Saturday, April 18: A surprising finale to the Males’s EY Hockey League noticed Lisnagarvey topped champions as they beat YMCA by a single aim to capitalise on Banbridge’s draw in opposition to Avoca.
The vacation spot of the league title hung within the steadiness heading into the ultimate day, with only a single level seeing Banbridge sit above Lisnagarvey within the standings, with the previous dealing with Avoca and the latter taking up YMCA, each on house turf.
At Havelock Park, Banbridge led after 19 minutes due to Louis Rowe, however Avoca fought again to degree phrases due to a Shane O’Donoghue penalty nook. The house aspect seemed on observe to safe the title when Matthew McKee restored their lead earlier than the top of the third quarter however Avoca spoiled the celebrations, scoring on the ultimate whistle from a penalty nook to open the door for Lisnagarvey.
On Comber Highway, Lisnagarvey took the chance to go prime, with only a single aim from talisman Matthew Nelson sufficient to see them overcome a resilient YMCA aspect.
Elsewhere, Corinthian secured a play-off place on the ultimate day with victory over Cookstown to climb to sixth. The aspect needed to come from behind with a view to safe the three factors however a Gregory Williams hattrick and aim apiece for Harry St Ledger and Ian Stewart was greater than sufficient for them to depart Camlin Park with the win.
In Garryduff, Monkstown obtained the three factors they wanted to lockdown fifth place and guarantee they reached the play-offs. Hosts Cork C of I made it tough for the guests, preserving the deficit to only a single aim till the thirtieth minute when Monkstown ultimately pulled away.
And in Serpentine Avenue, Three Rock Rovers pulled off a sensational late comeback to attract 2-2, however the hosts secured the bonus level and bragging rights within the shootout.
The ultimate outcomes imply that Lisnagarvey and Banbridge will progress on to the EY Champions Trophy Finals Weekend on Could 9, whereas Three Rock will face Corinthian and Pembroke will host Monkstown on April 25 within the EY Champions Trophy Play-Offs in a battle to safe the ultimate two locations.
Banbridge 2 [3 – 0] 2 Avoca
Cookstown 2 – 5 Corinthian
Cork C of I 1 – 7 Monkstown
Lisnagarvey 1 – 0 YMCA
Pembroke Wanderers 2 [3 – 1] 2 Three Rock Rovers
Hockey Eire
