By Tim Doutré
VICTORIAN Vikings’ dreams of claiming the Australian Hockey League title and end a 10-year grand final drought were dashed on Friday as the West Australian Thundersticks took out a close game 2-0.
In hot conditions in Canberra the two sides duked it out in a tough encounter.
Altona’s Luke Doerner had a penalty stroke saved and it proved to be a massive blow for the Vikings. Doerner had an impressive showing during the tournament scoring seven goals before the finals began, while fellow Altona resident Matthew Higgins was also strong. A play-off for third place with Tasmania saw the Vikings get up 3-1 for some conciliation.
The Thundersticks went on to defeat reigning champion Queensland 4-2.
Six wins and just one loss meant it was one of the most successful AHL campaigns in years for the Vikings. The tournament has been jam-packed with action as young and old hockey stars push for Olympic selection.
