Newpark 0 – 2 Ashton
Newpark started brightly, winning two early short corners but unfortunately failing to convert either. Finn Harty made an excellent save to keep the scores level, with Newpark finishing the first quarter slightly on top.
Ashton grew into the game in the second quarter, putting Newpark under pressure with three successive short corners. Excellent defending from Josh Carroll and Finn Harty kept Ashton out. Despite an Ashton green card giving Newpark a numerical advantage, the teams went into half-time goalless.
Ashton continued to dominate possession in the third quarter, hitting the post from a short corner. Newpark still threatened, with Rankin driving into the circle to win a short corner, but the opportunity went unconverted. Harty made further important saves as Newpark continued to defend resolutely.
The pressure eventually told in the final quarter, with Ashton scoring from a free hit before converting a short corner to make it 2–0. Newpark had a late short corner of their own but could not find a way through.
Despite the defeat, Newpark showed great determination and defensive resilience against a much-improved Ashton side. With Banbridge drawing against Campbell College, qualification remained possible heading into the final group fixture.
Newpark 1 – 4 Banbridge
Newpark showed attacking intent throughout their final group match against Banbridge, knowing a win would put either side top of the group, while a draw would see Banbridge finish first and Newpark second.
Banbridge started strongly, converting two penalty corners in the opening quarter, both helped by deflections, to establish an early lead. Newpark responded with some promising attacking play, creating opportunities in the Banbridge 25 and circle but struggling to find the finish.
A penalty corner, following a poor Banbridge challenge that resulted in a green card, gave Newpark an opportunity to get back into the game. Despite having a numerical advantage and creating two good chances, they were unable to convert.
Newpark pushed higher in the final quarter in search of a goal, but Banbridge exploited the space at the back to score twice in quick succession. Newpark continued to battle, and a superb driving run from David Rankin, beating six players, won a late penalty corner which Josh Carroll converted.
Despite the 4–1 defeat, Newpark showed plenty of passion, attacking intent and perseverance. The difference was Banbridge’s greater efficiency in front of goal, with Newpark left to reflect on missed opportunities.
The result saw Newpark finish third in the group, missing out on the semi-finals of both the Tasmanian Shield and Herbie Sharman Trophy. Despite the disappointment, the team can be proud of their efforts and the way they represented themselves throughout the tournament.
