Riffs prove too strong for All Blacks in Upper Great Southern Hockey Association men’s title

Riffs are the 2020 Upper Great Southern Hockey Association men’s A-grade premiers after they defeated All Blacks at Narrogin Hockey Turf on Saturday.

Riffs got away to a great start, scoring in the first two minutes of the game through Dane Angwin.

All Blacks responded only minutes later to level the score when Sam Broad found the back of the net off a penalty stroke.

The game then became a battle of the midfields with both teams working overtime, the score remaining at 1-1 at quarter-time.

In the second quarter, Riffs had more ball possession and numerous attacking moves.

Rhett Ballard slotted a good strong shot that found the back of the net, giving Riffs a 2-1 lead heading into half-time.

All Blacks tried to put the pressure on Riffs in the second half but Riffs had all the answers.

Ballard continued to go about his business for Riffs, netting his second goal to hand Riffs a 3-1 lead going into the last term.

Riffs continued to have control of the ball for most of the last quarter, with All Blacks having brief bursts of play.

Riffs ran out 3-1 victors to secure premiership glory.

Grady Francis was named most valuable player in the decider for his role in the win.

Earlier in the day, Warriors defeated Dumbleyung 2-1 in the men’s B-grade decider, with Warrirors’ Steven Durrell named the MVP.