Hockey club back in the swing

Maids only beat the drop in March with a final day victory over South Bucks but a busy summer has seen them recruit five new players to bolster last season’s squad.

Sood strongly believes that his side have what it takes to improve on last season’s finish and even push for promotion.

He said: “I’m really excited about the new season, a top three place is definitely the aim, and I strongly believe we are capable of achieving that.
“I look back at last season as one of consolidation, with new players, a new coach and a new set-up - that experience gained individually and collectively last season is going to be invaluable in helping us to achieve our aim.

“We’ve retained most of last season’s squad and have added five players in the summer so we’re looking strong throughout the squad.”

Maids host the former National league giants Slough at Altwood (2pm start), and Sood is under no illusions as to the size of the task facing his side.
He added: “We couldn’t have asked for a tougher test for our first league game than Slough. We know them well, there is no doubt it will be a lively game.

“It’s a local derby, but we’ve got home advantage, and I know we have what it takes to come away with at least a point.”

Maids completed their pre-season programme on Saturday with a 2-0 defeat to Reading 3rds.