EHL Hockey League Finals & Playoffs Preview Round 2

As the Vitality Women's Hockey League enters another thrilling matchday, fans can expect some intense battles and high-stakes encounters in both Pool A and Pool B, as well as two captivating playoff games. Let's dive into the upcoming fixtures and the intriguing stats that add depth to these matchups.

Pool A

Beeston vs Surbiton at Nottingham Hockey Centre

In a crucial Pool A clash, Beeston will be hosting Surbiton at the Nottingham Hockey Centre. Having lost twice to Surbiton already this season, Beeston will be hungry for revenge. Their top goal scorer Lauren Burrell, with 9 goals to her name, will be a key player in their bid to turn the tables. Surbiton, on the other hand, will be looking to maintain their dominance and secure another victory.

East Grinstead vs University of Birmingham at Saint Hill

East Grinstead will take on the University of Birmingham at the picturesque Saint Hill. These two sides last met on the opening day of the season, with East Grinstead emerging victorious with a 2-1 win. Both teams will be eager to showcase their progress since then, making this match an enticing affair with bragging rights on the line.

Pool B

Clifton Robinsons vs Wimbledon at Coombe Dingle

Clifton Robinsons will face Wimbledon at Coombe Dingle in a pivotal Pool B encounter. With just one win in their last eight matches, Clifton Robinsons, who relied on early season form to qualify for the League Finals, knows that a win for either side will guarantee a spot in the Finals Weekend. Expect both teams to put their best foot forward in this high-pressure match.

Hampstead & Westminster vs University of Nottingham at Paddington Recreation Ground

Hampstead & Westminster will be looking to bounce back from two consecutive defeats as they host the University of Nottingham at the historic Paddington Recreation Ground. With both teams desperate for points, fans can anticipate a fiercely contested battle as they vie for a much-needed victory.

Playoffs

Reading vs Buckingham at Sonning Lane

In the first playoff match, Reading will host the recently relegated Buckingham at Sonning Lane. Buckingham will be looking to repeat the victory they achieved when the two sides last met, with Lottie Porter playing a key role. Expect a spirited performance from Buckingham as they aim to finish their season on a high note.

Holcombe vs Loughborough Students at Holcombe Park

In a do-or-die encounter, Holcombe will face Loughborough Students at Holcombe Park. Fighting for their lives at the bottom of the table, Holcombe must win to stay in the survival battle. Defender Emma Bandurak will be a key player for Holcombe as they strive to secure a vital victory and keep their hopes alive.

As we gear up for another exciting weekend of hockey, fans can expect closely-fought battles, potential upsets, and high-quality action across the Vitality Women's Hockey League. Stay tuned as the drama unfolds on the pitch.

Pool A

Holcombe vs Beeston at Holcombe Park

The weekend kicks off with a tantalizing contest between Holcombe and Beeston at Holcombe Park. The two sides shared the spoils in a thrilling 3-3 draw last time they met, and both will be eager to secure a victory this time around. Holcombe, currently sitting second in Pool A, will be looking to secure their finals weekend place with a win, while Beeston aims to maintain their recent run of form. Key players to watch in this encounter include Holcombe's goal-scoring machine Nick Bandurak and Beeston's influential captain Chris Griffiths.

Hampstead & Westminster vs Old Georgians at Paddington Recreation Ground

In another enthralling Pool A fixture, Hampstead & Westminster will be hosting Old Georgians at the historic Paddington Recreation Ground. Interestingly, Hampstead & Westminster are the only side to take points from Old Georgians this season, so this match promises to be a nail-biter. Hampstead & Westminster will be looking to rebound from a disappointing loss in their previous game, while Old Georgians will want to continue their upward trajectory after a string of impressive performances. Keep an eye on Hampstead & Westminster's top goal scorer Sam French, as well as Old Georgians' captain James Albery, who has been instrumental in his team's defensive solidity.

Pool B

Reading vs Surbiton at Sonning Lane

Over in Pool B, Reading will face the formidable Surbiton at Sonning Lane. With both teams jostling for valuable points in the standings, this match promises to be a captivating encounter. A win for Surbiton will see them equal their longest winning streak of the season, adding extra motivation for them to secure victory. Reading's prolific scorer Fred Newbold will need to be on top of his game to breach Surbiton's watertight defence, led by the experienced Luke Taylor. Expect a tight, tactical battle as both teams look to gain the upper hand.

Wimbledon vs Oxted at Raynes Park

Wimbledon takes on Oxted in a crucial clash at Raynes Park. Oxted, with just one loss in their last six matches, will be looking to avenge the 6-1 defeat they suffered against Wimbledon in November. With both teams desperate for points to stay in contention for the League Finals Weekend, anticipate a high-octane encounter as they fight tooth and nail for victory. Wimbledon's seasoned striker Ed Horler will be a key figure in their attack, while Oxted's goalkeeper SAm Williams will be under the spotlight to keep Wimbledon's forwards at bay.

Playoffs

University of Exeter vs Brooklands Manchester University at Exeter University

In the first playoff fixture, the University of Exeter will face Brooklands Manchester University in a battle of the university teams. It's a must-win match for Exeter, as after two 2-2 draws, anything other than a win could see them relegated. Home advantage could play a vital role for Exeter as they seek to capitalize on the support of their local fans. Exeter's Louis Ridge and Brooklands' Peter Flanagan are two standout players.

University of Nottingham vs East Grinstead at Nottingham Hockey Centre

Lastly, the University of Nottingham will go head-to-head with East Grinstead at the Nottingham Hockey Centre. With both teams eager to progress in the playoffs, the stakes are high in this do-or-die fixture. Keep an eye on University of Nottingham's Charlie Axford, who has been in sensational form, and East Grinstead's Captain, Simon Faulkner, who brings years of experience and match-winning ability to his side.

All in all, an enthralling weekend of hockey lies ahead, with fascinating battles and potential upsets on the horizon.