Ollie Gillies scores for Benalla against Goulburn Valley Grammar School on August 31.
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The Benalla Tigers triumphed in the inaugural Goulburn Valley Hockey Association under-16 A-grade grand final on Saturday, winning 12-6 over the Goulburn Valley Grammar School.
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The Tigers, coming off a comprehensive 16-0 win over Mooroopna in the semi-final, headed into the decider as the favourites, given their 3-1 record over the Grammarians across the regular season.
The Tigers, though, quickly found out anything could happen in the finals, as GVGS scored the game's first goal to put Benalla on the back foot.
However, it wasn't long before forwards Angus Woodward and Zander Gillies started finding their rhythm, each earning three goals, with Benalla heading into the break with a slender 6-4 lead.
Olly Gillies lines up for another shot on goal against GVGS.
GVGS fought hard after the break, mounting several attacks, but the defence of Caleb Gillies and goalkeeper Noah Gillies held firm.
The third of the Gillies brothers, Ollie, controlled the game and ended with four goals.
Jacinta Woodward sealed victory with a minute remaining, putting away a great Caleb Gillies pass.
The scoreline reflected the Tigers’ dominance on the field and is a testament to the team's play throughout the season, which resulted in them losing only one game.
The Under-16A team is all smiles after a 12-6 win against GVGS.
Benalla forward Angus Woodward was named the most valued player of the match.
Noah and Olly Gillies were also awarded for their performances at the Victorian Junior Country Championships for Goulburn Valley.
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