Hockey: Young guns still firing for Bowdon

GEOFF PRICE scored twice in Bowdon's 4-0 win against Rotherham, a victory which took them to the top of the North Premier and on course for national league status. Steven Brogdon, 16, one of Angus Brogdon's three hockey-playing sons, also scored, as did Dave Egerton, son of Mike, another well-known Northern hockey player.

The newly-promoted premier side's youth policy is paying dividends. With five 16 to 17-year-olds in their side, the test will be in maintaining their momentum but, with veteran goalkeeper Howard Brown and player/manager Nick Clark in the squad, hopes are high. Clark, the former England and Southgate defender, joined the club this season as manager and has played in the last two matches.

In the Midlands DTZ Premier, Edgbaston - 1-0 winners against Khalsa - lead the way while in the East Premier, Peterborough Town, 4-1 winners at Bishop Stortford, lead Colchester on goal difference.

Fareham top the South Premier following their 6-0 rout of Purley Walcountians. Wimbledon came from behind to win 4-1 against Old Cran- leighans and remain one point ahead of a pack of nine. Maidenhead and Richmond's early season form deserted them, Maidenhead going down 2-1 at home to Herne Bay while Old Whitgiftians beat Richmond 1-0.