Top sides bringing out the big guns

AFTER playing out a 10-goal thriller last time out, Premier League top two sides OHA and North-West Graduates are gunning for another shootout at 1.30pm today.

The Ships have selected Will Smith and Pat Meaney with coach Daniel Sproule saying his side will continue to play its attacking brand at all costs.

“Sam McCambridge is in good form and it is pleasing to see the team making better decisions in the attacking circle,” Sproule said from Perth where he will check in with OHA legend Jeremy Edwards: “I’ll meet with Jeremy while I’m in Perth so I will know more about his plans pending Hockey Australia commitments.”

North-West Graduates welcome back James Bourke from a bronze medal effort in the California Cup event where he teamed up with Jamie Dwyer and Luke Doerner.

“Bourkey brings a touch of class and stability to our midfield and he also lifts our tempo across the park,” Grads coach Stephen McMullen said.

McMullen also said he did not expect to have Kookaburra Eddie Ockenden available this season as he and his partner await the birth of their first child.

The arrival of two big name English imports has bolstered Canterbury’s hopes against third-placed Derwent at 3pm.

Conor Caplan is a striker and penalty corner flicker that arrives from Exeter University having been capped at England U16 and U18 level. He is joined by Max Heaver, a defender from Reading Hockey Club.

Derwent will unveil its eighth debutant for the season in James Rawson after strong form at First Grade level.

University has recalled striker Will Mollross while DiamondBacks have regained Finn Bailey and Aron Flatten.