The Open Men's Indoor Hockey State Championships wrapped up at Veolia Arena on Sunday with two cracking grand finals.
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Though both Goulburn teams made it through to the final day, neither were able to progress and fell to eventual finalists.
The Division One final was played at 12.10pm between Metro South West 1 (who defeated Goulburn 6-4 in the semi-final) and Illawarra South Coast 1, and it fully lived up to expectations.
There was little to split the two teams for most of the match. The first half ended with the score tied at 2-2, and though Metro South West scored soon after the break, Illawarra returned the favour within minutes.
At 3-3, the match looked destined for a penalty shootout, but in the final seconds of the game, the referee awarded Illawarra a controversial penalty corner.
The Metro South West players argued against the ruling, but to little avail.
From that point, the result almost felt inevitable. Ilawarra scored, and rapturous celebrations ensued.
"[The tournament has] gone fantastic," tournament director Chris Donnelly said.
"The Division Two final, also a fantastic game, and then this final was phenomenal.
"It's been a really consistent tournament across both divisions, really strong competition in both pools. Last year was a fantastic year for most of these teams and the strength carried on really."
The Division One final was preceded by the Division Two final, which was just as gripping.
The match featured Orange (who defeated Goulburn) and Hockey New England, and was also decided in the last minute.
Though this time, the match was decided on less acrimonious terms, in favour of Orange, 4-3.
During the presentation ceremony, Goulburn mayor Bob Kirk was present and addressed the crowd.
"Good to see so many people stay for this very good final," Cr Kirk said.
"I hope that you all did have a good time here in Goulburn over the weekend, we're getting used to hosting indoor championships here and I hope it continues for a long time."
This weekend will see the Open Women's Indoor State Championships take place in Goulburn, over November 22 to 24.
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