After much needed rain falls, a muddy and slippery ground was anticipated, but the sun shone and the game was played in fine and warm conditions on a good, fast playing surface.

Merredin opened the score early in the game when Terri Rogers pushed the ball into the goal after some confusing play in the circle.

The Merredin team continued to be slightly dominant for the remainder of the first half, with all team members making valuable contributions across the field.

As expected, Meckering came out strongly after the half time break and pressured Merredin’s defence.

Merredin goalie Rebecca Hutton made a number of spectacular saves in the last line of defence but Meckering’s attacking pressure finally paid off in the final 10 minutes when they were able to convert a goal from field play.

Scores remained locked at 1-1 at the final whistle.

Best player for Merredin, for the second consecutive week, was awarded to goalie Hutton for her solid defensive efforts. Coach’s award went to team captain Marie Steber for a strong linking and running game in the centre of the ground and the Red Box award went to Shelley Lombardini.

Thanks to Merredin’s umpire Kathy Whittick.

Merredin has a bye next week, and will travel to Quairading on August 9 for their final game of the home and away season.

Spectators who braved the icy winds for the women’s match on July 19 were treated to a finals sneak preview when Merredin hosted Tammin in the East Avon Women’s Hockey association match.

Tammin held the upper hand in the first half as Merredin struggled to find their rhythm.

The Tammin attackers were relentless in peppering the goals with many fine shots but the Merredin defenders prevailed and both sides were scoreless at half time.

A renewed Merredin team emerged from the halftime peptalk and tried some attacking of their own but Tammin’s defence remained unbroken and the match ended in a hard fought 0-0 draw.

Merredin’s best player was goalie Hutton and the red box award went to Pip Kirby.

Only three weekends remain until the 2008 finals begin.