THE Port Stephens Hornets have claimed a fifth Newcastle Hockey Association premiership after a dominate performance in the third grade grand final on Saturday.
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The Hornets have won five premierships from the last eight seasons.
Club stalwart Scott Rainbow said the time may be right for the club to move into the elite grades.
“There is pressure from rival clubs and some within the Newcastle association about the Hornets moving up, but we must be careful to make sure the club is ready to handle the next level,” he said.
“We don’t have the number of players or resources that the established clubs in the top grades have, and I would want the club to be competitive on the field.
“I think we are a couple of quality players short of where we need to be.
“But anything can happen with player recruitment and we will see where the playing roster is in early 2017 before making a decision.”
An opening goal to long-time player Brad Willcocks and a double to Jono Fletcher sealed the Hornets’ 3-1 win against South Newcastle.
The Hornets defeated Souths, the 2016 minor premiers, just three weeks ago to claim a grand final spot only to face the side again in the premiership decider.
Willcocks broke the deadlock at the 10 minute mark when a cross from the right corner was deflected at the near post beyond the keeper.
The goal ignited the Hornets and moments later Fletcher scored a solo, turning two defenders inside out before dragging an advancing keeper and reverse sticking the ball into the net.
As as half time approached, Souths were denied an excellent goal scoring chance by goalkeeper Jeremy Miller.
An accidental collision between a Souths player and the Hornets captain-coach Paul Baxter injured the midfielder – cutting the skin above his right eye.
However, Baxter was able to continue in the second half albeit with a heavily bandaged head.
Baxter was instrumental in the midfield, marshalling the team defensively and offensively all game.
Early in the second half Fletcher bagged his second of the day, converting a penalty corner shot with a well placed drag flick into the left corner of the goal.
Souths then enjoyed a period of control and created a few good opportunities to get back in the game but were repeatedly denied by the in form Miller between the posts, his efforts making him the player of the match.
Souths eventually grabbed a goal in the dying stages of the half but was too little too late as the Hornets held on for the win.
Rainbow believed the team’s youngsters were crucial to success this season.
“Lucas McLeod, Jamie Whatman and Brad Fletcher enjoyed their first season in the senior ranks and played a crucial role throughout the year, their enthusiasm and passion for the sport ensured everyone in the squad played at a high level every game,” he said.
“And credit to the local Nelson Bay competition who are producing junior players capable of playing at this level.”
If the Hornets do move up, it would be the first time a club from Port Stephens has played in the top grades of Newcastle men’s hockey.
