Hockey: Hounslow in need of points

FOR HOUNSLOW, this weekend's double Premier League fixtures are probably the most crucial in the club's long and distinguished history. Defeat at home last weekend by Bournville leaves them three points adrift of the Midland club in the relegation play-off position. Points from today's away game at Reading and the visit of Guildford tomorrow are badly needed.

The manager, Paul King, confirmed that the Seoul gold medallist, Jon Potter, who has come out of retirement to help the club, will be playing both days and that the Canadian goalkeeper Hari Kant is back from international duty in Egypt.

King said: "Let's hope the tide has changed. Points will be difficult at Reading and anything will be a bonus. It is essential we take three off Guildford." With Guildford's player-coach, Ian Jennings, looking for two more goals to become the first player to score 200 in league games, it will not be easy. Southgate, who lost 5-2 to Reading last week, visit Guildford today and entertain East Grinstead tomorrow. They again expect to be without their latest signing, the Australian international Max Diamond.

Surbiton, the new First Division leaders, will be looking for victory over Hampststead and Westminster before their South African imports return home for internationals against Australia.