The relationship between Whakatāne High School and Trident High School may be a close one but competition on the sporting arena sees both schools regularly battling for top honours across a range of sports.

Last week, that rivalry was renewed on the hockey turf as the two girls' teams met in the Bay of Plenty A Grade final, producing another closely contested encounter.

Leading the Trident side was coach Gavin Rothwell, who has been pleased with his team's progress throughout the season.

“The girls have done well this season, continuing their unbeaten run. Their last loss was to Whakatāne High School at the 2024 Jenny Hair Cup Winter Tournament semi-final, so they've been very consistent since then,” he said.

Rothwell described the final as an evenly matched contest that showcased the quality of hockey being played by both sides.

“The game itself was very even. Although there were no real goal-scoring opportunities, the large crowd was well entertained by the high standard of hockey delivered by both teams. Unfortunately, there has to be a winner and this time it was Whakatāne High, who fell short at this exact stage last year.”

Despite the defeat, Rothwell praised several standout performers.

Keeley Rothwell impressed through the midfield with her tireless work rate and defensive efforts, while Tylah Bateson produced another strong defensive display. Rothwell was quick to add that every member of the team contributed to the performance.

Whakatāne High School coach Aaron Box said the victory was hard-earned, with the final marking the third meeting between the schools this season.

“Trident won our pre-season friendly, while the first-round competition match ended in a draw, setting up a local derby in the Secondary Girls Bay of Plenty A Grade final,” said Box.

“We were really strong defensively, and our ability to deny Trident any genuine goal-scoring opportunities was the key to getting through.”

Both teams created quality passages of play through the midfield, but neither could find a breakthrough during regulation time, leaving the match locked at 0-0.

The championship was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout, where Whakatāne High School held its nerve to secure a 3-1 victory.

Goalkeeper Esther Pearce proved the difference, producing several crucial saves during the shootout. Madie Carter anchored the defence with composure and effective distribution, while Jorji Dunstan worked tirelessly through the midfield and attack, forcing turnovers and driving her side forward whenever opportunities arose.

The closely fought encounter provides both teams with valuable preparation ahead of the opening round of the Intercity competition this week when Trident High School hosted Bethlehem College, while Whakatāne High School travelled to face Mount Maunganui College at Blake Park.