Halls leads St Albans' challenge

Except for the Premier Divisions, the men and women's National Leagues are in action this weekend where the interest will centre on a number of new player/coaches. Julian Halls and David Hacker, back from the Olympics, will be in action for their new clubs in the Second Division. For Halls it will be a busy weekend. Today he will be on the bench with St Albans Ladies for their home game against Poynton and will then be in the men's line-up tomorrow at Bromley.

Except for the Premier Divisions, the men and women's National Leagues are in action this weekend where the interest will centre on a number of new player/coaches. Julian Halls and David Hacker, back from the Olympics, will be in action for their new clubs in the Second Division. For Halls it will be a busy weekend. Today he will be on the bench with St Albans Ladies for their home game against Poynton and will then be in the men's line-up tomorrow at Bromley.

Hacker, a crucial figure in Canterbury's Premier Division success last season, will make his debut for Firebrands away to Oxford University.

Beeston, looking to bounce back first time to the Premier Division, face stout opposition from the youthful Chelmsford squad at the Boots HC ground tomorrow. The Essex club will field no fewer than eight players under 21 in the squad. They will again be coached by South African Craig Fulton.

Former Premier Division clubs Doncaster and Stourport do battle at Bennetthorpe while Doncaster's women, taking on Trojans this afternoon, will be lifted by the arrival of Welsh international Janelle Lowe and the return of goalkeeper Val Hallam.