East Grinstead's big endurance test

East Grinstead go into European indoor competition this weekend representing England alongside the cream of club hockey.

They return to the indoor format of the game in the EuroHockey Indoor Club Champions Trophy in Vienna with confidence at a new high.

Taking on the French, Swedish and Scottish champions in their qualifying group, the Gladiators will be looking to reach Sunday's finals.

Even without the irrepressible strike force of Glenn Kirkham and Ashley Jackson - both on World Cup duties for England in Delhi - they remain positive.

Having won the National League Indoor title and National Championship two weeks ago, their indoor form has been outstanding this season.

Now they have to perform on the European stage, and their domestic success has secured them a place in Europe in 2011.

Much depends this weekend if they can win promotion to the next level of the competition.

"We raise the stakes now," said manager Matt Jones. "It's not everyday you get the opportunity to play at this level. We have worked hard for this and relish the chance to show what we can do."

Although missing two internationals, Grinstead have strength in depth throughout the squad, although Jones admits losing quality players remains an issue as the club v country conflicts emerge once more.

"It is very frustrating because they both contribute so much to the team. Our task at Grinstead is to develop players at an elite level, and for any club the goal is to be the best.

"England also have a job to do, and if clubs have to release players at times when they really need them to push for domestic or international club honours, then that has to happen," Jones added.

The management have been unable to track down any video footage of their weekend opponents, but Jones remains confident his squad will hold the upper hand.

Grinstead go into the weekend on the back of their first outdoor win since late October in the National League premier division.

The reigning champions took the scalp of second-placed Surbiton, winning 4-1 with goals from Ben Payne, Mark Pearn, Dave De Prez and Gareth Carr.

Grinstead are back to third in the table, albeit 11 points adrift of leaders Reading.

With play-off places deciding the champions this year, Grinstead have given themselves a four-point cushion over the chasing pack in the race for a top five finish.

"That was a very important win for us," said Jones. "It was a huge boost for our confidence and demonstrates what we are capable of.

"We created a good many chances and have taken lots of positives from the game, but all that is on hold as we return indoors this weekend. This is a massive few days for us," he added.

Grinstead take on Scottish champions Menzieshall on Friday morning and Lille in the afternoon.

On Saturday morning they face Partille before the final stages are played until Sunday afternoon.