This weekend’s mouth-watering women’s Premier League Hockey all-Orange derby has been five-and-a-half years in the making and based on Confederates’ and Ex-Services’ form in 2017, it will have been worth the wait.
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While the two sides have faced off almost a dozen times since the former re-entered the competition in 2012, none of those fixtures have been surrounded by the buzz, excitement and expectation that Saturday’s is.
For the very first time, a Feds-Ex-Services derby is a clash between two top five sides – they sit second and fourth respectively.
Feds’ showings have been a far cry from 2016. Although it was undeniable the side was building to something, the red and blues still only won two games last year.
They’ve already eclipsed that mark in 2017, winning three of their first four – Ex-Services boasts the same record.
In-form Ex-Services striker Jade Williams, coming off a double last weekend, is no stranger to derbies but she admitted this one does have a distinctly different feel to it.
“I’ve played in plenty of derbies, but it is different (leading in) this year, because Feds are doing well,” she said.
“We’re still pretty confident though. We’ve been a bit more laid back this year, a little less serious and I think that’s been good for us.”
One huge reason for Feds’ resurgence has been the inclusion of former West Australian Country and Australian Country star Rachel Hoey.
The 25-year-old moved to Orange this year with her partner Tom MacSmith – who has been starring in Orange Emus’ reserve grade side – and has fitted into Feds’ side seamlessly, adding much-needed experience and starch wherever she plays.
“I’d never really heard of a utility player until I came to Orange, but I’ve played everywhere so far this year,” the 25-year-old laughed, before saying she’s looking forward to her first derby clash.
“Everyone’s been very welcoming, I feel like I’m part of the team already which is great. I don’t know anyone here so I don’t think there’s any pressure (to perform) there, which has been really good.
“I guess the rivalry’s not really there for me … but I’m really looking forward to it. I’d love to keep meeting new people and players and keep seeing what Orange has to offer.”
While her side is gunning for another win, Hoey said Feds are also focused on the bigger picture.
“We’re really developing, we’re getting better with every game so I think this weekend is a good opportunity for us to keep working on the things we need to,” she said. Saturday’s derby starts at 12.30pm.