NOW: Pensions Men's Hockey League previews, Feb 22-23 2014
20th February 2014AFTER having beaten leaders Beeston last weekend, Surbiton will be aiming for a similar result when they take on second-placed Reading in the NOW: Pensions Men’s Hockey League Premier Division on Sunday.
Currently fourth in the table, Surbiton have not lost a match in any competition since October and will be aiming to cement their spot in the play-off positions at Sonning Lane on Sunday (14:30 start).
The two sides drew 1-1 when they met at Surbiton back in November, and manager James Lloyd said: “As ever we’re taking each game as it comes and not particularly looking at any winning runs. Anything can happen and there’s a lot of good teams in the running.
“Last time we played Reading it was a good game and both teams had some good chances so a draw was probably fair. Both ourselves and Reading have improved since then, so it should be a great match.”
Sunday also sees leaders Beeston take on bottom of the table Sheffield Hallam, who will be desperate for the points to stave off relegation.
The Yorkshire side have a game in hand following the postponement of their clash at Hampstead and Westminster a fortnight ago, and the replay is this Saturday – at Sheffield.
Following Saturday’s re-arranged clash in Sheffield, Hampstead and Westminster are on the road again on Sunday, facing Cannock.
Third-placed East Grinstead head to Loughborough Students as they bid to maintain their play-off push, while Wimbledon and Canterbury – fifth and sixth in the table – face each other.
In the NOW: Pensions Conference West, leaders Indian Gymkhana face a tough test at third-placed Cardiff & Met, while Team Bath Buccaneers could go top if they beat University of Birmingham and their rivals lose.
Brooklands Manchester University head to Deeside Ramblers as they aim to maintain top spot in the NOW: Pensions Conference North, while second-placed Bowdon entertain Wakefield.
And in the NOW: Pensions Conference East leaders Holcombe head to third-placed Old Loughtonians, while Southgate could go top if they win at home against St Albans.
League Finals Weekend
The winners of the NOW: Pensions Men’s Hockey League and the Investec Women’s Hockey League will be crowned over two action-packed weekends at Reading Hockey Club in April. The top four Premier Division teams qualify for their respective finals weekends, laying off against each other to be crowned league champions.
The men’s finals will take place on the 5-6 April while the women will battle it out a week later from 12-13 April. Tickets are now available to purchase for both weekends