Olton banking on Hambley

Hockey

Olton and Old Loughtonians are the only two teams with maximum points as the Women's National League resumes tomorrow after a two-week break, writes Bill Colwill.

Olton, promoted this season, are three points clear of Wimbledon at the top of the First Division but have a tough away game at Chelmsford. They have some doubts about the fitness of the former England and Great Britain captain Barbara Hambley for the visit.

Olton went down 1-0 to Sutton Canada Life on Thursday and coach Gavin Featherstone, who felt his young side lacked direction without the experienced Hambley, will be hoping for a swift recovery to her hamstring trouble.

Old Loughtonians, in their first season in the National League, have made an excellent start - two points ahead of Loughborough Students after just four games. The team is, like Olton's, built on experience and youth.

The Premier leaders Slough travel to Cannock to play Sutton, still without the injured Anna Bennett and Lucy Cope. In addition, Sally Eyre and Lisa Copeland will be missing for this game and they are still without news from their Irish international Sarah Kelleher.