![Kchock190521 019](/content/images/placeholder/lazyload/landscape.GquaKA.gif)
New coach, Niall Denham
Under the tutelage of new coach, Niall Denham, the boys entered the match coming off of two convincing wins over Macleans College (9-0) and Pukekohe High School (6-3) to kick off the season.
The teams saw a very even first half, with King's having the greater share of circle entries. A penalty corner on the 20th minute saw Grammar take a one-point lead through the rest of the half, however.
The second half began with King's playing their best hockey yet, controlling possession and again having numerous circle entries.
![Kchock190521 008](/content/images/placeholder/lazyload/landscape.GquaKA.gif)
However, Grammar capitalised on the chances they created and scored an additional two goals nearing the end of the match, winning 3-0 and successfully defending the shield for another year.
Despite the unfavourable result, manager Mark Johnston notes that it was a "good test as to where the team is at and a learning experience for a lot of players", boding well for the rest of the hockey season.