There's been little to separate Dubbo and Parkes during the Western Masters League so a tense encounter is expected in Sunday's grand final.
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The top two teams in the competition will meet at Pioneer Park on Sunday after what has already been a successful season.
Parkes finished as minor premiers but was made to work a place in the decider during a 2-1 semi-final against Lithgow last weekend but there were no such struggles for Dubbo, which scored a resounding 5-1 win over Orange.
"We started a bit nervous because all we wanted was the home grand final but the game was really good," Dubbo's Tracey Hardie-Jones said of the semi-final.
"There was some good hockey in it and Orange really tried the whole game.
"We're very, very even. We only finished one point behind Parkes. Last time we played them we were up 1-0- but then got beat so we're very close.
"It could go either way but after our game last weekend and watching Parkes play, I think we might have the edge.
"You've got to be confident but it will be a tough tussle."
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As much as Hardie-Jones and her teammates want to claim title glory on Sunday, just being a part of the competition this year and having the chance to play has been something special.
The COVID lockdown impacted all sport this year but the Masters competition was able to get back into the swing of things.
The league has been part of an exciting time in Dubbo hockey, with Hardie-Jones as president and other committee members working to build the profile's sport in the city.
"Everyone is just excited to be back playing sport after COVID," Hardie-Jones said.
"It (Masters League) has been something we've been trying to get going for the past five years and it's exciting we've got so many interested in playing because it gives you that extra bit of sport and you can play for longer. There's more happening than just regular competition."
Last weekend's semi-final performance was an example of the quality the Dubbo side has shown regularly this season.
Mel Wheatley scored a hat-trick in the semi-final victory but Hardie-Jones said the side is about much more than individual efforts.
"It's amazing how everyone has been very conscious of being involved in training and playing, and I think that's brought the best out of everyone," Hardie-Jones said.
"I think everyone has put something into the team and everyone in on the same playing field. Everybody knows there's a is a squad and they're playing for their position so they've put their best foot forward.
"I don't think you could say anyone is a standout."
The action starts at 12pm, Sunday at Pioneer Park.
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Nick Guthrie
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
