Saxons through to Plate final

It was a good victory over a team that often causes Saxons problems and it sets up a rematch of last year’s final against another South Hockey League Sussex Area - Division One side in Penguin.

Penguin were victorious last year and Saxons captain Paddy Cornish is keen for revenge when the sides meet at East Grinstead on Saturday April 27.

“Not only do we want to complete a league and cup double, we want to make up for the loss last year too,” said Cornish. “There are usually three or four different finals played on the day, so with hundreds of people there is often a great atmosphere. We’re hoping a few club members will come along and support us, and we’re looking forward to a good day of hockey.”

Saxons sealed their place with ease. Tudor Stainsby put them ahead and George Eldridge doubled their advantage before half time. Jamie Busbridge then added a third, but Hailsham pulled one back to give themselves hope.

A lack of discipline cost them, though, as two players were yellow carded and sin-binned, and Saxons took advantage as Busbridge notched a fourth. The already crowned league champions will complete their league programme away to third-placed Crowborough on Saturday.

Saxons: Wedmore, Cload, Orr, Ford, Reed, Eldridge, Cornish, Coombs, Stainsby, Busbridge, Buss, Whitehouse, Reece.