The England Hockey League Premier Division is gearing up for an action-packed Weekend 4, with clubs vying for early momentum in the season. Rod Gilmour from the Hockey Paper provides a sneak peek into the upcoming fixtures.
In the Men’s Premier Division, three clubs are battling it out for the top spot. Holcombe and Old Georgians, who are in Euro Hockey League action this weekend, currently hold the top spot with nine points from four matches. However, Hampstead & Westminster have a chance to claim the top position with a win against Oxted on Saturday.
Wimbledon, with their impressive nine goals in the first two games, will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to Old Georgians as they take on East Grinstead at home. East Grinstead, on the other hand, will be aiming to end their seven-match losing streak against Wimbledon at home.
Cardiff & Met, after their thrilling 4-4 draw at home, are set to face Beeston in what promises to be another exciting match. Both teams have had a similar start to the season, with a win, a loss, and a draw.
Southgate, with an identical record to Cardiff & Met, will be hosting Surbiton in a highly anticipated match. Surbiton has had the upper hand in their previous encounters, but Southgate will be eager to secure a victory.
The University of Nottingham will be facing Reading in their home encounter to wrap up Saturday’s fixtures. Both teams have had a tough start to the season, losing all three of their opening games.
In the Women’s Premier Division, Clifton Robinsons, Reading, and Bowdon are currently leading the table with a one-point advantage. Clifton Robinsons will be hosting the University of Birmingham, while Bowdon will be facing Loughborough University, hoping to replicate their previous double victory. Reading, on the other hand, will be on the road, facing the University of Nottingham.
Beeston will be looking to avoid a second successive defeat to a west country side as they travel to Isca & University of Exeter. Surbiton, last season’s runners-up, have a tough task ahead as they take on Hampstead & Westminster, who have a strong record against them.
It’s going to be an exciting weekend of hockey in the England Hockey League Premier Division. Stay tuned for some thrilling matches and unexpected results!