Mackey returns for Ships

THE return of Tassie Tigers star Kurt Mackey has boosted OHA’s hopes of earning direct qualification into the men’s Premier League big dance after a serious shoulder injury.

Out for two months, Mackey returned to training during the week and Ships coach Nick Leslie revealed he is likely to face North-West Graduates in their first semifinal at 4.30pm.

“It’s great to have him back and everyone is really happy that he can be part of our finals campaign,” Leslie said.

“He will play through the middle, so I expect him to pick up right where he left off.

“Direct entry into the grand final would be the ideal scenario because a week’s rest can make a lot of difference.”

Graduates coach Stephen McMullen admits the return of Mackey is a huge inclusion for the minor premiers.

“He’s an exceptional player who has an impact in the midfield, and we have had a good contest with OHA this year and this will be in a similar vein,” McMullen said.

“A win for us would be fantastic and would allow us to focus on the final and have a good look at our opposition.”

But as for who will start as favourites, Leslie was keen to deflect to his opposition given they took the honours in their most recent encounter.

“The underdog role suits us just fine as we were written off last season but had the belief that our best hockey stacks up against anyone,” he said.

Derwent and University will meet in the second semifinal at 3pm in a repeat of last year’s clash that saw the Students emerge from a penalty shootout.

Experienced pair Torin Bester (Derwent) and Thabang Dikgale (Uni) are expected to both be given until the last minute to prove their fitness.