YOUNGSTERS’ ABSENCE FELT

UNCERTAINTY reigns over round 16 of the men’s Premier League hockey, with Tasmania’s U21 team playing in Western Australia affecting squad line-ups.

In a replay of last year’s grand final, OHA will go searching for much-needed points against Derwent from noon for the John Harris Cup.

The Ships occupy fifth place on the ladder after an inconsistent season and attacker Oliver Smith says their focus is firmly on grabbing points to determine their own destiny.

“These last five games are massive for us,” he said.

“We don’t want to rely on other results in round 20 but we want to ensure we earn that top four spot on our own merits.

“With Jaxon Sproule, Sam Keating and Rhys Wilkinson returning, it’s also a big game for Joe Murphy and James Thomas from the set piece.”

OHA will hope to exploit Derwent missing goalkeeper Magnus McCausland, who has starred in the opening two U21 matches, with the Strikers also missing Ruben Hoey.

“We’re blessed with a strong squad, with both younger and older players pushing for selection every week,” Derwent’s Vaughn Bowen said.

“So it’s a good chance for them to try and cement a spot within the team.”

Canterbury and North-West

Graduates will be seeking to return to the winner’s circle, with the Lions missing five Tasmanian U21 representatives for the 3pm clash.

Graduates gave up a 2-0 advantage to fall 3-2 to DiamondBacks and victory on Saturday would put them in the box seat to play finals hockey.

The clash between DiamondBacks and University has been postponed until Friday, July 29, from 8pm, with the Maroons aiming to snatch their third win on the trot.

In Perth, Tasmania’s U21 men have finished second in Pool A thanks to four goals from Tyler McDonald and two starring performances in goal from Magnus McCausland.