the powerplays did not result in points much to the relief of the rest of the team. Instead, DruidsB went on to score one after the other with goals going to Damo and Jo followed by a stunner from Katie whose shot was deflected by a defender straight to the back of the net. Rotating goalkeepers Aaron and Joel successfully prevented any backlash leaving the end result DruidsB 4-0 over Tigers, an uncharacteristically good start to the season for the reigning premiers.

30-JUN-2011
A Division - Finals
Ravens Shock Raptors
Preliminary Final: Richmond Ravens vs. Parramatta Raptors by Joanne Mitchell
Ravens continue their winning streak as Aaron Dymond scores again. A good clean game with plenty of skill and team work from both sides. Great keeping from Jimmy K and Keiran kept most of the balls out of the net. Great team work and consistent commitment to their fore-checking strategy meant Aaron had a great shot on goal � well placed over the goalkeeper�s far shoulder. Well done to Jessica German who played well in only her second A grade final. Good luck to Ravens who play Sonics for the trophy next Monday night at 8.15.

30-JUN-2011
B Division - Finals
Druids B Earn A Rematch with Titans
Preliminary Final: The Penguins vs. Druids B by Matt Hellyer
DruidsB took on The Penguins tonight in an epic showdown for a spot in the B Grade Grand Final. DruidsB remained without key players Damo, Kate and Cam but still fielded a reasonably sized team with a couple of subs available for the guys and a rotating goal keeper. A goal in the first half went to Dominic Colyer when he slotted the ball narrowly across the goal face putting DruidsB in front by one. This was by no means a comfortable margin though with The Penguins able to maintain convincing pressure throughout the game. Again it was agile saves by Aaron Parker that denied some close calls. It wasn�t until a goal was scored by Nick Colyer late in the second half that DruidsB position was solidified. The 2-0 victory to DruidsB sees them facing Titans (again) in next Monday�s Grand Final.

30-JUN-2011
C Division - Finals
Iceatopes Oust Journeymen!
Preliminary Final: Journeymen vs. Iceatopes by Mitch Burrett
Wooo, alright here we go. Redemption opportunity for the Iceatopes and opportunity to step up for the Journeymen. Winner bounces into the C-Grade final against the Knights. With the stakes so high, both teams took to the ice with full teams, pulling out all the stops to make the most of the opportunity. The first half brought with it solid broomball action from both teams, with consistent offense and defense keeping all players on their toes. As the minutes ticked away, an air of desperation began to fill the arena, as both teams struggled to balance maintaining the fast pace of the first half, with the concentration needed to shoot straight at goals *Cough* Josh *Cough* Phil put the first points on the board for the Topes, with Grant not far behind, bringing the score to 2-0 in favour of the purple premiers with five minutes to go. Despite the Journeymen ramping up their goal shots and offensive pressure, they were unable to convert that intensity into digital numbers on the board. Final score sat at 2-0 with the Topes to meet the thorn in their side once again in the grand final.

27-JUN-2011
A Division - Finals
Sonics into The Grand Final
Elimination Final: Richmond Ravens vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Joanne Mitchell
3rd placed Ravens played 4th placed Druids for a place in the semi final on Thursday night. Ravens scored early when Andrew picked a pass from Saxon out of the air, expertly placing it over the keepers shoulder. Great team work in offence saw Aaron Dymond scoring the 2nd goal for Ravens, giving them a comfortable lead at half time. The 2nd half of the game was a very evenly matched half. Druids applied plenty of pressure in attack, Glen ButlerFleming converting this into a goal to close the gap between the two. Ravens held on to the lead and Aaron Dymond scored his 2nd goal of the night, leaving the score at 3-1 for the end of the game. Ravens will play Raptors on Thursday night to see who will fight Sonics for the title on Monday 4/7.

Qualifying Final: Werrington County Sonics vs. Parramatta Raptors by Tim Brown
An even match in the first half with neither team really getting on top. Sonics came very close to scoring at the start of the second half with Dhyana Scarano putting the ball just the wrong side of the back post. Raptors then opened the scoring when Daniel Wong gave chase to a ball tossed deep into Sonics territory. Daniel charged down pressuring one defender, into a rushed pass, and then crashing into another behind the net. The collision making for an easy turnover. Daniel passed to the front of net where Reece Shepherd was waiting to strike a shot low and passed the keeper, the defence a little slow in getting back. Sonics then struck back with Tim Brown making a break down the wing then flicking the ball inside over a defenders stick for Jason Wheeler to place in the top corner. The match winner came with another Tim Brown break down the wing an inside ball to Jason Wheeler, the pass looked to far behind him, but Wheeler managed to drag it forward and was able to put it in the net on his third attempt. Sonics through to the final.

27-JUN-2011
B Division - Finals
Titans Upset Druids B for a Spot in the Grand Final
Elimination Final: The Penguins vs. Ice Devils by James Kristof
The 3rd vs 4th finals match saw Ice Devils come up against a Penguins team that looked more like a Dugongs team with a few Penguins players in it (thus the Pengongs were born). Ice Devils started the far stronger of the two teams, as Penguins struggled to get the ball out of their own half for long periods, however it was the Penguins that broke the deadlock against the run of play as Tim Roffey returning from W.A. for the finals series pounced on an Aaron Symes pass, slotting the ball into the back of the net to give Penguins a 1-0 lead. The lead did not last long however as Ice Devils continued to dominate going into halftime, with Mark Kuipers squaring things up late in the half to make it 1-1. Ice Devils tired in the second half which allowed Penguins to slow the pace of the game down and start to mount some pressure of their own, eventually regaining the lead through a Nathan Fielding goal off of a Daniel Wong assist. The goal proved to be the decisive one as Penguins ended up winning the game 2-1.

Qualifying Final: Druids B vs. Titans by Nissa Dezman
It was a dark and stormy night, except that it wasn't stormy. And the ice rink was pretty well lit, so nobody cared too much about the darkness. There were pep talks. Ours was a reminder that if we won this match, we wouldn't have to come back on Thursday. We were pumped. The ball dropped and everybody went nuts trying to win without casualty. Our most recently injured, Jesse, kept close watch on the door, staring enviously at everybody else's uninjured knees. We nearly got it in theirs, then they nearly got it in ours, and then the ball was whacked off the ice. This was repeated a few times. Half time came. Nobody had scored. Another pep talk reminded us of the importance of scoring in order to win the game and not come back on Thursday. The pep talk worked! After a bit of scrambling and a lot of effort, the ball went in their goal. Whew. Now to hold on to that one goal difference. The Druids came close a couple of times, but we managed to keep the ball out of our goal. Finally full-time sounded, and it was settled. 1-0 to the Titans, and we'll see the winner of Thursday's match for the final.

24-JUN-2011
C Division - Finals
Knights Through !
Elimination Final: Journeymen vs. Dugongs by Tim Boyce
Having come off a very close season, with only a few points separating 1st and 4th, the finals were always going to produce some excitement. Both Dugongs and Journeymen were coming off tough fought games that went to overtime in the last round of the regular season, and were keen to progress through to take on the Icetopes in the semi final next week. Dugongs got off to the best possible start, pressing forward from the opening drop, and scoring in the first minute from a great wide out shot that hit its mark. After their quick start, Dugongs played with plenty of confidence, and had the Journeyman's defense scrambling for most of the opening minutes. Their pace troubled the Journeyman, and eventually that persistence paid off, with a centering pass finding a free man directly in front on goals who finished off nicely. At 2-0 down, Journeymen needed desperately to get themselves into the game, and it was a great individual run, and strong shot from James Karamanos that seemed to spark them into action. Journeyman clambered back into control in the latter minutes of the second half, controlling the ball much better, and putting pressure on the Dewgongs defense. A lifted pass from James Karamanos that found Timothy Boyce in the open behind the Dewgongs defense, resulted in a nice reverse stick volley that beat the keeper and squared it all up at half time, 2-2. Dewgongs started after break much like they started the first half, rushing the Journeymen defense, and were quickly again out to a 3-2 lead. Dewgongs then settled back into defense, and protected their lead, determined not to let the Journeyman repeat their first half efforts. Dewgongs made it very difficult, choking the attack of the Journeyman, and cleverly clearing the ball, forcing Journeyman to do alot of running to keep onside. However with 4 minutes on the clock, a long shot from Tim Boyce managed to find its way through a pair of defenders legs, and past the goalkeeper to once again even the scores at 3-3, and send the game into overtime. Darren Pearce almost put Journeymen into the lead from the drop, but some scrambling defense denied him at the crucial moment. However, the Dewgongs defender was penalized for entering the keepers crease too early, which gave Journeymen a man up advantage early in OT. This proved a decisive penalty, and Timothy Boyce converted the advantage with his third goal for the night to make it 4-3. Not wanting to sit back and defend, Journeyman pressed in attack again, however this resulted in a Jouneymen player being penalized for also entering the crease too early, and gave Dewgongs a chance to even it up again. Dewgongs put piles of pressure on the Journeyman defense, but some great saving efforts from Bree, and some tireless running from Natalee denied them repeatedly, to send Journeyman into next weeks semi with Icetopes. A great see-sawing contest all round, and while Dewgongs may be eliminated, they should be proud of the great effort they put in to force such a close game.

Qualifying Final: Iceatopes vs. Knights Who Say Broomball by Brett Ackling
Scoring was opened by the topes about halfway through the first half off a break away. This was quickly countered by the Knights with a goal going to Josh from a behind the nets pass from Brett. Topes hit back with their next goal coming from the halfway from Josh with an unlucky deflection of the Knights into the net. Knights hit back when Brett got the ball to Keiran with an open shot. 2 all and into over time. Knights went in with the advantage with Grant being sent of late in the 2nd half and then swearing at the refs. Goal went to Josh from the Knights with a minute left on the penalty clock. 3-2. Brett then got a long range shot in from half way to take the Knights up 4-2. Knights get the week off with the Iceatopes playing the journeyman for a spot in the grand final.

24-JUN-2011
D Division - Finals
Wraith in OT
Preliminary Final: Emu Plain Wraith vs. Atomix by Matt Hellyer
Emu Plains Wraith entered the D grade Preliminary Final uncharacteristically short on girls, with only Jodie available to play for the whole game and Ashlyn for just under half of it. ATOmix were also short, missing key play maker Steve Dardo. Despite being the underdogs, Wraith spirits were high as the game commenced with a full complement of guys available for subbing. The first half of the game was largely uneventful, with some early breaks on the part of ATOmix successfully wrapped up by better Wraith defensive play. Entering half time with a nil all score line despite being a player down was a small victory for the team and helped boost confidence going into the second half. With captain Matt Hellyer predominantly playing in a defensive position or as goal keeper and Jodie conserving energy as a defender, the pressure was on the all male forward pack to deliver the results. And they did. When Andrew Shaw made a solo run and scored the first goal of the night about 7.5 minutes in, the team and supporters on the sideline went wild. ATOmix were not deterred however and five minutes later they were able to exploit Wraith�s tiring defence with a Mark-Mika combo that sent the ball sailing narrowly over the keeper�s head. Now the pressure was on for both teams to score again before the game was over to secure a place in the Grand Final. But it was not to be. Instead, overtime was played with five minutes stop time and no golden goal rule. Still being down a girl, Wraith played with three players versus ATOmix�s four. Jodie stayed in defence, Matt played in the centre and the guys took it in turns to play as a forward, starting with Andrew who was fresh from extensive bench-warming. Surprisingly Wraith maintained the majority of possession and about 1:20 into OT, Matt Hellyer was able to bypass the forwards and slot a shot past the remaining defender to bring the score to 2-1. ATOmix�s response was fast and executed with precision. At the drop Mark took possession and slipped past an exhausted Jodie with Mika in support leaving a two on one situation that they took full advantage of, putting the ball into the back of an undefended net and bringing the score to 2-2, all in the space of about 10 seconds. With 3:30 left on the clock adrenalin set in to replace the flagging energy. A �goal� scored soon after by Matt Hellyer was of course disallowed due to the one goal limit placed on higher grade players and plenty of slipping over was indicative of the level of tiredness that had taken hold. For the final few minutes Josh Lim took to the ice knowing that it had to be him that scored. After some initial delays, he was able to make a miraculous diagonal shot that rolled in and put Wraith in the lead with 50 seconds to go. At the drop Matt took possession of the ball and ran all around the ice with it to ensure it didn�t fall onto opposition brooms. When the siren sounded a great cheer arose from the bench as Wraith celebrated their first ever finals victory, defeating a tenacious ATOmix 3-2 in OT after a gruelling battle.

24-JUN-2011
B Division - Week 20
Titan's Win Puts them in Second
The Penguins vs. Titans by Russell Gregory
The final Match for the regular season in B grade boils down to two fierce teams both vying for the coveted second position on the final ladder. Either team could have finished as high as second and have the safety of avoiding a sudden death game, or as low as fourth. The game as fast from the outset. Plenty of tough defence from both teams as well as some penalties saw a bit of a see - sawing , end to end type game. The Titans struck first with a crushing shot off the post into the back of the net from Dave DeGruyter, putting them into the box seat for the remainder of the match. The Penguins didn't give up, and with a plethora of subs they had the fresh legs but were unable to convert the advantage into goals, courtesy of Ninja Goalie Greg Dezman and some tight (but tired) Titans defence. Final Score 1-0 to Titans and its off to the finals we go. One of the hardest B Grade games that we have seen for a long time, and a fitting way to end the regular season.

20-JUN-2011
A Division - Week 20
Last Round of the Season
Richmond Ravens vs. Penrith City Rangers by Joanne Mitchell
4-0 to Ravens, Rangers played with only 5 players as they were missing a girl putting Ravens on a perpetual power play. Rangers still managed a few chances but spent the majority of the game in defence. Ravens were missing a few playing too but managed to win the game, putting them in 3rd place at the end of the season. Jo and Alana teamed up for the 2nd week in a row to score a nice goal, with a 2nd goal by Jo (her first double in A grade) and 2 from Saxon making up the rest.

Glenmore Park Druids vs. Parramatta Raptors by Louis Sultana
Last game of the A-Grade regular season saw the Parramatta Raptors up against the Glenmore Park Druids. Both teams had plenty to play for but the Druids looked the most in Control. They forechecked aggressively which didnt allow the Raptors any room to break out. The Raptors resisted the early onslaught and found some space through Daniel Wong. Wong beating several players and after some fortunate help from a Druids defender, the ball trickled past the keeper. No more goals in the first half. 1-0 HT. Second Half and the Druids applied more pressure, trying to grab the equaliser. This provided plenty of open space for the Raptors and soon after the break, Louis Sultana drilled the ball from the blue line, straight past the keeper. The assist coming from the newest Raptor's player, Jessica Germain. The Raptors had more opportunities but couldnt convert. FT 2-0 Raptors.

20-JUN-2011
B Division - Week 20
Druids Minor Premiers, Penguins and Titans Fighting for 2nd on Thursday
Huskies vs. Tigers by No One
Huskies with a 5-2 Win, nice to see the Vost sisters back playing for Huskies.

Ice Devils vs. DruidsB by Matt Hellyer
DruidsB came out against Ice Devils tonight, down captain Damian Colyer (out due to recent surgery) and Cameron Thomas (injured) instead picking up Joel and Jake Robson who had been MIA for several weeks as a result of sickness and other commitments. At the drop, Dominic Colyer took advantage of some initial lethargy from the opposition taking a solo run and going on to score in the opening seconds of the game to give DruidsB a boost from the outset. As the game progressed, Ice Devils picked up the pace, taking full advantage of the many fast forwards available to them and creating many opportunities at goal. This eventually led to them evening the score line, though some excellent defensive play and stunning work in goals prevented any further success. DruidsB broke the deadlock when slow defensive play allowed Matt Hellyer a solo run at goals, which he successfully converted to points with a last second flick of the wrist bringing the ball over the top of the goal keeper�s outstretched arm and making up for several less that average plays previously. DruidsB by no means looked comfortable with their lead, with some Ice Devils shots shut down only by agile goalkeeping.Eventually however the clock proved to be DruidsB�s ally and with no further scoring, the game ended 2-1 in their favour.

09-JUN-2011
C Division - Week 18
Final Round for C Grade
Icatopes vs. Emu Plains Wraith by Mitchell Burrett
Final week of C-grade kicked off with the topes taking on the always-out-in-force Wraith. Both teams were looking to solidify their spot in the rankings, hoping to etch their name in broomball history. But, as we've learnt from Highlander, there can be only one! Kudos must be given to the wraith keeper in the first half, you endured a barrage of tope assaults and never gave up. Strong tactics and passing skills were shown by both teams, with the intensity rising as the clock counted down. Goals went to Grant, Josh, Justin, Steph and Jess, with only Phil and yours truly left without netted glory. Final score was 5-2, thanks to Wraith for a highly competitive match, you're all improving by leaps and bounds.

Dugongs vs. Knights Who Say Broomball by No One
Knights got up in OT but no write up. -1 duty point (cost them the minor premiership).

Rhinos vs. Journeymen by Darren Pearce
The last game of the season saw the Journeymen and Rhinos face off. The Rhinos held possession of the ball for most of the first half, putting plenty of pressure on the Journeymen's defence. But it wasn't until till Jeff Ferra made a break from his own line to put one past the goalie. The second goal of the night was a team effort as the rhinos crowded the goals and forced the ball past the muddle. Come the second half. The journeymen found themselves on the boards when Luke Monaghan passed the ball to Tim Boyce, who hooked the ball around the Rhino's goal. The Evener of the night game again from Tim Boyce, who fired a shot from far out to bring the score 2-2, where it stayed for the rest of the match

Brass Monkeys vs. Atomix
A forfeit win for Atomix but they used the ice time well bringing along half a dozen newbies and doing some training before playing a scratch match with the new guys.

02-JUN-2011
B Division - Week 17
Huskies in Epic Fail
DruidsB vs. Huskies
Only two Huskies showed gifting Druids B a 5-0 forfeit win.

02-JUN-2011
C Division - Week 17
Final Round for C Grade Next Week!!
Journeymen vs. Knights Who Say Broomball by Tim Boyce
After these teams shared points in an overtime draw last time they met, this was bound to be a close encounter. Knights kicked off the scoring early, taking opportunity of a missed pass in the Journeyman defensive half to snare the early lead. Journeyman responded quickly though, when Natalee Beadman set up a reverse stick shot from Tim Boyce to level the scores. Knights quickly took the lead again through some good teamwork and and a nice finish, but Journeyman squared it up before halftime with Darren Pearce centering the ball to Tim Boyce who finished once again. The 2nd half started with another goal from the Knights, this time through a long range shot that was on target. With both teams only having limited subs, and tiring noticeably, Knights then settled into defending their 1 goal lead, and successfully kept Journeyman in their own half, and starved them of much of the possession for the majority of the second half. With under a minute on the clock, and looking a little tired and desperate, Journeyman put together one of the plays of the game, with Tim Boyce, James Karamanos and Jason Solomon putting a string of nice passes together, which ended up with Tim taking a shot from a very tight angle. While the Knights keeper got a block on the ball, it amazingly flew over his shoulder, and with the spin it crawled just over the goal line in something that seemed like a slow motion reply. Once again the Journeyman and Knights game head into overtime, and despite opportunities for both teams to score, neither were able to convert. Amazingly, after 90 minutes of ice time this season, there is still nothing between these 2 sides, with the ledger reading 2 overtime draws. If the Journeyman and Knights meet in the finals, its going to be one exciting contest.

Atomix vs. Emu Plain Wraith by Dave Porter
Dosed high on Weetbix, the Atomix took on the Nutri-grain inspired Wraith, with Russ and Tarnz's late arrival claimed to be due to downing 34 bix between them. Russ maintained he wasn't at Hooters' grand opening. Upon learning of Russ' antics at Hooters' grand opening, Ransey remained holed up in their Blue Mountains compound, which meant EJ and Tarnz were in for a long night of running with no subs. Posession was the Atomix chant, and after an early opening exchange, the Wraith were bunkered in their defensive half (like Russ at Hooters), as the weight of posession gave way to two close range goals by Whoa Black Betty Bam Balaam and Anthony who staked an early claim in his career for goal of the year and VIP membership at Hooters with Russ. 2-0 at half time. Wraith struck back in the second half, slotting one past the Atomix defence from long range, with Pato cursing his choices in defence and the trackpants he wore with Russ to Hooters. Not content with setting up Anthony, Velcro Dardo countered some Kewell-esque skills of the Wraith forwards with some textbook stick and board work before opening his own account on goal and on the Hooters bar with Russ. Mika briefly paused from going a over t to knock another close range goal in to make it 4-1, ably supported by Russ who kept talking about going a over t at Hooters' grand opening. The weight of posession and great defence combined to keep the strong Wraith attack out, and a final late goal to Mark gave the Atomix their biggest win of the season at 5-1. Thanks to the Wraith and refs for a much closer game than the scoreboard suggested, whilst Russ was just happy we finished in regular time, so he could go back to Hooters.

30-MAY-2011
A Division - Week 17
Sonics look to have Secured the Minor Premiership
Richmond Ravens vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Joanne Mitchell (added to by Saxon Hooper)
Druids defector Saxon Hooper opened the scoring against his old team with a bouncing ball over the keepers legs from close range. The Druids responded with a hard shot to the back of the net from Dom. The sequence was repeated after the Ravens chicks teamed up for the 3rd goal in the game, Alana Bracken finding Jo Mitchell who slotted it past the keeper. Zac followed that goal up with another for Druids. The game was hard fought with some clever intercepts from both teams. Unfortunately there was not enough time in the game for Druids to even the score after the 5th goal of the game was scored when Saxon swept the ball in behind the keeper from a beautiful pass from his team mate Jo Mitchell.

Penrith City Rangers vs. Werrington County Sonics by Tim Brown
Another fast paced match between these two teams. No scoring in the first half with Sonics probably having the better of possession but with a few bad turnovers in attack Rangers were unlucky not to get a breakaway goal or two. The second half saw three goals, the first from Sonics with a loose pass falling for Tim Brown, reacting quickly, to awkwardly strike a shot over the goaltenders right shoulder. Rangers equalised soon after with a spectacular shot from Liam Golding. But Sonics took the points with Jeff Ferrera forcing a turnover as Rangers tried to escape their defensive zone. Jeff squeezed a pass through two Rangers to Jason Wheeler tracking back from attack, Wheeler spotted an unmarked Alana Bracken, Bracken passing immediately up field to Kerry Baxter in plenty of space to the left of goal. Wheeler had made a run and Baxter took the ball toward goal before passing to a Jason trying to onetime a shot on goal. Rangers goalkeeper, James Kristof, was diving out to make the save only to see the ball pass Jasons stick bounce off his knee and back into range of his stick to be tapped neatly over the surprised and sprawling goal tender. Sonics held their lead to the end with Rangers fighting hard for equaliser, even pulling their keeper. Sonics winning but now having 3 week break before finals.

30-MAY-2011
B Division - Week 17
Wow No ontime Write Ups
The Penguins vs. Tigers by No One
Tigers won int OT but get -1 duty point for now write up though :(.

Ice Devils vs. Titans by Brett Ackling(but too late and not enough)
Final Score was 3-nil to Ice Devils with goals coming from Fejj, Josh and Causby.

26-MAY-2011
C Division - Week 16
Brass Monkeys Dead
Iceatopes vs. Brass Monkeys
Forfeit win for Iceatopes.

Dugongs vs. Rhinos by Scott Powell
The battle of the grey mammilians. The land mammals faced off against the sea dwelling mammals on the ice, a perfect middle ground, for the second time of the season. Can't remember who won the previous encounter, but I think it may have gone into overtime... Most games between the two sides are usually fast and frenetic, however illness took the edge off both teams, and while there were plenty of fast breaks from both sides early on, the game soon settled into a slightly more sedate pace. Dugongs had the possession but not the field position early, but the majority of the first half saw the Rhinos camped deep in Dugong territory, Sarah�s feet and Ron�s keeping skills deflecting shot after shot. 0-0 at halftime, the Dugongs desperately needing the halftime break to re-organize themselves. The second half was more evenly matched in terms of possession and territory, both teams having shots and scrambling in defence. After some time fighting over the ball at the halfway mark, Scott made a lumbering jog down the edge, and attempted a cross to Aaron which instead hit the side netting. A physicist may have been able to explain how the ball eventually ended up crossing the goal-line, but it confounded those of us on the ice. 1-0 Dugongs. Buoyed by their lucky break, the Dugongs pressed their advantage and minutes later a barrelling run from Nathan saw him clean up his own deflected shot behind goal, flicking a ball to Mark who slotted it past the keeper for a 2-0 lead with about 10 minutes to go. The Rhinos lifted to try and cut the lead, but the Dugong defence held firm, the final score 2-0, after lots of hard work and plenty of chance. Thanks to the Rhinos for yet another great game.

NSW Orange vs. NSW Blue
Orange dominated an understrength Blue team for a 2-0 win. Next Orange vs Blue game 16/06/2011 (lock it in).

16-MAY-2011
A Division - Week 15
A Grade Back after Months (Nationals/Byes/Mens/Womens)
Richmond Ravens vs. Parramatta Raptors by Louis Sultana
Raptors v Ravens in the first Game of the night. Both teams were short of players. Both teams had chances but the Ravens were looking the stronger of the two. 0-0 Halftime. Second half and the Ravens were dominating but could not convert. A lucky turnover at the halfway mark by the Raptors, allowed Marc Kuipers and Dani Mitrevski to combine with Kuipers getting the final touch. Raptors held on for a tough victory. 1-0 Raptors.

Glenmore Park Druids vs. Werrington County Sonics by Tim Brown
Due to sickness, work, or some other reason only 4 Sonics made it for this match. None of the girls available meant we had to pickup two exhausted recruits from the previous game. It wasn't feeling like it was going to be a good night. As it turned out it was a very good night for Sonics. Scoring early on, defending well enough to keep Druids at bay, then pushing on in the second half to score a few more. Druids did manage a goal late in the second half but it was too little too late.

16-MAY-2011
B Division - Week 15
B Grade Back after Months (Nationals/Byes/Mens/Womens)
The Penguins vs. Huskies by James Kristof
The match between the Penguins and the Huskies was a match of two understrength teams. Huskies were missing several experienced players and were down a player for the whole match, whilst Penguins were missing 7 players from their roster at the start of the season, and had Joel Bateman, Mark Simms from Dugongs and Kate Yabsley making up their numbers. Despite being a player down it was Huskies who started the better of the two teams, dominating in attack and breaking the deadlock early on with a thunderous shot from Troy Carroll. Penguins fought back as they started to gel into a more cohesive structure, Joel Bateman getting an equaliser just before halftime. The second half saw the Penguins weight of numbers start to tell on the match, but a desperate Huskies defence kept them at bay until only 3 minutes left when Joel Bateman passed to James Kristof who slotted home a goal to give the Penguins a 2-1 lead. Less than a minute later Joel was on the scoresheet again with his second goal, Penguins 3-1 up and looking comfortable for the win, until Ryan Priestley scored almost immediately for Huskies to claw it back to 3-2. However, with only a few seconds left to play, Joel Bateman completed his hat-trick off Scott Powell pass to give Penguins a hard-fought 4-2 win.

Glenmore Park Druids vs. Titans by Russell Gregory
With the Titans back playing together after a 6 week hiatus, this was always going to be a tough contest against one of their biggest rivals in the competition. The Titans did welcome back Captain Russell Gregory from an ankle injury that saw him on the sidelines for 11 weeks, and with another key player Bryn Shepherd only weeks away from returning after surgery on his ankle, the Titans are coming home strong entering the end of the regular season. The game was one of possession, with both teams trying hard to convert the possession into goals. Some awesome keeping from Greg 'Goalie Ninja' Dezman and Reece Shepherd was a highlight of the first half. After Chris Dezman put a goal away with some fancy footwork off the back of a pass from Reece Shepherd, And a penalty against the Druids for an aggressive pick that was deemed to be obstruction, the Titans went to the break with a 1-0 lead. With the Titans still on the Power play, for the first 2 minutes of the second half, they dominated the play with some structured passing almost leading to another goal (but stopped by some desperate keeping from the Druids). A penalty to Titan Chris Dezman for tripping, saw the Titans on the back foot and despite being back to full strength The Druids drew level on the scoreboard after a fortuitous goal shot from behind the goal deflecting off the keepers leg and rolling into the back of the net. Off to overtime we go. Druids had the majority of the ball in O/T, however a breakaway with 2 1/2 minutes left saw Reece Shepherd Slam it home into the back of an empty net to register a win for the Titans. A satisfying win over one of the top teams in the grade, getting their season back on track.

12-MAY-2011
C Division - Week 14

Rhinos vs. Atomix by Dave Porter
Always a tough matchup, Atomix were hoping lack of subs would hurt the Rhinos later in the game. With newly appointed Public Relations Officer Morley capturing the action and fending off team residency queries from Trump, Velcro Dardo's early efforts to slot one past the Rhino's keeper edged us ahead on the scoreboard and kept the dream alive. Whoa Black Betty Bam Balaam had the GPS on and ran just under 35km during the match, each one of them at full tilt. A 1-0 scoreline at the end of the first half wasn't going to be enough and neither was the lack of posession the Atomix carried over. Second half saw Fortress Micallef brilliantly fend off more attacks whilst pre-nup Ransey continued solid D, combining with EJ who introduced finesse and skill into her match repitoire of brute force and intimidation. A great mid range shot from the Rhinos levelled the match at 1-1 and Atomix clawed back some posession, although the deadlock remained with a couple of chances going wide and Mika getting familiar with the penalty box. 1-1 at full time and straight into OT. Russ was the fresh legs of Bel Air and with Mark led the onslaught with Ransey and EJ who were both now a deep shade of purple. Mark somehow got sin binned mid way through and the remaining three fended off attack after attack until the final siren kept it at 1-1. Thanks Rhinos for another nail-biter

Iceatopes vs. Knights Who Say Broomball by Mitchell Burrett
Righto, grand final rematch...again... so let's get into it! First impressions as we took to the ice? The Knights are now rocking the coolest jerseys in C-Grade. Game started easy enough, back and forth, minimal pyro and ballyhoo. First point went to the Knights, when Brett capitalised on a breakaway run, taking the score to 1-0. Not to worry, as was often the case in broomball it is simply a matter of oneupsmanship. Halfway through the first half, Josh used a deflection to put one past the Knights keeper (I believe it was Bec at this point, who was sounding rather duck-like due to a nasty cough). Score going into halftime was 1-1. The second half began to increase in competitiveness, with both teams eager to avoid another game going into overtime. Pressure upon both teams keepers began to show, with Grant and Justin able to get the ball across the line, taking the Topes ahead 2-1. Despite heavy offence from Kieran and Josh Burton, Knights were unable to level the score. Thanks to the Knights for an always competitive match, both teams look ahead to the next round.

Dugongs vs. Emu Plains Wraith by Scott Powwell
Wraith and Dugongs faced off for the second time this season, with the Wraith taking the last encounter 1-0. The Wraith with an army of subs, they dwarfed even a near full strength Dugongs, so both teams knew we were heading for a fast paced match, and we were not disappointed. Dugongs had an early advantage, camping in front of the Wraiths goals, but awesome keeping kept out a number of Dugong shots, including one that deflected off the top post and fell agonisingly close to the goal line. The constant attack by the Dugongs eventually led to a goal, Nathan cleaning up the scraps from one of his own shots to find Mark infront of goals, who was able to sneak the ball in past a diving keeper to the give the Dugongs a 1-0 advantage. The Wraith fired up after the goal, and the game became a constant struggle, both teams making runs deep into the opposition territory, but unable to finish off good crosses, solid defence from both teams kept the score 1-0 at halftime. The second half saw more of the same, fresh legs keeping the game moving at a steady pace, with neither side gaining a particular advantage over the other, and both sides having multiple good chances turned away. A specatular run by Chris along the wall saw him move in towards goal, and unselfishly pass to an unmarked Nathan who slotted it past the keeper to give the Dugongs a 2-0 lead with only minutes to go. The last five minutes saw the Wraith strangle the Dugongs attack, and all the possession was in front of the Dugong goals. Desperate defence and scrambling saw the Dugongs narrowly hold on, 2-0 the final score. Thanks to the Wraith for yet another great match played in a friendly spirit, hope we dont have to face you in the finals!

07-APR-2011
C Division - Week 9

Iceatopes vs. Atomix by Dave Porter
The Atomix haven't had to complete too many write-ups after facing the Iceatopes, and took a depleted line up into the nuclear derby with spent fuel rods reported by several players. Jo-Bomb's broken nail in practice threatened to cease proceedings, however it only enhanced her keeping skills, shutting down several shots on goal. We will systematically break all her nails prior to future games. Early opening stages had Atomix with plenty of posession, yet lucky to escape a few strong Iceatope attacks. Mika swiftly put his underwear on the outside and combined with Steve to slot two in the net within a couple of minutes. This held until the Iceatopes levelled through a fast break and combo effort, going into the break at 2-2. The close contest continued in the second half, with some great shots nicely saved until Iceatopes bounced one in off the crossbar to inch ahead 3-2. It was around this time Gimme did her level best to bury herself under the ice, her incapacity and penalty leaving the Atomix short, with an uninterrupted future Xbox session the silver lining. Mika donned a cape, became radioactive-man and scored his 3rd of the night, levelling again at 3-3 which put it all into overtime. Gimme's jibberish was taken as cheering whilst the OT players played end to end until Steve slotted one past the defence to wrap up a rare win against the Iceatopes. Thanks to all and refs for a ripper game.

Dugongs vs. Wraith by Dominique Glazier
The game started slowly, but quickly picked up pace. The ball went back and forth, with both teams taking shots at goal, however, good defence on both sides managed to thwart all efforts. Towards the end of the first half, some great Wraith passing put the ball in the possession of Matt, who hit the ball behind him to score for Wraith (much to his surprise). Dugongs kicked it up a notch, as the first half neared its end, producing some great shots and near misses; however, they were thwarted by some great saves by Sarah. In the second half, Wraith kept attacking, but did not manage to convert. Dugongs put the pressure on as the second half progressed and Wraith started to struggle. Dugongs made one shot at goal after another, forcing Wraith into defence for the rest of the game, however, goals still eluded them. There were great saves, near misses and one shot that for some inexplicable reason, which remains a mystery, did not go in, much to the frustration of Dugongs and the relief of Wraith. As the final seconds wound down, Wraith kept up the defence and Dugongs made some desperate, but unsuccessful attempts to score, with sprinting and sliding, diving and �swimming� on the ice. When the siren sounded the final score was 1-0 to Wraith. It was a great game, and a great effort by all players on both sides.

Knights Who Say Broomball vs. Journeymen by Darren Pearce
The final match of the night saw the current top two teams meeting to decide who should be on top. Good defensive work from both teams kept the score tight, with the Knights only goal coming late in the first half. After dancing around defenders Bree and Tim, Josh Burton fired off a shot that landed in the back of a journeymen net. Down by a point coming into the second half, the Journeymen rallied and evened out the score. It started from a pass by Bree Beadman to Luke Monahan, who stormed the knights stronghold. To finish things off he passed the ball to a waiting Anna Karamanos, who directed the ball into the goal. The remaining match was fiercely competitive, with both teams eager to avoid overtime. Things started to get heated, and one player learned (at least I hope he has) that sometimes it's better to keep your mouth shut. Despite various setbacks the Journeymen held the knights out for the remainder of the game and forced the match into overtime. The knights attacked hard, and most of the OT was spent interrupting shots at goal. The journeymen's attempts were similarly thwarted, and the score remained 1-1. In the end it was a great game, and I'm eagerly awaiting the rematch =)

04-APR-2011
A Division - Week 9 - Short Ice II
Short ICe Week 2 - Rise of the Raven
Parramatta Raptors vs. Werrington County Sonics by
Short Ice action returned to the Penrith Ice Palace (Yay....). Sonics up against Raptors at the Canteen end of the rink. Raptor grabbed a quick two goal lead in the first half thanks to goals from Kerryn Lawler and Louis Sultana. 2-0 HT. Second half and a string of penalties against the Raptors gave the Sonics a sniff. The Raptors defence held on for the win. 2-0 Raptors.

Richmond Ravens vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Joanne Mitchell
Richmond Ravens took on equal top of the table Druids in the first game of a long night. Druids defector Saxon Hooper scored both goals for Ravens, with plenty of support from his team. Druids kept up the attack, but could only manage 1, despite intense pressure in the last quarter of the game. 2-1 Ravens.

Penrith City Rangers vs. Werrington County Sonics by Tim Brown
Sonics came out with a point to prove after a disappoint performance in the previous game. Having not lost many but not won any short-ice games things where getting a bit tense and short-ice broomball was unpopular. A much better start saw Sonics dominate the early exchanges in this game pressing Rangers and getting plenty of turnovers. Scrambling for possession in the corner saw Kerry Baxter win the ball back for Dyhana Scarano to fire a cross to Amran Sinha on the back post, Sonics 1 up. Sonic kept up the pressure and put another goal in when Tim Brown shot from wide after Rangers defence held off and allowed him to shoot, the shot finding the far corner of the net, Sonics 2-0 up. Rangers to their credit started to put the pressure back on Sonics getting a number of good chances toward the end but Sonics held on for their first short-ice win EVER!!

Glenmore Park Druids vs. Parramatta Raptors by Ryan Findlayson
The second contest this season between last season finalists. First went to Raptors in OT. This time it was short ice. Druids off to a quick start, getting a goal on the board in their first attacking effort. Some quick passes, and Damo nailing one through traffic. The middle period of this had a bit of controversy. Druids seemingly getting the favour of the whistle in any 50/50 calls. Raptors defended valiantly during the couple of short hand periods. So did not concede during these periods. Midway through the second half, Druids doubled their lead. Dom tapping in a deflection from the keeper. Druids could of grabbed a couple more at the end, but were unable to get a clean shot away from point blank range. So 2-0 to the Druids.

Richmond Ravens vs. Penrith City Rangers by Joanne Mitchell
This was a good game with plenty of attack from both teams. Ravens were unlucky to hit about 3 goalposts, and the game looked likely to end in a draw. A well placed ball from defence found Alana on the back post, who put a nice touch to the ball, only to be saved by Australian Men�s team keeper James Kristof. Aaron Dymond cleaned up the deflection to score the winning goal for Ravens.

04-APR-2011
B Division - Week 9 - Short Ice II
Short Ice Week 2
Tigers vs. Penguins by James Kristof
Tigers started this game strongly, putting a lot of pressure on the Penguins for most of the first half and getting a lot of good shots off on goal. Eventually Tigers took the lead through Zac Law who flicked the ball past the Penguins goalie to go up 1-0. Just before the end of the half Penguins hit back through Daniel Wong whose shot bounced up off the Tigers keeper into the top of the net, 1-1 at halftime. Penguins rallied in the second half, controlling the vast majority of the ball, but desperate Tigers defence kept them out the entire half, the game ending at 1-1.

Ice Devils vs. Titans by Russell Gregory
A rematch of the previous week , this promised to be a good Game. Titans still with selection headaches with 2 Players unavailable due to injury, one to work, and 2 playing Back to Back to Back To Back games, it was always going to be a big ask against a young, fast Devils Outfit. A very even and surprisingly controlled game for the first half was the story, the teams heading to the break 0-0. The halftime pep talk from Titans Super Coach / unnecessary assistant doorbitch (damn little boards) got the team going in the second half with quick fire goals to Greg Dezman, Reece Shepherd and Skye Blakeney. The Devils struck back with a single goal late in the half but Dave Deguryter sealed the win with a late laserbeam into the back of the net. With all Titans players scoring a point, the final score ended in a 4-1 win to the Titans.

Huskies vs. Druids B by Matt Hellyer
It took more than ten minutes in the first half for the goals to start coming in, but with DruidsB when it rains, it pours. Taking on Huskies in their first short ice game for the night, it all began pretty quietly. A sky high stick sent Huskies� Josh Coates for two and it went all downhill for them from there. Goal 1 came when a wide shot from Aaron Parker was deflected clean off the centre of Matt Hellyer�s stick straight into the back of the nets. Goal 2 came less than a minute later, with 3:46 left on the clock when Matt was given a chance to shoot again and flicked it in from the corner of the goals. Goal 3 came another few minutes later, this time from the stick of Nick Colyer after a Katie Colyer assist. No sooner had the euphoria died down again when Jo Hansen scored from a Damian Colyer assist with less than a minute on the clock to bring the score to 4-0 leading into half time. In the second half, Huskies had a brief moment of joy when Luke Simmonds opened up the scoring with a shot that slipped down the front of DruidsB keeper Kate Yabsley and popped between her legs. Huskies fought hard to regain control of the game, creating some opportunities at goal that were narrowly denied and holding back the DruidsB storm for another 12 minutes. With 2:35 remaining however, DruidsB again gained the upperhand, with a goal coming to Katie Colyer (an exciting first for her in B grade!) when she was given a shot from in front. Goal 6 went to Jo again, after an assist from Dom with 30 seconds left and barely had that goal registered when Damian scored on the back of a solo run to leave Huskies decimated at 7-1, a record score for DruidsB against any team.

Tigers vs. Titans by Russell Gregory
The Tigers entered this match looking to rebound from the last meeting of these two teams, which ended in an 8-0 drubbing being dished out. Titans without key playmakers Russell Gregory (ankle) and Bryn Shepherd (ankle), and utility player Chris Dezman (little girly boy who had to work). Controlled possession by the Titans seemed to pay off if it weren't for the Herculean efforts by the Tigers keeper Ben Irmisch. A knock to Titans player Jesse Blakeney's knee saw him take up residence in the goal circle to shake it off, due to the distinct lack of a Subs bench. There was some feeling between the teams soon into the second half with a Tigers Player making contact with the face cage of a Titans forward, resulting in a penalty and putting the Titans onto the power play. The power play was used wisely and the pressure inflicted was too great, with Dave Degruyter picking up another goal. This was the way the game ended, with the Titans rounding out a challenging night for the roster with two hard-fought wins.

DruidsB vs. Penguins by James Kristof
This match was a tale where absolutely nothing happened. Niether team really took control of the match, and both Penguins and Druids B were forced into long range shooting in trying to make something happen. Unfortunately though, nothing did happen, followed by more nothing and eventually nothing else happened, which was reflected on the scoreboard as the match ended a 0-0 stalemate.

DruidsB vs. Penguins by Matt Hellyer
From hero to zero. Coming off the back of their 7-1 victory over Huskies, DruidsB looked set for another big game against The Penguins in a rematch of last Thursday�s game. This time however, The Penguins were well prepared for the game with Daniel Wong available and a good subbing strategy in place. Try as they might, neither team succeeded in scoring the entire match. Although competition for ball possession was fierce, neither team were penalised for any infractions, making for a clean (albeit unexciting) match. It seemed that whenever DruidsB mounted an offense, The Penguins� keeper James Kristof would be there ready to shut it down. Certainly Kate Yabsley, keeper for DruidsB, was put under the pump as far as attempts went, but she succeeded in denying every shot from The Penguins.

Huskies vs. Ice Devils by Andrew Causby
A tough fought game by all but Ice Devils were to good in the end winning the game 1 Nil. With good screening from Josh, Causby was able to find the gap. Good game by all.

31-MAR-2011
B Division - Week 8
Thursday Night Druids
Druids vs. The Penguins by Matt Hellyer
DruidsB took on The Penguins tonight in what started out as a challenging rivalry and later descended into a DruidsB goal-fest. The Penguins began with a player disadvantage of seven against the DruidsB�s ten as well as being short veteran Daniel Wong. Despite this however they began strongly, with a goal coming in the first seven minutes of the game from a coordinated manoeuvre by Sara and Tim Roffey giving James Kristof the chance he needed to drive it home. Fierce competition for ball control kept DruidsB from scoring for about another seven minutes, until newly married Jo Hansen set up Aaron Parker who scored quickly and decisively. An obstruction call against Tim from The Penguins gave DruidsB the upper hand and Captain Damian Colyer used the opportunity to score from a solo run. Just before the game entered half time, DruidsB�s Nick Colyer was sent for two for bumping a helmet with his broom in an incident counted as dangerous stick. DruidsB entered the second half up 2-1 and within four minutes had another send off against them, this time for a clear case of tripping (albeit accidental) by Aaron Parker that led to Jimmy Kristof being taken down and out for the rest of the game. DruidsB implemented good defensive strategy whilst The Penguins had the player advantage and actually ended up scoring soon after when Dom made a break for goals, supported by Matt, and popped the ball (and himself) straight in, leaving him with a sore backside. With Jimmy out for the count the goals just kept coming against The Penguins, with Nick at the right place and time deflecting a long range shot from Damian straight into the back of the net without even knowing it. This was backed up by an inside pass from Joel Robson giving Matt a solo run against the keeper from half way bringing the score up to 5-1. The final ten minutes of the game saw some valiant and close attempts at goals from The Penguins but all were unsuccessful leaving DruidsB victorious.

31-MAR-2011
C Division - Week 8
Wins for Knights and Journeymen
Knights Who Say Broomball vs. Rhinos by Josh 'I should have been in B grade ages ago' Burton
Tonight�s matchup showed the much improved Rhinos against the Knights. The action started quick for the Knights with another goal within the first 5 minutes by a distance shot (that got show curve) via Brett for 1-0 lead. Then the back-and-forth action began, with each team getting chances to capitalise, but to no avail. A couple of niggling bruises, most noticeably Kiera, with a whack to the foot, but played on. The second half started with an immediate goal at the faceoff, with the Rhinos trying to get the ball away from Brett, which resulted in Josh taking advantage to give a 2 goal advantage to the Knights. The Rhinos kept attacking and Kiera kept defending using her feet first, but in the end, good goal defence prevented a deserved goal. A counter attack goal from Josh put the result out of touch with Knights winning 3-0. Good win for the Knights, getting the momentum on a high. We look forward to a tough clash with the Journeymen next week, while Rhinos have a bye, but face the Dugongs the next week.

Brass Monkeys vs. Journeymen by Tim Boyce
With both teams suffering somewhat sluggish starts to their season, this was an important game for both teams to try and get into gear. And it was Journeyman who started in the best possible way, with Darren Pearce somehow managing to break clear from the opening drop and convert within the first 20 seconds, leaving players from both sides having barely moved from their starting positions. This seemed to stun the Brass Monkeys, and the Journeyman went on a scoring blitz, with Timothy Boyce scoring a hat-trick of goals in quick succession, set up from some solid passing and great running, and leaving Monkeys down 4-0 only 10 minutes into the first half. Monkeys were able to regroup and regain some control of the latter part of the half, keeping some much needed possession, and pulling back the Journeyman's momentum to keep them from scoring again. Monkeys came back hard in the second half, denying Journeyman the space they had early in the game, and putting pressure on the passing that had set up the first few goals. They clawed a goal back though a length of the rink solo effort, beating 4 or 5 players on the run and slotting in past the keeper to make it 4-1. But Journeyman were quick to ensure that there was going to be no Monkeys comeback, with James Karamanos setting up Timothy Boyce in front of goals for his 4th for the night, and then Timothy Boyce returning the favor, setting up James Karamanos in a 2 man breakaway. The final scoreline of 6-1 will be a welcome boost for the Journeyman who had been struggling to be convincing in any of their earlier matches. Brass Monkeys were on top at times during the game, but will rue conceding the 4 early goals which made a comeback very difficult from very early in the match.

28-MAR-2011
A Division - Week 8
Ravens Back After Jo and Dane's Wedding
Richmond Ravens vs. Werrington County Sonics by Tim Brown
Sonics looking for some revenge after defeat at the hands of Raven's last time they played in the short ice competition. Raven's had two weeks off with byes so either they would be well rested or maybe a bit rusty. Sonics started the game one down, the website draw being a week behind showing Sonics with a 9pm game, an old trick but the good one. Chantel Brewer approaching the Sonics bench and offering to make up the numbers meant Sonics would only be short a player for the first 10 minutes. Ravens took the initial advantage when Andrew Chapman tried for an impossible pass over (or through in this case) Saxon Hooper who simply pulled the ball down then broke up the ice and slotted the ball home with a low shot on the near post. He did have to skillfully evade Chapman trying to make amends but all in all a good opportunistic goal - Ravens ahead 1-0 - a lead they held through to half time. Sonics had a familiar feeling from the last time they played Ravens. A disorganised start with players arriving late only this time they weren't 3-0 down at half time. Ravens will have been concerned as last time Sonics did manage to claw back two goals in the second period. Sonics did up the pressure with a few chances well defended by Ravens getting numbers back. The resistance eventually broken with Andrew Chapman pickup up the ball wide on the right, crossing inside for Jason Wheeler to shoot, the ball blocked but, Amran Sinha on hand at the back post to poke the ball home - all square at the Penrith Ice Palace. Both teams had good opportunities until fulltime but no more goals. Into overtime, Sonics winning the ball after the Ravens had the first attack, a pass out to Andrew Chapman his pass then forward to Chantel Brewer on the blue line, Chantel, trapped, control, Ravens defence closing in, an inside ball back to Andrew Chapman running through had the Ravens defender lunging but failed to intercept, Chapman taking the ball now with a clear run into the attacking half, over the redline, Ravens defence recovering, defenders running back, Chapman with now passes ops for a flip, the ball lobs high over a Ravens player closing into to tackle but out of reach, the last defender seeing the ball going high but dropping, they reach for it, but it just makes it over, bounces, and IN!!! Andrew Chapman with a spectacular winner from Chantel Brewers assist.

Parramatta Raptors vs. Penrith City Rangers by Louis Sultana
Raptors up against Rangers in the second A-Grade game of the evening. Raptors dominated posession but it was the Rangers scoring first, a rebound off the back wall and a simple tap in by Dave Degruter. Soon after, some aggressive forechecking and clever passing enabled the Raptors to square it up through Brett Ackling. 1-1 Half Time. Raptors again looked promising in the second half and were very unlucky not to score early. It was not until about 10 minutes remaining that Dani Mitrevski scored after some great lead up work by Marc Kuipers. Raptors held despite playing the last 2 minutes with one 4 players after a late penalty. Raptors 2-1

28-MAR-2011
B Division - Week 8
3-0 in Both B Games
The Penguins vs. Tigers by James Kristof
The game started slowly as niether the Penguins or the Tigers got many shots on target, the Tigers seemed content with long-range efforts whilst Penguins struggled to work the ball in close to the goal when attacking. It was Lis Viney for Penguins that eventually broke the deadlock, scoring her first ever goal for Penguins, flicking the ball into the roof of the goal after a scramble with the Tigers keeper. Almost immediately after Penguins doubled their lead after Sarah Cook passed to Lis Viney, who then centred the ball to an unmarked Sara Roffey who swept the ball in from close range. 2-0 at half time. The second half again started slowly as both teams seemed to tire, however the game was put beyond doubt when Sara Roffey scored her second after making a run across the ice and hammering home a low shot across the goal into the bottom corner. The game finishing 3-0 to Penguins.

Ice Devils vs. Titans by Brett Ackling
Last game of the night was the Devils V's Titans with many of the players backing up from A grade earlier in the night. Think it was nil all at the half. First points went to the Devils with Josh finding the back on the net. This was followed later with Buckley scoring of a Brett pass. Last goal went to Kuipers with a nice rebound of the keeper from an attempt by Brett. 3-nil final score.

24-MAR-2011
C Division - Week 7
A Win for Wraith
Dugongs vs. Journeymen by Darren Pearce
Due to any almost comical series of events the Journeymen found themselves playing without half their team. A situation made worse when their last player arrived just as the game started, forcing the Journeymen to play short for the first 5min. But despite this setback the Journeymen were determined to hang on, and were able to keep the score nil all until the end of the first half. Along came the second half, and a tiring Journeymen were constantly being denied shots up near the nets, with dugong defenders falling back onto the attackers. That is until Timothy Boyce took things into his own hands, and fired a shot out from the blue line that sailed into the goals. With the score now 1-0, the Journeymen focused on keeping that lead. The dugongs didn't make this easy though, as they like break through the Journeymen's line in twos and threes in spirited charges, forcing the now struggling defenders to dig deep and interrupt those attacks. But dig deep they did, and were able to keep the lead for the rest of the game.

Brass Monkeys vs. Wraith by Sarah Hellyer
Brass Monkeys kicked off the game well, dominating possession for some time while Wraith struggled to fend them off. Most of the game was back and forth with neither team able to convert their shots to points on the board. A few sends offs kept the game interesting, as well as one of the Wraith sticks falling apart and going into the goal unbeknownst to the player. Early in the second half, Matt Hellyer from Wraith ran the ball straight from a drop and scored, with Brass Monkey supporters calling from the sidelines that he should be sent off for being �too fast�. The score remained the same for the rest of the game, leaving the result 1-0. A good fun game � well done to everyone.

Atomix vs. Knights Who Say Broomball by Josh Burton
The last match of the night shows the matchup of the Knights against the ATOmix. The ledger in this matchup has not favoured ATOmix, but every season looks like a breakout season for one of the other teams for C Grade, such as ATOmix to join the big three in the division. The match showed d�j� vu for the second week, as Knights lit up early and often with goals to Josh and Brett in the first 5 minutes, which ATOmix pegged back, but do not recover enough. Another goal to Kieran brought the score to 4-0 before half time, with ATOmix taking advantage of some ordinary and woeful defence to gain 2 goals back to make it 4-2 at half time. But the second half repeated the first, as goals to Josh and Kieran gave the scoreboard some much valued work as full time was 7-2 in favour of the Knights. A good win with enthusiasm from start to finish. ATOmix have a bye, but look forward to prove themselves against the defending champs, while the Knights matchup against the Rhinos next round.

20-MAR-2011
Mens Division - Week 9 - Grand Final
River Rats win a Thriller
River Rats have won the first ever full mens competition defeating Terminators 3-2 in a thrilling final. Rats started on fire slamming home 3 goals against a shell shocked Terminators. Terminators eventually found their mojo answering with two goals with still 7 minutes on the clock. A hectic last few minutes saw Rats hold off the fast finishing Terminators to take out the initial Mens Sunday night competition. The bronze medal game was a toughly fought out 0-0 draw. So who gets the bronze ? Grizzlies finished 3rd in the regular season, but lost the elimination final to Warriors. Therefor as the decider was a draw we have to go with Bronze being shared between Warriors and Grizzlies. Grats to all involved, Rats for winning, Terminators as finalists and all the other teams for an even competition. Hopefully next season will be bigger and better.

21-MAR-2011
A Division - Week 7
Round 2
Penrith City Rangers vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Ryan Findlayson
The two teams, having met last week with Druids getting the win right on the buzzer, saw Rangers looking to get revenge for the heartbreak. Rangers getting Liam back this week ensured it would be a fast paced game. Druids employing their forecheck dominated the possession for most of the first half. Druids eventually getting on the board with Dom Colyer centering the ball to Shannon Jorda. Shannon first timing it to the top of the net for his first A grade goal since his 4 1/2 year hiatus (which his brother missed as he popped out to buy some food!). Druids thought they had a second goal when Damo hammered one from the blue line in to the net, only to be disallowed due to a keeper taken out by his own teammate and the refs not stopping play until after the goal was scored. 1-0 half time. Second half was just as quick. With 5 mins to go in the half, Druids thought they were going to cruise to another victory, however some laziness from Druids in transition from attack to defense saw Bryan Macklin score - Rangers only shot on target for the entire game. 1-1 full time despite some late attacking pressure by Druids on the Rangers goal. OT saw tight marking from both teams, which left only half chances. Damo Colyer took one of these half chances, backhanding a shot around one defender and between stick and body of another defender to give Druids the OT win.

Parramatta Ravens vs. Werrington County Sonics by Tim Brown
After going down 2 goals to nil last week against Raptors, Sonics were desperate not to give them 2 games to nil over two weeks. The first half was very even both teams fighting hard for the ball resulting in 5 visits to penalty bench. The first goal came 8 minutes into the second half Arman Sinha, after much encouragement from the bench, lobbed a ball past the defence for an unmarked Kerry Baxter on the far post. Baxter reacted quickly just quick enough to volley the ball down through a charged goal keepers legs to give Sonics the lead. As time ran out Raptors press hard to get an equaliser, they pulled the keeper from the ice to get a man advantage, but a turnover enable Sonics to take a speculative shot at the empty net which was batted away by the defence but only to be smashed home by Jason Wheeler charging onto the loose ball. Sonics getting points this time from last seasons champions.

27-MAR-2011
Mens Division - Week 9 - Grand Final
River Rats win a Thriller
River Rats have won the first ever full mens competition defeating Terminators 3-2 in a thrilling final. Rats started on fire slamming home 3 goals against a shell shocked Terminators. Terminators eventually found their mojo answering with two goals with still 7 minutes on the clock. A hectic last few minutes saw Rats hold off the fast finishing Terminators to take out the initial Mens Sunday night competition. The bronze medal game was a toughly fought out 0-0 draw. So who gets the bronze ? Grizzlies finished 3rd in the regular season, but lost the elimination final to Warriors. Therefor as the decider was a draw we have to go with Bronze being shared between Warriors and Grizzlies. Grats to all involved, Rats for winning, Terminators as finalists and all the other teams for an even competition. Hopefully next season will be bigger and better.

20-MAR-2011
Mens Division - Week 8 - Preliminary Final
Terminators Through
1-1 all at halftime, Terminators turned it on in the second half, blasting in 3 goals to defeat Warriors in the preliminary final by 4-1. Terminators go on to take on River Rats in the grand final next week. 17-MAR-2011
C Division - Week 6
The Joelinator Strikes Back
Dugongs vs. Brass Monkeys by Scott Powell
After the top of the table clash concluded it was the turn of the Dugogns and last weeks faux Dugongs, the Brass Monkeys to face one another. The Dugong back to a healthier looking team, missing only Mik, whose studies take precedence over Broomball, while the Monkeys had to mange with no subs for the entire match, needing Steph to back up for her second match of the night. The game started with both sides trying to secure the first goal, attack the name of the game, the Monkeys countering a Dugong break with one of their own to open the scoring after 6 minutes. Monkeys having a few more chances, catching the Dugongs off guard, but not converting before Nathan on his return to the game from a week off, and motivated by his Central Coast Mariners heavy defeat on the weekend, as well as being three goals in Joels deficit, opened his season's account, knocking the ball in from a pinpoint accurate Ron pass, 1-1 with 11 minutes gone. More to-ing and fro-ing from both sides, the Dugongs fresh legs helping in the dying minutes, with Ron giving Nathan another fine pass, before finding the back of the net for a 2-1 Dugong lead at halftime. The second half was all Dugongs, the Monkeys struggling to get the ball over the advantage line, brilliant keeping keeping them in the match. A series of shots and centred passes deflected harmlessly away before Mark plucked a ball from the sky to his stick, before it was heeled into goals by the keeper, 3-1 to the Dugongs and 10 minutes to play. Again tired Monkey legs were showing, Nathan taking the ball from the defensive blue line, getting to the wall on the attacking blue line, fought tooth and nail with a Monkeys player, edged it past him before racing to the goals and bashing the ball into the net, 4-1 to the Dugongs with less than 5 minutes remaining. The Monkeys surged from the play the ball, really focused on retaining position in their attacking half, and did so, savaging the Dugong defence, before a thundering shot from a tight angle saw the Monkeys back to 4-2, and with the momentum in the final two minutes, however the Dugongs defence stood firm to finish the game 4-2, thanks to the Monkeys for a great game, the dying minutes were incredibly tense.

Iceatopes vs. Knights Who Say Broomball by Josh Burton
Tonight�s first match showed the grand final rematch from last year, being the Knights and the Iceatopes. Knights, looking for revenge and Iceatopes, who I hope are enjoying being the �hunted� instead of the �hunters�. Knights started very aggressively with 2 quick goals,one from Brett instead 90 seconds and Martin, within 5 goals. Iceatopes, a bit slow to react, scored late in the first half, to be 2-1 down at half time. Knights, started the second as they did the first, with another goal, off the stick of Kieran for 3-1. A defensive mishap caused an own goal to get Iceatopes to 3-2, which it stayed at full time. Part Revenge for the Iceatopes, a step forward, as we didn�t beat Iceatopes last season, we get a win at their expense early.

Atomix vs. Journeymen by Tim Boyce
It was a game where momentum changed several times when Jouneryman and ATOmix went head to head in the last game of the night. ATOmix got the early jump on Journeyman, and controlled the ball for much of the opening stages of the game. Their pressure was rewarded with the first goal of the night, with some quick passing in close to goal finished off nicely with a flick shot that was too good for the Journeyman keeper. Journeyman start to arrest that momentum however, and the latter part of the half was mostly even, with a late runaway chance converted by James Karamanos to bring the scores level at half time. ATOmix again came out strong in the second half, and similar to their first half goal, some great in close passing resulted in another goal to once again take the lead. As in the first half however, Journeyman gained control once again, and had a number of shots on goal, but was only able to convert one of them through a nice sliding shot from Darren Pearce. Journeyman had the better of overtime, with a number of shots just wide of the target, but ATOmix defended well and denied the Journeyman from taking out the points, while making some countering runs themselves. Neither team was able to score however, and the game finished 2-2 with point shared.

Atomix vs. Journeymen, Limmerick by Dave Porter
Being St Patrick's Day, the clash tonight between the Atomix and Journeymen could only ever be recorded as a limmerick;
The first half had goals to each side,
With chances shut down or sprayed wide.
The end saw a draw,
With two - all the score.
That OT just could not divide.

Thanks Journeymen and refs for a hard fought cliffhanger.

14-MAR-2011
A Division - Week 6
Druids with a Buzzer Beater
Penrith City Rangers vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Ryan Findlayson
A bit of controversy early with the Druids keeper getting a stick to a possible high ball . Rangers calling for the penalty, but were denied by the refs. However it was a short time after that Rangers got the man advantage, with Dom Colyer getting penalised. Druids held good formation during the short hand period. Druids then got their opportunity in attack, but good keeping and scrambling by the Rangers held them out, and the half finished 0-0. Similar story in the second half, but this time it was Damo Colyer who copped the penalty for the Druids. Again, the Druids were up to the challenge. Druids put a lot of pressure on the Rangers keeper, several times forcing scrambling saves with several Druids ready to pounce on any spills. Druids made a final attempt to break the deadlock when they worked hard for an intercept with 50 seconds to go. They pressed extremely hard to get the late goal, and it was with 1 second to go it came when Allie Hewett scrambled, and squeezed the ball under the keeper. Heart breaking for the Rangers, but a very satisfying win for the Druids. 1-0.

Parramatta Ravens vs. Werrington County Sonics by Louis Sultana
The return to long ice broomball saw the return of some crucial players to the Raptors lineup. This game was end to end fast broomball, both teams using quick counter attacks to create their scoring opportunities. About 2 minutes from the end of the first half, Raptors Daniel Wong used his "Datsyuk" like deking skills to open the scoring after some quick passing from Kerryn Lawler and Louis Sultana. 1-0 HT. The second half was similiar to the first half with both teams unlucky not to score on a number of occasions. With nine minutes remaining, Louis Sultana on a breakway scored with a 'left hand thingy' to increase the lead. Raptors holding on for the win. Raptors 2-0.

14-MAR-2011
B Division - Week 6
Druids B Scrape By Penguins
The Penguins vs. Glenmore Park DruidsB by Matt Hellyer
DruidsB took on The Penguins tonight in an all out war for possession with both teams fighting hard to gain the upper hand. Early on in the game Sarah Hellyer, who had only come to observe at the last minute, was recruited to play to give DruidsB a female subbing option. The first half saw the ball rapidly driven from one end to the other and back again, with a solo run from Damo unsuccessful as with numerous attempts from The Penguins. An unintended injury occurred when Lis Viney was brought down in a blistering race to the DruidsB goals involving both teams. The second half was if anything more ferocious, with neither team willing to relent and instead able to maintain pressure. A goal came within three minutes when a pass by Dom gave Aaron the chance he needed to pound the ball at The Penguin�s keeper. Shot from about the blue line, the ball sped clean and straight ramming into the back of the net with such power it�s a wonder it didn�t punch through the other side. The game was far from over however. Over the ensuing minutes both teams came close to scoring prevented only by some brilliant keeping skills which were on display. The intensity rose even higher in the final moments, with The Penguins taking five or six shots in a row with DruidsB barely able to scramble a response. Only when the siren sounded did the pressure finally drop. Thanks to The Penguins for a gruelling but clean game. 1-0 to DruidsB.

Huskies vs. Titans by Russell Gregory
For the Thirds time in 2 weeks, these two teams faced Off. The early goal, on the Back of a superb attacking performance, went to the Titans Captain Russell Gregory after deflecting a Skye Blakeney shot, before heading to the break 1-0 up. Gregory went down for the count with an ankle injury late in the first half, forcing the Titans to regroup with no male subs. Two more goals, one to Dave De Gruyter and one to Chris Dezman saw the Titans stretch the lead to 3-0, with the Huskies clawing a goal back in the dying stages to end with a score line of 3-1. Great Defensive effort and controlling attacking game, particularly from the Titans Girls Kathy, Nissa and Skye being the difference.

10-MAR-2011
C Division - Week 5
Anyone Know the Joelinator ?
Dugongs vs. Atomix by Scott Powell
Second match of the night saw the water dwelling mammalians face off against the governmentally funded Atomix, wearing their traditional black and red jerseys for a change. The Dugongs knew they would be in for a tough game, with their bench down to a single lowly substitute, and the two teams have a fairly regular habit of winning alternate games against each other. From the drop the Dugongs decided to run it and gun it while their legs were fresh, having multiple forays deep into Atomix territory, with the Atomix feeling much the same way making just as many runs in the opening stanza. With a third of the first half over, the newly renamed Elicia Symes made a nice intercept, running down the ice and giving a gift of a pass to new husband (and poor soul) Aaron who made no mistakes (because he would have never heard the end of it), slotting it past the keeper, 1-0 to the Dugongs. The Atomix went on a spree straight after the goal, dominating possession and causing more than one defensive lapse by the Dugongs, unlucky to have a goal disallowed as it came off the...foot? hand? Who knows? No-one was sure what it came off, and the officials decided it was a no goal. The game even and tight 1-0 to the Dugongs at halftime. More of the same for the second half, both teams having half chances, but nothing spectacular, but the Dugongs were tiring fast, used as we are to having 4 or more bench players, the Atomic gaining more and more possession, until the Joelinator intercepted a centring pass, ran the length of the ice and bashed the ball into the back of the net to make the game 2-0 to the Dugongs. Being 2-0 only seemed to spur the 'Mix to shift up a gear, the last 6 minutes of the game saw them playing all over the weary Dugongs, resulting in a lovely long range missile goal to the Atomix, 2-1 the score. This made the final 2 minutes very interesting, with the Dugongs scrambling defence just holding out the fast finishing Atomix to hold onto a 2-1 lead, thanks to the Atomix for yet another close encounter.

Wraith vs. Knights Who Say Broomball by Joshua Burton
Tonight�s match pitted the Knights against the Wraith. The Knights, coming off the first loss of the season, were looking for some momentum. Possession favoured the Knights for most of the match, with Wraith deciding to work off the counter attack. Goals went to Bec, Kiera, Brett and Josh, as the Knights girls took advantage of the attacking overlap and free space to get goals. Full Time 4-0 Knights.

Rhinos vs. Brass Monkeys by Matt McCabe
In what was always going to be a close game, the Rhinos faced up against the Brass Monkeys coming off a tough loss to the Iceatopes last week. With only five players on the field, the Monkeys had trouble holding off an immediate Rhinos attack, capitalised early by Sara from a good setup by Bec, making the score 1-0 only 30 seconds into the match. Possession remained fairly consistently with the Rhinos throughout the first half with one or two breaks by the Monkeys held off with some great defense. No side was able to convert any attempts, however, until a Monkeys player made a break through Rhinos lines and let off a shot that looked to be missing my several metres. As I dismally stuck out my stick to stop the ball, it managed to hit the tip and spin slowly towards the goal, dribbling over the line and into the Rhinos goal with two minutes to go in the first half. 1-1 at half time. With the start of the second half, desperate to regain the lead, the Rhinos charged into attack once again. Possession again remained consistently with the Rhinos, however none of the many thousands of attempts were able to find the back of the net thanks to a combination of good defense, good goalkeeping and flat inaccuracy. This brought the score to 1-1 at full time in into extra time. Again, the Rhinos failed to convert any attempts on goal until the final 10 seconds of overtime, when Jeff thankfully slotted an accurate shot passed the Monkeys player attempting to defend the goal from outside the box. Final score 2-1 to the Rhinos. Thanks to the Monkeys for a well-played, clean (and apparently extremely entertaining) game.

07-MAR-2011
A Division - Week 5 - Short Ice
Short ICe Week 1
Richmond Ravens vs. Werrington County Sonics by Saxon Hooper
Ravens needed a win, going 0-4 to start the season. Sonics on the other hand are 3-0 and winning games comfortably. Ravens though started the quicker going up 3-0 before half time. Sonics down on players finally added Jeff Ferrera to their roster and the tide turned. Putting on the next 2 goals making it 3-2 with plenty of time left. Ravens a bit nervously held on for the win. Hopefully a kick start to their season.

Penrith City Rangers vs. Parramatta Raptors by James Kristof
The first game of the night saw Rangers come up against last season's premiers Raptors, who were short of girls on the night and started with only 5 on the ice. This allowed Rangers to dominate early in the match, with Jo Moore, Lisa Price and Skye Blakeney often being great position unmarked on the post only to be denied by great keeping and a desperate scrambling Raptors defence. It wasn't until the second half that Rangers finally gained the upper hand, Jo Moore slotting home her first ever A grade goal to give Rangers a 1-0 lead, before Luke Simmonds sealed the match with a forehand flick shot, 2-0 to Rangers at full time.

Richmond Ravens vs. Parramatta Raptors by Louis Sulatna
The return of short ice...the Raptors dont like this format of the game as it doesnt suit their style of play. After suffering their first regular season loss since the Winter 2010 season (about 16 games ago) to the Rangers earlier in the night, the Raptors were looking to come out of this game with some points. Ravens were looking good after beating the previously undefeated Sonics earlier. Raptors scrambled when needed and had their own chances. Both teams failed to score meaning this game ended in 0-0 draw. First week of Short Ice Broomball over.

Penrith City Rangers vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Ryan Findlayson
The chaos of short ice reigned supreme in this game. Both teams not shy to take shots at any opportunity. Good keeping at both ends meant that the first half ended 0-0. More of the same in the second half. With a few minutes remaining, Druids broke the deadlock. Repeated shots and deflections, before Dom Colyer powered a back hand through. Druids confident with little time remaining. But Rangers were up to the challenge. Bryan Macklin left free at halfway (so really close) hammered his shot to the top corner. So a 1-1 all draw.

Penrith City Rangers vs. Glenmore Park Druids by James Kristof
Druids absolutely dominated this match from the outset, controlling most of the possession and almost all of the territory, constantly bombarding Rangers with shot after shot, with only brilliant goalkeeping preventing them from taking a lead before halftime. However, early in the second half Druids got the goal that they deserved with Dom Colyer hammering a shot into the top corner. Now with the lead, Druids seemed to take their foot off the pedal a bit, allowing Rangers to start getting some shots of their own off, with Bryan Macklin eventually equalising with a long-bomb from halfway to tie things up, the match ending at 1-1.

Werrington County Sonics vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Ryan Findlayson
This game had a delayed start because the TRAITOR who sought redemption with his former team, allocated himself as the Druids keeper. Not having played the game before, found himself with a lack of time to get ready??? Anyway, the game started with Sonics slightly more dominant. Some poor marking by the Druids meant that it was just luck that stopped Sonics from taking the early lead. Druids then started to string some passes together, and it was this that lead to the first goal. Quick passing by Bec Davis, to Linda Findlayson, then onto Ryan Findlayson who found himself past the last line of defense, and flicked the ball over the keepers shoulder. The lead didn't last long, Druids turning the ball over in their own defensive zone, then lunging hard to try and win it back. This failed and Tim Brown was in the clear, and cleverly flicked the ball into the TRAITOR so as to get the rebound and tap the ball into the open net. Again Druids found the ability to string passes together, Linda and Bec again working the ball through the middle to find Zac Law, who drew the ball wide and then found the inside of the far post with the shot. Druids 2-1 at the break. A few more chances were created by the Druids in the second half, but good keeping kept them out. Sonics had an opportunity, when Dom Colyer was handed a 2 minute penalty. Good structure and pressure kept the Sonics out. Back at full strength, and the clock running short, Druids felt they had taken the game. But Sonics felt otherwise, and some how Amran Sinha found a way to get a shot through. The TRAITOR obliging, using the excuse that he didn't see it. So again the Druids giving up the lead for a draw.

07-MAR-2011
B Division - Week 5 - Short Ice
Short Ice Week 1
Huskies vs. Titans by Glen Butler-Fleming
After just managing to put together a team last Thursday with the help of C grade players. Huskies needed to win this short Ice game. Huskies had most of their players and needed them with Titans winning last time 2 - 0. It started fast with both teams making a lot of shots on goal but nothing came from these in the first half. In the second half Huskies put one into the back of the net thanks to Luke Simmons pass to Ryan Priestly who put the ball into the back of the net to win the match 1 - 0.

DruidsB vs. Ice Devils by No One
Ice Devils 1-0.. no write up.. -1 Duty point for Devils :(

Penguins vs. Ice Devils by James Kristof
Historically short ice games have not been kind to the Penguins team, and it looked as if that would continue when new recruit Bec Evans was forced off the ice early through injury. However, the Penguins team rallied as the A grade rule meant that Devils were forced to start playing a player short, allowing Penguins to control the pace of the game, with Sara Roffey BELTING home the opening goal. Penguins continued to control the pace of the game in the second half, eventually doubling their lead when Scott Powell found the back of the net with a low shot to the corner. 2-0 to Penguins at fulltime.

DruidsB vs. Tigers by Matt Hellyer
The second short ice game for DruidsB saw them facing off against a new-look Tigers, having recently acquired ex-DruidsB player Zac Law as a new A grader. With shorter ice came shorter time to react to passes requiring quick thinking and swift stick skills. New player this season Nick Colyer opened up the scoring with a shot from in front after a well coordinated set up by Aaron Parker and Jo Mitchell. A couple of minutes later it was DruidsB again on the board, this time with a deflection from Cameron Thomas bypassing the keeper from a Damian Colyer pass. Tigers mounted a number of assaults on the DruidsB goals but were successfully shutdown each time by solid keeping and defensive play. With less than a third of the first half remaining, Cameron from DruidsB had a bit of a brain freeze, momentarily switching from broomball to lacrosse, with a high stick that reached to the heavens and saw him sent for two. The second half saw no more goals scored by either team, though not for lack of trying, with Tigers (and particularly their keeper Kevin Chen) enduring an arduous barrage of shots from left, right and centre. Final score 2-0 to DruidsB. Thanks for the good game Tigers!

Tigers vs. Huskies by Glen ButlerFleming
The Huskies came into this game over confident with the earlier win against the Titans. Huskies controlled most the ball for most of the match but thanks to Kevin Chen and his on fire keeping skills the first half score was only 1 - 0. Then in the second half Huskies let their guard down and through some sloppy defense combined with good skills from the Tigers they equalized the match ending the game in a 1 - 1 draw. If it wasn't for Kevin Chen's keeping skills the Tigers would have been defeated. Good work Tigers.

Penguins vs. Titans by James Kristof
Titans started the stronger of the two teams and looked most likely to open their scoring account early, only to be denied by great goalkeeping from Scott Powell and Shannan Heinitz. Somewhat against the run of play, it was Penguins who scored first, again through goal-scoring virtuoso Sara Roffey, whose shot bounced off the far post, into the keeper's back and then into the back of the goal. 1-0 Penguins at halftime. Titans seemed to tire in the second half, allowing Shannan Heinitz to slot home a second goal for Penguins, however this sparked the Titans into gear and they tried desperately to fight back, however left their run too late when they scored through Jesse Blakeney with only seconds left on the clock. 2-1 to Penguins at fulltime.

06-MAR-2011
Mens Division - Week 7 - Finals
Grizzlies Gone, Rats Through
Warriors scrapped home a 1-0 win vs Grizzlies with a goal to Mark Balaam to win the Elimination Final and move into the preliminary final next week. In a very tight qualifying final, River Rats and Terminators fought out a 1-1 draw. However because of Rats finishing in 1st place they go through to the grand final (Ice time didnt allow any OT). So next week we have a womens game followed by the preliminary final where Terminators take on Warriors to determine the grand final opponent of RiverRats.
18:15 Womens Orange vs Womens Blue (Curtain Raiser)
19:00 Terminators vs Warriors (Preliminary Final)
Note: Early Start Times Again

03-MAR-2011
B Division - Week 3 Thursday
Huskies Still Struggling!
Huskies vs. Titans by Russell gregory
Huskies off the back of a few hard weeks, including a forfeit, were looking shaky with only a few minutes left to go before the drop. A distinct lack of team was saved only by roping in a few C-grade players to fill the void. The Titans with their own problems as far as the roster was concerned with injury and work claiming 3 of their regular players. The game was a slow one to start, with both teams trying to conserve their energy due to lack of a subs bench. Possession was the name of the game, and there was not too many scoring opportunities from either team. Titans were first to get on the board with a goal to Reece Shepherd, taking a Titans lead to the break 1-0. A similar storyline ensued in the second half, with the Titans showing a little more control to push the lead to 2-0 with 5 minutes remaining, courtesy of a Scorcher into the back of the net from Dave DeGruyter. That was where the scoreboard stayed for a satisfying if not spectacular win for the Titans. Special mention to Kathy Andrew for becoming the first female to play keeper for the Titans, and closing out the shutout. Great effort all round for those that played (Jesse, Nissa Skye & Cap'n Rusty not already mentioned) for picking up the slack from those that didn't make it to the rink. Well played by the undermanned Huskies given their player situation as well.

03-MAR-2011
C Division - Week 4
The Rise of the Joelinator !
Iceatopes vs. Rhinos by Mitchell Burrett
Alrighty, time for another installment of "Commentary from the....playing field??" Yes, with hockey superkeeper Phil Taggart clocking up some goal time on the ice, I took to the field..to be the comic relief for the night. The Iceatopes went into the game with dwindling numbers, losing three players suspiciously after the issue of game fees was raised. But as always, it was but a minor setback. The competition for the night was the Rhinos, who become more formidable as a team each time they take to the ice. Leading their charge (pardon the pun) was the Ferrara trinity, who were met by the Tope trio of Justin, Grant and Steph. The game followed the typical broomball style of passing, shooting, slipping (whoops) and running, lots of running. Keepers Phil and Matt both performed superbly, diving on many a shot, ensuring the scoreboard stayed at nil-all for a good portion of the first half. As the timer counted down to the end of the first 20, Grant and Justin were able to sneak a shot around the Rhino's keeper, putting the Iceatopes up going into the break. With both teams eager to pull out a win, the action only intensified in the second half. After a dashing run down the ice, Jeff Ferrara snaked a shot past Phil to level the score. With the threat of overtime looming (and the even greater threat of Saxon shaking us by our ankles to get the cash for the extra icetime), both teams turned it up a notch, giving it their all to get the W. When the dust had settled...it was still a tie and overtime was upon us. But in less time than it takes me to type this sentence, Steph made a breakaway down the ice, slotting the ball into the nets, securing the win for the Iceatopes. Thanks to the Rhinos for yet another competitive match, we look forward to the rematch in the near future.

Dugongs vs. Knights Who Say Broomball by Scott Powell
After a first up loss to the previous season winners, the Dugongs were to face off aginst the Knights, the team that knocked them out in the semi's the last time they met after a two week hiatus, whereupon two Dugongs players decided to get hitched and go on a nice holiday (slackers) Elicia Powell no longer, making her first on ice appearance as Mrs Symes. Dugongs sorely missed their Ninja Red keeper in their first game, and judging by tonight's game, will continue to miss her all season, may she return from the baking centre of Australia soon! Knights fielding a strong and quick team, for once having more subs than the Dugongs, took the game by the neck early, running through the centre of the ice, but unable to capitalise due to inaccurate shooting, rather than any decent goalkeeping. The dugongs playing a more traditional "c" grade game, hold on to the ball, and get some good, and some lucky passes off to maintain posession, and then hound the opposition to try and tie them down in their defensive area, once we'd missed a shit or hit a stray pass. But it was a tactic doomed to failure due to the counter-attacking speed of the Knights. The game continued in this manner until Joel (aka the Joelinator) got the ball near the defensive icing line and decided to not only traverse the length, but also the breadth of the ice, circumventing half of the Knights team before driving a shot into the back of the net with 5 minutes remaining. This seemed to buoy the Dugongs, who really took it to the Knights, but the match remained tight, 1-0 at halftime. The second half saw more of the same, the Dugongs holding the ball for periods of time, before the Knights countered with fast breaks, and for quite a while the Dugongs defence held their ground, before a nice series of passes near halfway saw Keiran on a burst to goals, finishing with a deftly lifted ball to even the scores 1-1. Again the game resumed its to and froing, each team tiring as the half went on, before some great attacking movements from Mark and Chris saw the ball pop out to the Joelinator who crossed a ball into the posts, and saw an own goal deflection give him his second for the night, Dugongs 2-1. Now the Knights adapted their tactics, and started holding the ball after making a fast break, nearly seeing them score on numerous occasions, again inaccurate shooting and fantastic defence from the back line saving the Dugongs, the final minutes belonging to the Knights, who just couldn't find the back of the net. 2-1 to the Dugongs, a nice present for Chris on his 45th birthday and a nice welcome to Broomball for Mrs Symes. Thanks to the Knights for another hard fought and well played game, next time it'll be the Knights looking for revenge

Atomix vs. Emu Plains Wraith by Dave Porter
The Atomix packed in the Weetbix prior to facing the Wraith, in the black jersey derby. Good thing too, as the first half had plenty of running. The Atomix possession advantage was upset by a couple of fast Wraith breaks which nicely converted saw a 2- blot scoreline at half-time. Second half was carbon copy of the first, with more end to end action, and some clumsy challenges from both sides earning some bin action - the assembled crowd of 7 were either on their feet or stretching, as DP steered the Atomix thru a first goal off a deft EJ pass from behind the net and another from a drop ball at close quarters - nice when it goes to plan! 2-2 at the 2nd siren and into OT - a carry over penalty had Atomix start with 3 players for the first few seconds, with a further Wraith penalty giving the Atomix 4 on 3 with under 2min left. A dying last minute break by the Wraith looked like the winner until Steve shut it down in desperate defence. He backed it with a lob that beat everyone except the goals, rendering the final 2-2 draw a fitting tribute to a close match. Thanks to the Wraith and refs for a close, exciting contest!!

Atomix vs. Emu Plains Wraith by Matt Hellyer
Wraith played an exceptional game against ATOmix tonight taking a two goal lead in the first half, surviving an onslaught of aggressive play to come out even in the second half and then enduring a gruelling overtime to end with a draw. The first goal came when Captain Matt Hellyer broke through the defence for a solo run against the goal keeper flicking it up over the keeper�s stick at the last second to score. A couple of minutes later Wraith forward Sean Cowcher also netted one after being given a chance to shoot from right in front, sending the Wraith supporters on the sideline wild. Although ATOmix dominated possession for most of the half, better marking of players than usual and some quality goal keeping denied them any points. Their chance came when early in the second half Wraith defender James Irwin was sent off for interference. Capitalising on the player advantage, Dave Porter was able to score from in front assisted by Emma Young. Wraith play in the second half was riddled with fundamental mistakes, though any benefit that ATOmix could have gained was thrown away with four send offs, resulting from a combination of aggressive and accidental physicality. Wraith mistakes included dribbling the ball most of the way down to the wrong goals, a clear case of offside and just plain missing the ball after a pass, among others. ATOmix on the other hand got penalised for slashing, an obstructive fall and two cases of interference, though the last of these Steve Dardo was unfortunate not to avoid after nearly succeeding in holding Matt up by latching onto his leg as he slid under him. A second goal by Dave Porter evened the score to force the game into overtime. The final five minutes saw a number of desperate attempts to score, with a good opportunity for Wraith coming out of a solo run by Matt who unfortunately was restricted from scoring again and was not supported. It looked to be curtains for Wraith when Eric Walton was sent off for tripping with only a minute and a half on the clock leaving ATOmix with a 4-3 player advantage. With just a few seconds remaining Steve Dardo flicked the ball up high over the final defender and narrowly missed the unmanned goal leaving the score 2-2. Well done to both teams on the hard fought effort.

28-FEB-2011
A Division - Week 4
Sonics Team To Beat (even if they forget to do write ups)
Richmond Ravens vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Ryan Findlayson
In a late off season switch, Druids lost their former captain and team founder (now known as the TRAITOR) to Ravens, who had their captain out through injury for the season. This meant there was a lot of passion in the game, with the Druids not wanting to give the TRAITOR a win, and vice versa. The game started with the Druids slightly on top, creating some early attacking pressure, but this didn't last too long as the game quickly evened out. It was getting towards the end of the first half when Damian Colyer for Druids stole possession from the Ravens, who had set up their attack, and made the sprint and converted the shot. Druids did get a power play opportunity in the half, but great structure kept the Ravens at bay. Second half again was fairly even, but again it was the Druids who changed the score line. Glenn Butler-Fleming in attack, but stuck on the wall, ran the ball to the corner, cut round the back, and pushed the ball center where Allie Hewett beat the TRAITOR with the touch into the goals. With about 8 minutes left in the game, Ravens halved the deficit, Jo Mitchell working ultra hard to set the pick (repeatedly), before Andrew Causby took advantage and got the shot through. Great screening by the Ravens forwards meant it went through without the keeper moving to save it. This got the Ravens back into the game, and they really intensified the pressure, forcing a lot of turnovers. But the Druids were equally desperate in defense. Thus the score line ended at 2-1, causing this to be possibly the first time ever that someone other than the TRAITOR has done a Druids A write up.

Penrith City Rangers vs. Werrington County Sonics by Tim Brown (too late to save point)
In one of the fastest games this season Rangers took the lead after much up and back style of play with plenty of shots hammering in on the net, this one taking a nice deflection to beat the GK. In truth Rangers took a very well deserved lead piling heaps of pressure on Sonics who seemed shocked and confused for most of the first half. Sonics did start to recover and the game started to look more even, Sonics equalised - sorry didn't see it, to busy trying to remember how to breath after just subbing off - Dhyana Scarano getting the goal. Sonics didn't make it any easier on themselves giving Rangers a couple of power plays. The second one, my pleasure to watch from the penalty bench :(, goal-less only because of a top notch save from Kate Yabsley as the ball rocketed toward the top corner. Sonics then pulled out a gem winning possession in Ranger half, Andrew Chapman under pressure and with no good passes available putting the ball behind net, Jeff Ferrera reacting quickly to win the ball and pass to Kerry Baxter unmarked in front of the goal and slapping the ball under the desperate dive of the goalie. This turned out to be the winner, one goal each to the Kerry and Dee and some great saves from Kate winning the game for Sonics - Girl Power!

28-FEB-2011
B Division - Week 4
Druids and Ice Devils Dominant!
Ice Devils vs. The Penguins by Andrew Causby
Ice Devil's with back to back wins were looking good from the whistle. With Penguins key player James Kristoff out, Devils looked good from the start and it wasn't long before they were on the board. Goals were scored by Andrew Causby, Marc Kuipers, Josh Newll, and Brett Ackling (2). Penguins never stopped putting up a fight but couldn't stop the endless attack by Devils forwards. End Result was a 5 / 0 win to Devils.

DruidsB vs. Tigers by Matt Hellyer
DruidsB posted their strongest performance of the season (and most likely ever) in a 6-0 walloping of a disillusioned Tigers to continue their undefeated winning streak. From the outset Tigers were outnumbered by DruidsB 12-7. Three goals were scored in each half with the first going to Captain Damian Colyer assisted by Matt Hellyer about eight minutes in. This was backed up two minutes later when Jake Robson scored from a Dominic Colyer assist. Not to be outdone by his younger cousin, Joel Robson finished off the first half scoring again assisted by Dom to bring it to 3-0. Damian�s half time pep talk suggested DruidsB use their advantage to work on playing strategy and to really set up plays before executing them. The second half saw Cameron Thomas score a couple of minutes in as well as a bit of a role reversal, with the backs given a chance to score by going forward and forwards going back to defend. This led to a goal to Dom with an assist from Katie Colyer. Struggling under the weight of the onslaught and constant subbing of the opposition, Tigers fought hard to regain ball possession and were only stopped from scoring a number of times by the formidable skill of the DruidsB keeper, Kate Yabsley. To finish off the night Jake Robson scored again off a ball from Zac Law that dribbled along the line right to his stick to make his first double. All in all a clean, albeit one-sided, game.

27-FEB-2011
Mens Division - Week 6
Mens Comp Round Games Complete
So after 6 weeks of comp River Rats have emegerd on top of the heap however only 1 win clear of 4th placed Warriors. A very even comp with a lot of draws. (Has been fun). That means next weeks finals are as follows.
18:15 4th - Warriors vs 3rd - Grizzlies (Elimination Final)
19:00 2nd - Terminators vs 1st River Rats (Qualifying Final)
Note: Early Start Times

24-FEB-2011
B Division - Week 3 Thursday
Ice Devils over Tigers!
Ice Devils vs. Tigers by Andrew Causby
Tigers struggled from the whistle as they hit the ice down a player and when their 5th player, Darren Pearce turned up he had no jersey and received an instant 2 min penalty. Ice Devils took advantage with a quick goal by A grader Marc Kuipers. Soon after, with some good passes, Andrew Causby cut across the face of goals pulling the keeper and putting it back corner of the net. Tigers continued to pressure creating great chances through Steve Dardo and Craig Sadler but just couldn't find the back of the net. Going into the second half there was another instant 2 min penalty for Tigers for not wearing appropriate uniform. It wasn't long before Ice Devils broke through and found Bree all by her self on the post and with ease she fires the ball into the goal for her first goal for the season. Tigers continued pressing and as Devils tire, Dardo breaks away but again, just can't convert. With under two mins left Devils Josh Newell secures the win with a convincing goal sealing the game 4 Nil.

24-FEB-2011
C Division - Week 2
Topes Halt Journeymen Run
Iceatopes vs. Journeymen by Mitch Burrett
WOO Broomball, time for another edition of Commentary from the...sidelines? Yep, with an injury confining me to the bench, the Iceatopes lineup had a minor shakeup going into their match against the Journeymen. Topes players Josh and Sally, and Journeyman Darren started the game having already playing in the earlier B-Grade game, but to their credit, none of the players showed any major signs of fatigue. Tope regular Phil Taggart and new recruit Rebecca Pearsall were noticeably absent from the game (consider this your Naming and Shaming guys), whilst the Iceatopes welcomed new player Jess German to their ranks. The game started in typical broomball fashion: face-off, followed by some swinging at the ball, hitting of the ball and shuffling of the feet. Shortly after the customary hullaballo, Grant scored the first points for the night, with a wild one armed swing around an advancing keeper, putting the Iceatopes up 1-0. The Journeymen quickly bit back, putting the ball past Sally to level the score. With the scoreboard level going into halftime, both teams were reassessing their strategies to ensure they would come out on top. By virtue of me writing this, we all know how that ended but lets enjoy the journey anyway. It almost ended in disaster, with the Journeymen slipping a second ball past Sally, giving them the lead as the clock counted down. But, in the final stages of battle, the shining beacon of hope that is Josh Newell emerged, unleashing his halfway shot on goals, levelling the score with 30 seconds left on the clock, pushing both teams to OT to determine the victor. OT almost ended as soon as it began, with a great breakthrough by Grant. That however, was followed up by his misinterpretation of the term 'gentle hit' with a cert goal sailing over the top of the net. Not to worry, as the Topes recovered, and after fending off of some strong Journeymen defense, Sally picked her spot, earning her inaugural C-grade goal for the season and the Tope victory. Congrats to the Topes for a great victory, and thanks to the Journeymen for giving them a run for their money.

Rhinos vs. Emu Plains Wraith by Cat McDonald
The ice had finally dried for the last game of the night where a 6 man rhino side faced off against an army of wraith players. Rhinos took possession early and a constant attack on the goals paid off with Jarad in shiny new shoes distracting the keeper and passing off to Catherine who flicked the ball into an open net. As play resumed the wraith players picked up their pace and took more control but it wasn't long until Jeff smacked the ball into the back of the net, rhinos heading into half time with a 2-0 lead. The second half went much like the first with lots of attempts on goal and a disallowed goal along the way, one finally paid off with mark practicing his shots taking the final score to 3-0

21-FEB-2011
A Division - Week 3
Raven Keep the Wins Coming
Richmond Ravens vs. Parramatta Raptors by Louis Sultana
Ravens (0 Wins this season) v Raptors (2 Wins this season) in the first game of the night. Each team missing a few players but was a fast game with both teams having chances during the game. Ravens shooting accuracy was off and the Raptors couldn't make a pass all night. 0-0 FT and this game was heading for overtime. Ravens looked strong, moving the ball around the perimeter but couldnt get through the Raptors defence. With little time left, Ravens pushed hard until Dani Mitrevski made a diving intercept. The ball landed at Louis Sultana's feet. Louis on the breakaway with nothing but net in front of him pushed the ball effortlessly into the goal. 1-0 OT Raptors.

Glenmore Park Druids vs. Werrington County Sonics by Tim Brown
The first half saw an very even match with opportunities for both teams. Sonics Dhyana Scarno coming close on a breakaway as well as Jason Wheeler's on another saved and then from the rebound an open net missed by Tim Brown. Druids best chance a 3 on none breakaway after Tim Brown turned over the ball on halfway, but where denied expertly by Kate Yabsley in goals for Sonics. Sonics took the lead in the second half after a turnover behind the net picked up by Tim Brown who ran the ball in front, avoided the scrambling cover defense then hitting a speculative shot which snuck in low through a few sets of legs. Brown then returned the favour a couple of minutes later with a very poor pass out of defence smashed in by Domonic Colyer - Druids 1, Sonics 1. Sonics then extended the lead when Kerry Baxter put a ball through over the red line, Brown gave chase and pressured the Druids defence winning the ball and running across goal to flick the ball past the keeper. The final goal of the game again from Kerry Baxter putting the ball over the redline for Andrew Chapman who then passed inside to Jeff Ferrera who drew the last defender and laid the ball off to Brown to shoot into the top far corner. That's six goals in two games for Sonics a great start to the season.

21-FEB-2011
B Division - Week 3
Huskies Fail Again With Forfeit!
DruidsB vs. Titans by Matt Hellyer
Druids of the second order in the Glenmore Park region convened in unprecedented numbers for tonight�s weekly meet in the neighbouring county of Penrith. Twelve druids, including a good mix of men and women, emerged from the mist in the cool of the evening to arrive at the lake of ice, a regular meeting place for occasions such as these. As they drew nearer the ice they were overshadowed by the Blue Mountains which dominated the backdrop of the full moon lit sky. This was of course the appointed time to concoct the demise of the upstart rivals Titans in preparation for an epic showdown. Without warning the Druids deliberations were interrupted by a horde of their adversaries advancing on their position. With a cry of �hell yeah� the contest for supremacy began. The Titans opened the scoring within three minutes of the first round of the battle with a Kathy-Reece combo that left the Druids reeling and unable to comprehend what had hit them. Recovering from the assault a short period before, grand master Daminus drove home a lightning-fast ball of pure energy, originally conjured by Joleos. This was only the beginning of the onslaught with a follow up coming from Zacharinu empowered by Katiea. Not to be left behind Titan Dave led the charge with a solo run that succeeded in evening the score. Their joy was short lived however when Dominus and Nicholus scored again for Druids. Confusion reigned about half way through the second round when Titan Dave used overwhelming force against Nicholus dropping them both. Ultimately Dave was repelled from the ice giving the already leading Druids the upper hand. This however did not prove a barrier to the Titans who convincingly levelled the battlefield with a Reece-Russell power attack. Now, with the battle drawing to a close, the pressure had mounted significantly for both sides. It looked to be all over when a tripping incident saw Joannei driven from the ice a second time, but Zacharinu made the most of the uneven circumstances and, assisted by a potent potion from Aaronia, scored for the final time. No amount of effort on the part of the Titans could undo what had been done leaving the second order Druids to reign victorious 4-3. Good use of the superior numbers made all the difference in this otherwise very close encounter.

Huskies vs. Penguins
Huskies with a million players missing forfeiting 5-0 to The Penguins.

20-FEB-2011
Mens Division - Week 5
Mens Comp into Second Round
Grizzlies vs. Warriors
1-1 draw, great top corner goal to Reese Shepherd in the first half. Grizzlies looked safe to secure the 1-0 win until a good finish by Warrior Grant Bentley tied it up with 2 minutes to go. very impressive debut in goals by mystery friend of Josh Newell, think his name was Phil.

RiverRats vs. Terminators
Rats up 1-0, looked to be dominating posession when I left, but Terminators were looking dangerous on the counter.

17-FEB-2011
C Division - Week 2
C Grade off to a Flier !!
Rhinos vs. Atomix by Matt Mcabe
In a rematch of the D Grade Grand Final from last season, the Rhinos took on the ATOmix in a heated, but well fought contest. Both teams opened the first half with even possession, many chances on both sides narrowly missing and the swimming pool that was the ice contributing to many errors. The Rhinos were first to score, however, as Jeff made a break down the middle and slotted one just past the keeper with a well-aimed bullet. This was quickly answered by Steve Dardo, who managed to convert a good constant attack on the Rhinos goals. With only minutes to go in the first half, Mark slipped in an excellent pass from Cat to make it 2-1 at halftime. The beginning of the second half started much the same as the first, even possession on both sides, with strong attack being thwarted by both team�s defense at the last second. A few disallowed goals and narrow misses later, Mark scored a second goal off a cross from Jeff, before completing his hat trick with a lone effort down the left wing and an accurate shot from almost halfway with less than a minute on the clock. Identical result to last season�s grand final, 4-1 to the Rhinos. Many thanks to ATOmix for a characteristically clean, but tough contest.

Journeymen vs. Wraith by Timothy Boyce
With most of the Journeyman predisposed with work and holidays, after having their scheduled bye changed to a game during the week... the most players they could muster was a measly 4 guys. 2 ringers ensured there was a game (thanks gals!), but with a Wraith side at full strength, fresh legs were always going to be an issue for the Journeyman. Journeyman started strong however, and were impressive in the early minutes with some solid passing and strong teamwork. They controlled the ball for most of the first half, and were rewarded with 2 goals to James "The Bird" Karamanos with what would be later described as "Poultry in Motion". However the efforts of the first half took their toll on Journeyman, and Wraith slowly wrestled back control of the game in the second half with their superior speed and stamina against a tiring opposition. In fact the ball rarely got out of the defensive half of the Journeyman, and this pressure was converted with 9 mins to go when a scrambling mess of feet and sticks in front of goal saw the Wraith bring it back to 2-1. Desperate not to concede again (and to avoid having to play another 5mins in overtime!) Journeyman clung on to their 1 goal lead, but only barely with Wraith unlucky not to convert their opportunities in front of goal. Journeyman escape with a 2-1 win, and some very tired legs.

Iceatopes vs. Brass Monkeys by Jordie MartinWaterHouse
So it was the second games of the night and both teams were pumped for broomball. The monkeys with a full team this week were keen to come back from there loss last week but knew it would be a hard game against the winners of last years comp. While im sure the Iceatopes were pumped for an easier game tonight against the team that got last last season...... The game started fast and the monkeys actually kinda looked like they wanted to score for once and it was even better when we did putting us up one nil. The iceatopes surprised and disoriented realised they should probably phsych up a bit started playing a bit harder after this. There was many fast breaks good shots and saves for the rest of the first half as well as a lot of scrambling defence yet neither team scored afterward leaving the monkeys with a one nil lead. The second half started with the monkeys on the back foot this time letting the iceatopes get an early goal in making the score 1 all. This making the game even closer everyone stepped up their game monkeys wanting to make and amazing upset and iceatopes trying to stay away from a loss that probably should have been an easy win. The rest of the half continued with a lot of the same as the first half but everyone was starting to get a little tired there was a lot of shots and defence in the last few minutes but it resulted in a draw which meant .... EXTRA TIME .... possibly the most controversial extra time in c grade ever a goal was scored from just before halfway from the monkeys which was disallowed and one from the iceatopes from very close to the goal circle which was also disallowed leaving the game a 1 all draw. It was an amazing game by both teams and am definatly looking forward to the same thing next time.

14-FEB-2011
A Division - Week 2
Valentines Day Broomball
Richmond Ravens vs. Werrington County Sonics by Tim Brown
Sonics first game of the season with a few changes to the lineup. Reece Shepherd opting to play for Raptors :(, Paul Stockbridge working late this season, Cecilia Kim over in the UK, Jason Wheeler out of retirement, Sally Yabsley on debut, and Ben Robson back in the Sonics lineup after a long stint overseas..oh and Dyhana Scarano held hostage in a dentist chair :(. Robson got his dream start with Sally Yabsley giving a great through ball over the redline for Ben to run onto, Tim Brown in support, a 1-2 pass around the last defender and drawing the goalkeeper, Robson with the tap in. A high stick from Ravens in attack lead to a second Sonics goal. A scramble for possession in the corner then Andrew Chapman secure the ball passing to Sally Yabsley who drew a defender before sliding a ball across to an unmarked Tim Brown to shoot the ball into the the top far corner of the goal. Near the end a third goal to Sonics, a quick break out, Amran Sinha taking his shot and finding the net. Sonics 3-0 over Ravens. Certainly a surprise result as Ravens not usually very generous on the scoreboard. Could have been much closer as Ravens did have some great opportunities to score but some good scrambling to get the ball away and some great saves from Kate Yabsley secured a clean sheet for Sonics.

Parramatta Raptors vs. Penrith City Rangers by Louis Sultana
First Round winners, Raptors up against the Rangers. Rangers looked very good in the first week and looked like that would continue when they had all the posession early on. A defensive error by the Raptors and the Rangers had a three on zero breakaway. Liam Golding doing it all himself, beating the keeper with a low hard shot. Raptors hit back just before the break through an unassisted goal to Marc Kuipers. 1-1 HT. Raptors grabbed the lead soon after the break, with a beautiful goal to Marc Kuipers. As Kuipers went left, it opened up the face of the goal and he slammed the ball into the top corner. Raptors were looking more dominant from this point, creating numerous chances. With about eight minutes to go, Kuipers grabbed his third for the night after some great lead up work by Martin Sultana and Kerryn Lawler. Big game from the new Raptors players, Reece Shepherd and Brett Ackling showing they belong on the big stage. 3-1 Raptors.

14-FEB-2011
B Division - Week 2
Huskies Fail Again!
DruidsB vs. Tigers by Matt Hellyer
Tonight was DruidsB�s first game of the new season and they came out in force, starting the game with ten players and finishing with twelve. Every player from last season made an appearance along with new recruit Nick Colyer, brother to Damo and Dom. The extra mens games in the offseason meant about half the players were feeling fit and ready while the rest were reteaching their muscles to stretch the way broomball demands. Tigers also came prepared with a swift/streak/ambush/hide* of players. Then the drop came and the action began. Possession was initially held by DruidsB and fast play early on gave Dominic Colyer the opportunity he needed to send the ball hurtling towards the top of the goal. Tigers keeper Kevin rose to head butt it, but at the last moment it dipped and slipped past his shoulder to put DruidsB in the lead. Play continued back and forth with a number of missed opportunities to score until, with under five minutes left in the first half, a pass by Sally Yabsley-Bell gave Mark Balaam a clear shot which he drove home � a first for him with Tigers. In the dying seconds of the first half DruidsB responded with a solo run by Captain Damian Colyer who was tripped en route to the goal resulting in a send off for Ben Yabsley-Bell. Thus DruidsB began the second half with a one player advantage and used it to maintain possession. This culminated in a coordinated series of passes starting with Jo Mitchell and going via Jake Robson and Matt Hellyer before crossing the goal line. Tigers fought hard to equalise the score line and a chance for them came when an obstructive fall by first timer Nick put them up a player. Despite coming close a few times they were ultimately unsuccessful leaving DruidsB the victors at 2-1. *Interesting fact: There is no universally acknowledged word used as the collective noun for tigers. This is possibly because tigers are generally lone hunters. At most you might see three or four together � a male, a female and a cub or two.

Huskies vs. Ice Devils Round II by No One Again
Think Huskies got up 2-0.. Smoo with a fine solo goal from the first face off apparently.. who will ever know ? so again -1 duty point for huskies.. up to -3 now !!

13-FEB-2011
Mens Division - Week 4
Mens Comp into Second Round
Grizzlies vs. RiverRats
Rats started on fire, with all possession, territory and shots on goal. None of it resulted in goals though and it was Grizzlies on the board first, with a quick centre from Jason Wheeler and tap in from Jeff Ferrera. Game evened out after that with Grizzlies gaining some confidence from the goal. Second half saw Wheeler strike again with a long range goal. 2-0 Grizzlies.

Terminators vs. Warriors
Warriors got up in round 1 but round 2 would see a much more difficult game with the return of Captain Tim Brown from injury. Undermanned and with barely any posession Warriors held and scrambled for a 0-0 draw with Terminators. Was great to see Mr Shannon Jorda back on the ice after a 4.5 year hiatus.

10-FEB-2011
C Division - Week 1
C Grade off to a Flier !!
Iceatopes vs. Dugongs by Mitchell Burrett
Righto, first game of Broomball for C-Grade 2011. Iceatopes had an undermanned squad, with no Sally or Jess (poor form guys, poor form) and we were facing a revitalised Dugongs, looking to continue their strong performances of last season. Back and forth action on some rather wet ice, first goal went to Dugongs (keeper fail). A penalty call saw Iceatopes lose a few players going into halftime, but we took it in our stride, battling back with Josh getting his first goal from near halfway, putting the Iceatopes on the board. Grant followed up soon after, taking the score to 2-1, which is where it stayed till the final buzzer. The 2010 premiers came out swinging, thanks to the Dugongs for keeping us on our toes, it was a good way to start the season.

Journeymen vs. Rhinos by Darren Pearce
The first game of the season for these two teams had all the usual elements of broomball. Players running on ice, hitting the ball back and forth, and sometimes falling over in the processes. Amongst all this action some of us found the time to score some goals. The first goal of the night was the result of a Journeymen push into the Rhinos half. After an unfortunate shot at goal went wide, James Karamanos was quick to recover the loose ball and quickly passed it back to Tim Boyce, who was in an excellent position to pop the ball up, and into the net. Proving that the last goal wasn�t a stroke of luck, James and Tim decided to try it again.1 This time they were also playing against the clock. With time ticking down and another shot landing clear away from the net, James once again ensured we remained in possession, and quickly passed the ball back to Tim, who managed to beat the goal keeper and the buzzer to make it 2-0 at the end of the first half. The Rhinos took their positions in the second half, and Jeff Ferrara wasted no time. The ball barely kissed the surface of the ice before he was charging down to the Journeymen keeper. I watched helplessly as my team mates were left behind. Jeff faked to the left, then shot to the right and into an open net. And with that the Rhinos were in the board. Sick of playing second fiddle to Tim, James decided to go at it alone. James took the out wide, then dived back into the centre field to expertly deliver and awesomely well times shot into the back of the net. Then with 5 minutes to go on the clock, luck turned my way. A pass from Tim over the halfway line saw me with the ball and behind the rhinos defence. Looking to redeem myself from my earlier humiliation at goals, I ran as fast as I could, constantly fearful of being overtaken by a sprinting defender. I took the ball as far as I dared, and with a desperate swing and sent the ball towards the net, where for once it sailed true and into the goals. Final score for the night was 4-1 to the Journeymen. Thanks to the Rhinos for a well played game and a good start to the season.

Knights Who Say Broomball vs. Brass Monkeys by Josh Burton
Knights vs. Brass Monkeys by Joshua Burton A new season brings new goals, new faces and everyone back to zero. The Knights, looking to go one better this season, while the Brass Monkeys are trying to move from new faces to contender in C Division. The match had the usual feeling out process, with everyone getting back into the swings of things after something like 2 months of rest and holiday cheer built up. The Knights took advantage first with a couple of goals to Josh in the first half, with assists from Brett and Nathan. The second half was more of the Knights using the fitness and more skilled players to work as Kiera ended with a double, and Josh ending with 4. Full Time 6-0 Knights. A good start to get the rust out of the system for the new season. We welcome an old face, but a new face for the Knights, as Martin Brennan has joined the Knights clan.

07-FEB-2011
A Division - Week 1
New Look A Grade Off and Running
Parramatta Raptors vs. Glenmore Park Druids by Louis Sultana
The start of a new A-grade season and plenty of team changes. The Champions from 2010, Parramatta Raptors have lost Canadian import JC Huet to the Quebec League while Bryn Shepherd is out indefintely with an ankle injury. Repalcing them is Reece Shepherd and Brett Ackling, off loaded at the end of the season by the Werrington Sonics. The biggest move in the off season is that of Australian and Former Glenmore Parks Druids Captain Saxon Hooper. Saxon Hooper is on a Transfer deal to the Richmond Ravens, covering for the loss of Ravens Captain, Dane Hansen (Knee Injury). Saxon Hooper was replaced by Shannon Jorda, a former A-Grade Veteran, coming out of retirement. New look teams meant these two teams were needing to start on new combinations. Both teams had their chances but couldnt convert, probably more a result of either a result of the off season rather than the new players. 0-0 at the end of normal time. Overtime and Raptors were in their comfort zone. They took their time until a strin of passes found Marc Kuipers open on the left wing. Marc slammed the ball into the back of the net. 1-0 OT Raptors.

Richmond Ravens vs. Penrith City Rangers by James Kristof
The first round of the season saw a match-up between the new look Rangers and the new look Ravens. Ravens started the better of the two teams, scoring early after building a lot of pressure on the Rangers defence with Steve Dardo hammering home the opening goal. Rangers fought back quickly though, tightening up their defence with great efforts from Jo Moore, Skye Blakeney and James Kristof, allowing brilliant set up play from Dave DeGruyter, Luke Simmonds and Mark Rulewski which ended up in Rangers equalising, to make it 1-1 at half-time. Rangers started strongly in the second half, gaining the lead after a brilliant run from Mark Rulewski resulted in his assisting Rangers second goal, before Dave DeGruyter's astonishing set up play gave Rangers their third goal. The match finished 3-1 to Rangers, a good win to start off their season......oh yeah, and Liam Golding got a hat-trick or something...but who really cares right?

07-FEB-2011
B Division - Week 1
Titans and Huskies Open with a Win
Titans vs. Tigers by Kathy Andrew
First game back for the season, and the Titans came in somewhat ill prepared with their speedster Bryn Shepherd out due to a lightly twisted ankle (that required surgery, maybe we shouldn't have teased him incessantly when he did it. Hmm), and Greg "Goalie Ninja" Dezman missing from the line-up. Our valiant captain Russell Gregory got the scoring underway after several attempts with a fluke goal in about the 6th minute, followed in quick succession with goals to Reece Shepherd and Dave De Gruyter. By the half time break, the Titans were up 6-0. The 1/2 time pep talk bolstered the Tigers defence, tightening up and only allowing another 2 goals through, with the final goal hitting the net in the last 20 seconds of the game, and our captain living up to his word of scoring in the last few seconds. Special mention must go out to Jesse Blakeney, Chris "off the post" Dezman, Nissa Dezman and Kathy Andrew for a tight and cohesive defence. Man of the match awarded to Russell "Tricky White Boy" Gregory with a 5 goal haul - something which the Titans will expect in every game from now on from the Captain.

Huskies vs. Ice Devils by No One
So Huskies with a good win.. 2-0 but not a good admin start. No one showed to ref, and no write up for the win. So 4 points for a win, -1 duty point for no refs and -1 duty point for no write up. Lets hope it doesnt cost them at the end of the season.

23-JAN-2011
Mens Competition is Go
Four new drafted teams kicked off the first ever Sunday evening Mens competition. Warriors took on Terminators in the first game on some pretty wet ice. Warriors getting over them 2-0 with goals to Saxon Hooper and Russell Gregory. Second game saw the River Rats take on Grizzlies. Grizzlies scored first with a goal to Daniel Wong. 1-0 halftime. River Rats evened it up only a minute into the second half with Louis Sultana scoring. 1-1 fulltime. Interesting first up week for the mens comp. Looking forward to see how it develops over the next 8 weeks.

Mens Teams
Warriors	Terminators	River Rats	Grizzlies
Saxon Hooper Marc Kuipers Troy Carroll Mark Rulewski Dominic Colyer James Dymond Joshua Newell Grant Bentley Russell Gregory Jordie MartinWaterHouse Mark Balaam	Tim Brown Andrew Chapman Liam Golding Martin Sultana Ryan Findlayson Amran Sinha Brett Ackling Jeff Burkinshaw Kieran McDonald Randy Lynch Luke Emerton	Louis Sultana Andrew Causby Dave Degruyter Zac Law Damian Colyer Glen Butler-Fleming Steve Dardo Joshua Coates Aaron Parker Mijail Golovchenko Eric Walton	James Kristof Daniel Wong Luke Simmonds Jason Wheeler Jeff Ferrera Aaron Dymond Reece Shepherd Ryan Priestly Shannan Heinitz Jason Hall Daniel Paterson Jeremy Gee

11-DEC-2010
A Division Grand Final
Raptors Win their First Premiership
Grand Final: Glenmore Park Druids vs. Parramatta Raptors by Louis Sultana
The A-Grade Grand Final saw the Minor Premiers Parramatta Raptors up against the second placed Glenmore Park Druids. It was the fifth time these teams would meet this season, with the Druids winning the most recent encounter, a Grand Final Qualifier only 5 days earlier. The Raptors winning an overtime thriller to scrape through to the final. Grand Final day saw many late team changes, with Druids losing Dominic Colyer to illness but saw the return of gun forward Alison Camac-Benson-Hewett. The Raptors lost Sally Ormiston to Don's Smallgoods and Bryn Shepherd to the Royal Australian Ballet. They also lost Canadian import JC Huet to the M5 Tunnel, but only for the first 5 minutes of the game. As the game started, Raptors were under immediate pressure with Druids applying a strong forecheck. The Raptors resisted the early onslaught and were able to post first points through a lucky deflection. After the two referees deliberated in the middle over the ruling, the goal was finally awarded to Dani Mitrevski. A string of penalties to the Raptors, enabled the Druids to hit back just before the break. Linda Findlayson scoring her third goal against the Raptors in as many games on the Power Play. 1-1 HT. Early parts of the second half saw the Druids continuing to apply pressure and were unlucky not to grab the lead. It looked like this game could go down to the wire that is until Daniel Wong decided to inject himself into the game. A quick counter attack from the Raptors saw Wong and Kerryn Lawler combine for the goal of the night. Wong finishing it off with an excellent deke of the keeper. Daniel Wong nailed his second soon after beating the keeper again. With little time remaining, Druids pulled the keeper to get the extra attacker. A lose ball in the Raptors half found was pushed into the Druids half, with Wong beating everyone to post his third into the empty net. A Grand Final HAT TRICK to Daniel Wong. Raptors held on to secure the A-GRADE title. This is the first A-Grade title for the Raptors and after only their second in the top grade after taking over from the River Rats. Congratulations to all the Raptors players (including all players who filled in) on an excellent season including being undefeated in the regular rounds. Also, on behalf of the Raptors and the entire NSW and Australian Broomball Community, I would like to wish JC Huet all the best as his returns home to his Native Canada. JC will be missed but at least he has a shiny new A Grade title to take home with him. Until Next Season....Raptors 4-1 and A GRADE CHAMPIONS.

Points award winners for A Division:
Male - Saxon Hooper(Druids)
Female - Linda Findlayson, Bec Davis (Druids) & Danielle Mitrevski (Raptors)

Mixed A Division Champions - Parramatta Raptors
Back From Left: Marc Kuipers, Louis Sultana, JC Huet, Martin Sultana, Ghis Calloch, Sally Ormiston
Front from Left: Daniel Wong, Kerryn Lawler, Danielle Mitrevski




Mixed A Division Runners Up - Glenmore Park Druids
Back From Left: Linda Findlayson, Ryan Findlayson, Saxon Hooper, Damien Colyer, Allie Camac-Benson-Hewitt
Front from Left: Bec Davis, Glen Butler-Fleming, Zac Law, Kieran McDonald

11-DEC-2010
B Division Grand Final
Druids B go back to back !!
Grand Final: Team IceBucket vs. Glenmore Park DruidsB by Matt Hellyer


Points award winners for B Division:
Male - Brett Ackling (Ice Devils)
Female -Sally Yabsley (Tigers)

Mixed B Division Champions - Glenmore Park DruidsB
Back From Left: Joel Robson, Zac Law, Damien Colyer, Aaron Parker, Matt Hellyer, Jake Robson
Front from Left: Cameron Thomas, Jo Mitchell, Kate Yabsley, Kate Robson




Mixed B Division Runners Up - Team IceBucket
Back From Left: Jeff Burkinshaw, Liam Golding, Bryan Macklin, Lisa Price
Front from Left: Ryan Priestly, Mark Rulewski, Cale Golding

11-DEC-2010
C Division Grand Final
Icetopes Win !! Icetopes Win !! Icetopes Win !!
Grand Final: Knights Who Say Broomball vs. Iceatopes by Mitchell Burrett
Alrighty, here we go. Grand Final Commentary from the Keeper's Box! The C-Grade final saw old rivals The Knights who (insert description here) Broomball versus the Iceatopes, who were going into their first final as a team. Quiet confidence was evident within the Tope camp after learning of the absence of the Knight's Brett, as well as an injury to Kieran. But karma can be a cruel mistress, as star Iceatope player Sally was struck down with a (self-inflicted) injury, removing herself from the game and residing her to sideline cheerleading duties. Sally's *ahem* misfortune meant that Jess and Steph were facing a full 40 minutes of icetime, plus whatever potential overtime might occur (and given our recent marathon, I think both sides were fully expecting the game to venture into OT territory). Nonetheless, the game started shortly after the claiming of the D-Grade crown by the Rhinos (Congrats guys btw), with both teams eager to prove their skills to the millions (and millions) in attendance. The ole memory is a bit hazy in terms of who scored the goals, but I know it was 1-0 to the Topes going into half-time. After some encouragment from our sideline coach, the Topes started the second half determined to come out on top. Of course this meant the keeper almost shat himself each time the ball entered our half of the ice, knowing that his conceding of a goal could potentially cost them everything. Luckily, no post-match pants cleanup was required, as a combination of strong Tope offence and defence and Keeper sheer luck meant that the Knights were unable to get one on the board - something which seems to irk Josh Burton each game we play, I can't remember the last time you scored against me mate :P Anyway, goals went to Josh Newell, Justin McMillan, Phil Taggart and Steph Day, congrats guys. Surprisingly enough, I believe this was the only game that Grant Bentley didn't score in all season. Nevertheless, a top effort from both teams, making for an enjoyable final to play and I'm sure it was just as enthralling to watch. Now the new season team restocking begins, and we look towards 2011 for the next year of Tope dominance

Points award winners for C Division:
Male - Josh Burton (Knights Who Say Broomball)
Female -Stephanie Day(Iceatopes)

Mixed C Division Champions - Iceatopes
Back From Left: Sally Ormiston, Justin McMillan, Phil Taggart, Grant Bentley, Josh Newell
Front from Left: Jess Valentine, Steph Day, Mitchell Burrett




Mixed C Division Runners Up - Knights Who Say Broomball
Back From Left: Rebecca Collier, Kieran McDonald, Lana Kuipers, Lucy Kuipers
Front from Left: Josh Burton, Nathan Ackling

11-DEC-2010
D Division Grand Final
Rhinos all Over Atomix
Grand Final: Rhinos vs. Atomix by Jarrad Ferrera
Spectators from both factions lined the stands as each team took to the ice for the first 2010 Summer Broomball final of the day. The grand final saw Jeff and Cat return from their overseas travels, bolstering the Rhinos substitute figures which had been lacking for the past few matches. The Rhinos now back at full strength gained direct entry to the final with a narrow win over the Brass Monkeys. The Atomix came charging into the final on the back of consecutive wins against Wraith and the Brass Monkeys in the preliminary final. The first half was tightly contested as each side took advantage of the good ice. The opening minutes saw the Atomix hold the Rhinos within their half as they maintained possession just inside the Rhinos third. The Rhinos have played a strong season in defense and this experience was drawn on as Atomix lead a strong attack in the first half. Rhinos responded to the attack with a number of linebreaks coming out of defense. On the back of one of these breaks, a flick pass picked out Mark Ferrara close to the Atomix goal who jabbed it past the goalie late in the first half. Half-time score: 1-0. The beginning of the second half had Atomix down to five players from a penalty late in the first. Rhinos held possession in Atomix territory for the early stages of the half, but were unable to break through the defense and capitalise. The score remained unchanged until another Atomix penalty gave the Rhinos a one-man advantage. A crossed ball from Jarad Ferrara found Penny Ryan who fired it home for the Rhinos second. The third for the Rhinos came not long after as Jeff Ferrara received a pass off the boards, rifling it in from the edge of the Atomix third. As the clock wound down the Atomix attack was doing quite the opposite. With roughly five minutes left in the half, the Atomix broke free of the attacking Rhinos, charging down the ice to slip one in behind the Rhinos goal. The final few minutes saw a return to defensive play for a tiring Rhinos, who eventually secured the win. Final score: 3-1. Rhinos would like to thank the Atomix who delivered an exciting and enjoyable game - three cheers capping off a game of class and sportsmanship.

Mixed D Division Champions - Rhinos
Back From Left: Matthew McCabe, Penny Ryan, Mark Ferrara, Jeff Ferrara, Jarad Ferrara
Front from Left: Sara Powderly, Megan Hawkes, Catherine McDonald, Bec Belcastro




Mixed D Division Runners Up - Atomix
Back From Left: Mark Balaam, Russell Micailef, David Porter, Mika Gilovchenko, Daniel Paterson, Ash Buckland, Steve Dardo
Front from Left: Renee Currell, Emma Young, Megan Ranse, Joanne Morley

11-DEC-2010
Womens Division Grand Final
HockeyRoos Secure First Title
Grand Final: HockeyRoos vs. The Femmes by Danielle Mitrevski
It was always going to be a tough game against the fiery Femmes for the Hockeyroo�s. Hockeyroo�s recruited four new players this year, including one highly skilled hockey player however; the Femmes had very experienced players. There were 5 players in total (from both teams) already played another grandfinal and this made a few of them tired before the match started, so fitness was going to play a big part in the game. Femmes had a lot of possession in the first half creating many opportunities to score. Excellent running back by Kerryn Lawler shut down the opportunities to save a few two on ones with the goal keeper. Great talking by goal keeper Sally Yabsley helped the new players from the Hockeyroo�s to mark up better in defence. Sara Roffrey was putting a lot of pressure on the Hockeyroo�s backs helping to turn over possession on several occasions; eventually forcing a turn over close to the goal, and Femmes managed to put the ball past the goalie making the score 1-0. Hockeyroo�s were determined to bounce back however; the strong defence by Alana Bracken was frustrating the Hockeyroo�s as it seemed the Hockeyroo�s could not get around her and goal keeper Kate Yabsley -as usual very comfortably saved many shots from the Hockeyroo�s. It was evident the rules were starting to sink in for the new players when fewer off sides were called and new player Jess German was using her hand to stop the ball in the air and bring it down under control. The skills of the new Hockeyroo player/existing hockey player- Ness Kristaly emerged later in the first half with an awesome hard low shot into the left hand corner passing the goal keeper, equalising the score to 1-1. The second half heated up with both teams determined to play out the last 20 minutes to ensure no overtime had to be entered. Fast breakaways were made by Jo Mitchell causing trouble for the Hockeyroo�s defence. With scores locked at 1-1 and just over 5 minutes to go the Hockeyroo�s had a breakaway with Danielle Mitrevski slotting one in making the score 2-1 to the Hockeyroo�s. With less then 5 minutes to go Hockeyroo�s slowed down the pace and tried to control the ball rather then giving possession away. Femmes continued to press but time was not on their side. Final score 2-1 to Hockeyroo�s. First grandfinal win!!!! Congratulations girls-Well deserved!!!

Womens Division Champions - Hockey Roos
Back From Left: Ashlyn Harrison, Kirsten Payne, Ghis Calloch, Danielle Mitrevski, Vanessa Kristaly
Front from Left: Emma Harrison ,Allie Camac-Benson-Hewitt ,Kerryn Lawler ,Jessica German




Womens Division Runners Up - The Femmes
Back From Left: Alana Bracken, Sara Roffey, Lis Viney, Joanne Mitchell, Joanne Moore, Katie Colyer, Gemma Butler-Fleming

11-DEC-2010
Mens Division Grand Final
Ticklers Take Out the Previously Undefeated Stench
Grand Final: Ticklers vs. Silver Stench by Matt Hellyer

Mens Division Champions - Ticklers
Back From Left: Liam Golding, Marc Kuipers, JC Huet, Aaron Parker, Damien Colyer, Jeff Burkinshaw, Matt Hellyer
Front from Left: Josh Newell, Zac Law, Mark Rulewski, Daniel Wong




Mens Division Runners Up - Silver Stench
Back From Left: Dane Hansen, Louis Sultana, Jeff Ferrera, Bryan Macklin
Front from Left: Steve Dardo, Andrew Causby, Glen Butler-Fleming, David Buckley