Hale breaks drought to claim first-ever women’s Premier League title

Hale Hockey Club have claimed their first-ever women’s Premier League title in a scintillating 2-1 victory over Westside Wolves in this year’s Grand Final.

After defeating Wolves 5-0 in their first meeting in the finals, Hale were challenged right until the very end, but the best side in it this year went out on top and lifted the cup for 2022.

It was a hot contest in the first half with both sides going toe-to-toe but heading into the half they were unable to break the nil-all deadlock.

Hale found the answer late in the third quarter, with Hockeyroo Mariah Williams nailing her chance from a penalty corner to lead her side to an advantage heading into the final quarter.

Edwina Bone added to Hale’s tally late in the piece in the 55^th minute, with a late charge from Wolves in the 59^th minute through a goal to Ashlea Fey’s too late to mount the comeback.

Charlesworth Medallist and Hale leader Line Malan was thrilled with the victory in such a strong contest.

“It feels incredible – an unreal feeling,” Malan said.

“I think we were pressuring them quite a bit and we just decided to keep at it and we were hopeful we’d get the rewards.

“They’re a great team and we made sure to not underestimate them and it all came down to hard work and sticking to our plan in the end, so I’m very proud of the girls’ efforts today.”

The victory, the first for hale in the topflight for the women’s side, is a victory that means the world to the club.

“It took a long time but it is such a great feeling,” Malan said.

“I’m so proud of the girls and the club.”

For full scores, click here.

Watch the full match replay here.