MEN'S HOCKEY: Promotion in sight for North Wilts (From Swindon Advertiser)

MEN'S HOCKEY: Promotion in sight for North Wilts

6:00am Thursday 14th February 2013 in Sport By Ned Payne

LEAGUE leaders North Wilts could be just one weekend away from securing promotion out of East Central 1 after defeating third-placed City of Bath A 1-0.

Hosts North Wilts wasted a number of good opportunities early on, but the side was playing well and a strong defensive performance from skipper Tom Wilson galvanised his teammates.

Chris Blow in particular produced a string of excellent tackles, preventing opportunities and putting his body on the line on a number of occasions.

The decisive goal came midway through the first half, when Jim Towers danced away from two players before finding Cameron Young on the right. Young drove towards the circle and picked out Damo Holland, who finished confidently.

North Wilts continued to pile on the pressure and created numerous good chances, but failed to convert.

Man of the match Darren Hillier was a constant thorn in the opposition’s side, setting up opportunities for both Max Bartholomew and Holland to add to the tally.

However, the score remained 1-0 and North Wilts will look to secure promotion this weekend.

In Premier Division 2A, Swindon’s relegation worries deepened after they were thrashed 7-0 by visitors Exeter Uni B.

With a weakened side, Swindon were on the back foot from the start and were 3-0 down by half-time.

After the break Chris Parsons moved into defence and Matt Kenyon switched to midfield, but the changes did not result in improved fortunes.

They conceded another four goals and recorded one of their worst defeats of the season.

In Central 2, Wootton Bassett notched up a narrow 1-0 victory over Marlborough A.

North Wilts A played two games at the weekend, drawing 3-3 at Devizes B and losing 3-0 to Bath Buccs G.

Missing regular stopper Emmerson, North Wilts went a goal down early on before Kiran Momi equalised.

When Devizes failed to clear their lines, George Bull capitalised to make it 2-1 and the same man then extended the lead further.

However, two defensive errors allowed Devizes to score two goals and grab a draw.

On Sunday against Bath Buccs G, North Wilts went a goal down late in the first half and Bath added two more after the break.

The match finished early due to a head injury suffered by a Bath player.