Hockey: Firebrands to Formby

Simon Mason, the Firebrands captain, was none too pleased with the thought of the long trip to Formby, currently third in the Northern Regional League, for the fifth round of the HA Cup, writes Bill Colwill.

Formby, who have battled through from the first round, disposed of Slough from the First Division of the National League, and will be no easy opponents at home. "We were hoping for a home draw," said Mason, "but nevertheless should win. We must now consider whether to seek a postponement as I will be in India at the time with England."

the three all-First Division ties - Cannock v Reading, Teddington v Havant and Stourport v Southgate -are likely to be postponed due to players being away with the England squad.

The two other surviving non-National League clubs have been drawn away. Warwick travel to Guildford and Spencer take on Isca, in Exeter.