The former “steel city” played its role in helping the NSW Pride men’s team return to the Hockey One League winner’s list.

Buoyed by a Blake Govers hat-trick, the state outfit toppled defending champions HC Melbourne 4-2 at a packed Newcastle International Hockey Centre on Friday night.

It enabled the side to get its season back on track, too, ironically during Pride Round no less.

Meanwhile, the women continued their perfect campaign with a 3-0 win against the Victorians.

NSW welcomed debutant goalkeeper Tegan Neowhouse, 23, to replace the injured Grace Jeffrey (broken hand).

But, any concerns proved to be misplaced, as she made a string of early saves and finished the match with a clean sheet.

The deadlock was broken after 10 minutes when Jenna-Rae McIntyre forced home a scrappy go

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