Hockey: Potter call to rescue Hounslow

THE DESTINY of two of England's senior clubs currently fallen on difficult times could rest in the the hands of two Seoul Olympic gold medallists. Do not be surprised if a third, Hounslow's Jon Potter, does not once again respond favourably to the cry for help.

East Grinstead, Hounslow and Havant, who between them provided seven gold medallists, are now struggling - all three relegated from the Premier League. Richard Leman, Britain's inside left in Seoul, returned to League hockey last weekend at 40 and as sweeper played a significant part in East Grinstead's first win of the season when they beat Indian Gymkhana 3-2.

Today Grinstead meet Hounslow for the first time since the two clubs were relegated, and have again dug deep into the past, recalling their former ace goal poachers, Dutchman Bram Van Asselt and Richard Organ, both nearing their forties. David Faulkner is the third Olympian who has taken over as Director of Coaching at Havant and is captaining their second eleven.

Back in the Premier, leaders Reading travel to Canterbury, managed by Britain's Seoul goal hero, Sean Kerly, while Guildford entertain last season's champions Cannock, who are just beginning to return to form.