Ipswich to give Sutton severe test in the cup

Hockey

BILL COLWILL

Sutton Canada Life, leaders in the Premier Division of the National League, face a tough challenge as a result of yesterday's third-round draw of the AEWHA Cup, having to make the journey to Ipswich on 3 December probably minus their three Great Britain players, writes Bill Colwill.

Assuming Britain win a place at the Olympics from the qualifiers starting in Cape Town next week, the coach, Sue Slocombe, has ordered rest on their return until 1 January. When the teams met in the fifth round two years ago Sutton won 4-1.

The only other Premier Division game is the meeting of the two bottom clubs, Doncaster having to make the long journey to Bracknell. The Cup holders Hightown entertain Southampton while the defeated finalists, Trojans, travel to Cheshire to play Poynton. Both should progress. Premier Division Slough, another club who will be missing three players, visit Second Division Sherwood.

Justine Curgenven celebrated her birthday with two goals for Cambridge University in their 3 -1 win at Dereham in the last round. The students, who enter the third round for the first time, will be reasonably content with their visit to Camberley and should make further headway.