ACES ladies hockey team will be chasing a ninth consecutive Mount Isa hockey title tomorrow.
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But standing in their way is a strong Pirates team, whose only loss came to the Aces (1-0) two weeks ago.
Aces star Catherine Power knows anything can happen in finals and doesn’t expect it to be an easy match.
“We have put together eight really strong years, capped off by eight titles but before that, we lost five straight finals matches,” she said.
“For that reason, we know that anything can happen in the grand final.”
“I don’t think the week off has benefited us either, because the Pirates side had the chance to sharpen up their skills last Saturday.”
As the benchmark team all season, Power will be again counting on a full team performance by her side.
“At the back, goalkeeper Hope Philip and defender Leanne Blythe will be counted on to hold out Pirates’ main attackers such as Sian Dodd and Amy Cunningham,” she said.
“Christine and Amy Power have played solid all season in the midfield and their connection with link Welita Sloane will be key.”
“If they can provide strong service and passes to forward Jade Coghlan, I’m sure we will be able to score goals.”
Pirates will head into the match understrength missing two key players, Julie Bartolo and Lauren Brown.
“Unfortunately I won’t be there for the grand final but I have full faith that the girls can step up and compete with Aces,” Julie Bartolo said.
“Aces are a tough match-up at the best of times, but in a grand final atmosphere, they will be at their best.”
“I’m counting on forward Bec Lovelock to step up and have a big game for the side, because we will need a goal or two from her.’’
Regular half Ashleigh De will replace Bartolo at centre half.
“Of course Sian Dodd will also be expected to lead from the front for us too,” Bartolo said.
The women’s grand final begins at 2.45pm at the Mount Isa hockey fields.