Graduates cruise past Students in classy win

NORTH-WEST Graduates barely got out of second gear to claim a 4-2 defeat of University in the penultimate round of men’s Premier League fixtures.

The depleted Students could walk away with plenty of positives, not least the performances of young pair Sam Payne and Ashby Bingham, but they were no match for the premiership favourites.

Veteran striker Marcus Richardson turned back the clock, scoring two goals, in the perfect tune-up for next weekend’s first-grade grand final against Derwent.

Tyson Bessell capped victory late in the final quarter with a neat goal to snuff out a late rally from the Students.

University struck in the final term through Paul Ancher’s deflected finish and Ben Read’s penalty corner flick.

Graduates midfielder Gobindraj Gill said despite some lapses he was happy with the way his side dictated terms.

“Our boys controlled the game from the get-go and it was evident that University lacked depth without Josh Brooks and Tyler McDonald,” Gill said. “Although we had a bit of a lapse in patches, we’re happy with the 4-2 win and are looking forward to a battle next week with Canterbury.”

After repeated fade-outs in grand finals in recent times brought on by player injuries, Gill said his body was in good condition this time around.

“I’ve been paying a lot more attention to how much I’m doing and my recovery,” he said.

With first-grade to fifthgrade grand finals next Saturday, all Premier League final roster matches will be played on Sunday.