East Grinstead on the verge of promotion

EAST Grinstead Ladies are just one win away from securing league victory and promotion into the South League.

Grinstead's recent victories over Brighton II and Chichester II, both by 4-0, took their Sussex League premier division goal tally to 108 for the season.

They now have to win one of their remaining two league matches – against either Worthing or Horsham III – to secure promotion.

Felicity Cremin was on form in front of goal in the match against Brighton.

She scored a brace, with the other two goals coming from Lottie Gregory and Lucy Wood, who was awarded player of the match, along with Emma Pavitt.

Wood was instrumental in creating several goalscoring opportunities, whilst Pavitt tackled and distributed the ball well at centre back.

Gregory's contribution at the back was also notable – one of Grinstead's strongest distributors of the ball from defence.

Grinstead's defence have not been troubled in recent matches, but they will be expected to step up to the mark in the coming two weeks – when Grinstead's opposition will surely be of a higher quality. Grinstead meet Worthing in the league this Saturday, and then compete at Saint Hill Road on Sunday in a National Vase quarter-final match against Clitheroe (in Lancashire).

With a round trip of 550 miles to complete this weekend, Clitheroe will be determined to go away with a result. Grinstead will no doubt need to raise their game to ensure victory. When asked if the lack of strong opposition recently puts Grinstead in a vulnerable position this weekend coach Dave Bridle responded: "No, the girls have been playing some really good hockey and their passing game in particular is strong.

"The only area of concern at this stage is penalty corners, but we are working hard on those in training and hope that we can take our chances on those at the weekend."

Grinstead will be looking to the more experienced members of the squad to lead the way over the next few weeks.

Jo Malkin in goal will be crucial, along with Nick Hampstead in defence.

In midfield Kate Cowlard (sponsored by SANYO) has hit excellent form this season, proven by her regular selection for the England Masters team, and several player of the match awards for Grinstead. Captain Vicky Griffiths is confident that the mix of youth and experience in her team will prove effective She said: "Of course we will be relying on the more experienced players in the tougher matches ahead, but mixed with this we have some really talented youngsters who are continually proving invaluable.

"Stephanie Baggett and Lucy Wood in particular are a constant threat to opposition, especially in the last quarter of the pitch."

Grinstead play Worthing away at St Andrews School at 11.30am on Saturday, and entertain Clitheroe at Saint Hill at 9.45am on Sunday.