Season fortunes hang on vital match

UNIVERSITY and Derwent face a watershed moment in their Premier League seasons when they clash at 4.30pm today.

Victory for either side will rubber-stamp their premiership credentials, while a loss could see them drift outside the top four altogether.

The Students welcome back Simon Clifford to their backline and coach Paul Ancher is not underestimating the Strikers despite two heavy losses in a row. “It’ll be vitally important to start with some real purpose and intensity against a Derwent side no doubt looking to rectify some poor results,” Ancher said.

“It was only three weeks ago that Derwent put OHA to the sword and we’re well aware that they’re a quality outfit that will require us to be at our best to get back on the winners’ list.”

The match will be officiated by international umpire Steve Rogers in a Premier League initiative that is being seen as an example of being proactive in developing the level of officiating the local game.

The Strikers have selected Henry Curtis, Denver James and Dougal Middleton as they start to get closer to their strongest side.

“Our last two results have certainly been disappointing but we have been severely undermanned with injuries, una- vailability and suspensions so getting these three back will help our squad,” Derwent captain Nick Tremayne said.

“Our penalty corner attack has been very ordinary and despite the last two results Vaughn Bowen has been in great form, while Ewan Vickery and Linden McCarthy have shown they have big futures.

“It’s a big weekend for our team because we need to pick up points to stay in touch with the pack.”

OHA coach Daniel Sproule is wary of DiamondBacks pair Hayden Beltz and Jack Welch as his side prepares to extend their advantage on top of the ladder. DiamondBacks coach Nicole Geeves has recalled goalie Grant Woodcock and defenders Doug Shepherd and Finn Bailey.

North-West Graduates want to consolidate second position with victory against bottom club Canterbury for their 3pm match.