Hockey: Crutchley on top form

Hockey

BILL COLWILL

Bobby Crutchley, Cannock's discarded international striker, scored four times as they defeated Southgate 7-2. Cannock made light of the absence of four players and their manager and coach on Welsh duty to give notice of their intent to play all-out attacking hockey in their attempt to retain their National title.

Justin Pidcock claimed two goals and the stand-in player-coach David Mayer got the first goal to set them on their way after Southgate had taken an early lead with a Pietro Attala penalty.

Mahmood Bhatti, another player cast aside by England after just two short appearances, capitalised on the new no offside rule as he scored three times in East Grinstead's 5-0 win against Surbiton, the other goals coming from Ben Barnes and Alistair Boyce.

Reading's new recruit Manpreet Kochar scored in a 5-2 victory at Havant, and Great Britain's Phil McGuire scored both Teddington's goals in their 2-0 victory at Barford Tigers, who were missing their top striker, Dharminder Singh.

In the First Division, Beeston, who headed the League last season, are again setting the pace with a 5-0 win against Isca.

Results, Digest, page 27