Hockey: Cardiff aiming to take on English

Mar 26 2008

CARDIFF will finally get the chance soon to bid for a place in the Slazenger English League.

They were denied the opportunity last season on a technicality after winning the Wales and South West title. But this year, after another triumph in the championship, they are all set for the play-offs. The capital city club secured the crown with a convincing 5-0 victory over Swansea Bay, who now face relegation.

They will open their play-off challenge against Durham University on April 20 and then they’ll visit Fareham a week later with the final three matches being over the period of May 3-5. On recent form, a place in the English League looks on the cards.

Meanwhile, Whitchurch won their fourth Slazenger match on the bounce beating Indian Gymkhana 2-1 after dominating possession for long periods.

Against the run of play, Indian Gymkhana took the lead on 32 minutes through an open play goal by Jashpal Jutia.

But Whitchurch levelled matters, Doug Young firing home after a good incisive build up on the left flank. It was deadly striker Laith El Khatib who grabbed the winner ten minutes from time.

Whitchurch visit Oxted on Saturday for their next league match and wrap up their programme on Sunday April 6 by entertaining leaders Exeter University.