Grads keen to clinch top spot
NORTH-WEST Graduates can sew up the men’s Premier League hockey minor premiership with victory against second-placed Derwent from 4pm on Saturday, with Aiden van Staden returning for the Bulldogs.
Coach Stephen McMullen says his focus is solely on performing on grand final day, but some early silverware against the defending champions would be well received by the Bulldogs.
“I feel our squad is much better placed than same time last year,” McMullen said. “This time last year we had three players carrying significant injuries and were struggling to get the numbers every week. This year, we have a deep squad to choose from and they have worked hard and are all fit.”
Derwent secured a last gasp 4-3 win against OHA last weekend and despite losing midfielder Stuart Webb to a recurring hamstring injury, coach Nathan Fitzpatrick felt the side regained its playing identity.
Victory over Graduates would see the Strikers move level with their opponents on points and confirm a top two finish. “Last week was vital in making steps towards finishing Fitzpatrick said.
“We aren’t scoring as freely as we were last year and this is something that we have been looking to rectify.
“Because on average we are minus 1.2 on goals scored per game compared to last season.”
Canterbury will go in search of an upset against OHA from 1pm, with Will Lawler out of quarantine and keen to make an impact.
University will hope to avenge some mental demons when it tackles round six nemesis DiamondBacks from 2.30pm. top two,”