ORANGE started the 2014 Hockey NSW under 13 boys’ state championships in the best possible fashion on Friday with a convincing win over Tamworth (2).
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Despite an early start - Orange’s clash with Tamworth kicked off at 8am - coach Annie Pakinga said her side was virtually flawless, scoring a 2-nil win in the division two clash.
“It was beautiful hockey to watch,” she said.
“Normally with boys they are a bit sluggish early in the morning but they connected well on the field, communicated well and just played very good hockey.
“Hopefully we can keep it going.”
First half goals to Trent Wilde and Bailey Ferguson were enough to secure Orange victory.
Pakinga said the most positive aspect of the win was her troops’ awareness inside the circle, despite being unable to convert a plethora of second-half opportunities.
“We had plenty of corners, and the boys saw if it wasn’t on they needed to work for the breach and try to score from there,” she said.
“We had so many opportunities in that second period, we just couldn’t find the back of the net. So we know what we need to do in our next few games but that win gives us a lot of confidence.
“I really just can’t fault the boys’ performance at all. Right from the warm-up they were ready to go.
“We won’t be changing a thing from here on in.”
Orange took on Port Macquarie on Friday night, and will clash with Sydney (3) (1pm) and Bathurst (4pm) on Saturday before the play-offs on Sunday.