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League Hockey: Melville remains winless

Headshot of Josh Zimmerman
Josh ZimmermanMelville Gazette

MELVILLE City remains winless after twice failing to capitalise on strong starts in an inconsistent opening to the League season.

The opening game of the year, a derby against Fremantle at Perth Hockey Stadium, resulted in a 4-3 loss.

Melville conceded an early goal but then struck back through Justin McDougall off excellent lead up play by Nick Tate.

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Matt Willis then converted a penalty corner on the stroke of half time and the team took a hard fought lead into the break.

After a series of missed chances immediately after half time, Fremantle struck back with three goals in a devastating seven minute period.

Melville fought all the way, and another goal to Willis saw the deficit brought down to a single goal, but unfortunately, time ran out before an equaliser could be found.

More recently, Melville drew 3-3 with Old Guildford in its home opener at Morris Buzzacott Reserve last Thursday.

Another seesawing battle saw Melville take the lead with a goal to Nick Tate, followed shortly by a Guildford equaliser.

Willis then scored twice for the home side to take a 3-1 advantage, only for Guildford to come back and equalise, with the final goal coming from a penalty corner after the siren.

Coach Russell Lee said it was important that his side finished off games as strongly as they started.

“One point after two games is not where we would like to be, especially since we were in a position to win both games,” he said.

“The guys are playing good hockey and as long as we continue to believe in ourselves I’m sure the results will follow.”