HOCKEY
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TOMORROW’S second round of the Orange Men’s Hockey Association John Davis Motors Hockey Superleague is set to unveil the serious title contenders.
The Renault Royals lead the competition on goal difference from the second-placed Mazda Maulers, with the Volvo Vikings and Suzuki Strikers in third and fourth respectively, with all four sides playing three games so far.
With that, and form from the opening round in mind, competition architect and Vikings star Scott Baker said his side and the Strikers would have a big job ahead of them to rein in the top two teams.
“The Royals and Maulers could potentially build a bit of a lead up this weekend, I really wouldn’t be surprised if one of those sides wins all three of its games [tomorrow],” Baker explained.
“There’s some changes going through some of the squads, but the Royals have kept their entire squad from round one together, and don’t need any fill-ins, which gives them more of a chance to gel.
“From the opening round they look to be the top two sides.”
However, Baker did nominate two changes that could have a big impact on the competition, with the Strikers welcoming two new additions for tomorrow’s second round.
Considering the Strikers only won one game in round one, the addition of Jayden Watson and NSW representative Hayden Dillon couldn’t come at a better time.
Despite the fact the latter comes in to replace unavailable skipper Alex Said, the pair adds vital experience as the side looks to put some pressure on the Royals and Maulers.
Appropriately, the somewhat new-look Strikers team will clash with the table-topping Royals in tomorrow’s opening game, at 12.40pm.
The opening round two weeks ago was a roaring success, Baker said, and the powers that be were continuing their bid to improve the tournament with each round.
“We sent out a survey afterward and the feedback we got was great, from everyone,” he said.
“Everyone is absolutely champing at the bit to get back out there [tomorrow].”
Tomorrow’s second round kicks off at 12.40pm, with games all the way through until 4.40pm.
