The Lower South East Hockey Association’s junior hockey fixtures got off to a great start last weekend with a closely contested match between Tigers and West in the Under 12 girls competition.

West scored early on, taking advantage of a Tigers side with a brand-new goalie and re-configured backline.

However, Tigers replied almost immediately through striker Laura Doll, who shortly thereafter doubled her tally to give her team a 2-1 lead.

Lottie Kain and Lucy Hopgood controlled the midfield for Tigers and Cameryn Bartholomew and Doll looked dangerous when they linked up moving forwards.

For West, Bailee Robertson showed her experience and skills, but in the end Tigers were able to hold on and win their first game for the season 2-1.

In the Under 15 girl’s West were able to turn the tables on Tigers, scoring twice in the first half to win 2-0.

Tigers certainly created many chances and probably had the lion’s share of possession, but were unable to convert despite some blistering runs down the wing by Arrabelle Searle and good passing between Tayla Gaut and Lily McIntosh.

For West Sophie Grosse looked dominant and linked up well with Kayla Branstone to drive her side forward.

These two sides will certainly have some tight tussles during the year and Tigers will look to be more efficient next time they meet.

Cavaliers was excited to finally have an Under 12 boys team take to the field again after many years of not having a full team of players.

The last few seasons they have combined with Redbacks, but they became foes in their first game in a friendly competition.

The Cavaliers team comprised of seven players new to the sport of hockey and two more experienced players.

They played with passion and show lots of potential for the rest of the season.

Redbacks finished as the winners with a 3-0 victory while showing great sportsmanship on field to the new players and team.