College Hockey: Division One
Worcester are dominant once more - stylish interplay and strength in depth has produced an almost unassailable outfit. Surprisingly, though, Univ. (a very mid-table side last season) are close behind. However, their hardest opposition is still to come.
St. Peter's/Hertford are another surprise team. Having only just managed to avoid relegation last season, a host of new talent, including prolific ex-St. Catz striker James Lawton, has led to some tremendous results. "But, having played a game more than everybody else, we will have to sort out problems of inconsistency" said their vice-captain Chris North.
The same goes for Teddy Hall - a stylish outfit on their day, but prone to lapses of concentration. At the other end of the table, it is a real surprise to see Magdalen in the relegation zone. Piers Cox, their mercurial captain struggles to get eleven players out - a sad reflection of their former brilliance. The same goes for Queen's who seem to rely too much on the silky skills of sweeper, Richard Stuckey. At their worst, they seem to be practically a one man team.
'Nil points' St. Catherine's hardly deserve to be propping up the division. After a range of plucky performances, they seem destined to return to Division 2, unless they can make use of their game in hand. The season seems to be heading towards an exciting climax with some exhilarating hockey ahead.
31st Jan 2002