HOCKEY: Ipswich Ladies face Ben Rhyding on Sunday in the next round of the EHL Cup. Ben Rhyding, who play in the Northern Premier League, have only lost one game so far and last year competed in the play-offs for a place in the National League.

HOCKEY

Ipswich Ladies face Ben Rhyding on Sunday in the next round of the EHL Cup.

Ben Rhyding, who play in the Northern Premier League, have only lost one game so far and last year competed in the play-offs for a place in the National League.

Ipswich will need to be on their toes as there is no room for complacency. Ben Rhyding know how to find the goal, scoring nine in their last cup match.

Sandie Lister, the Ipswich coach, has put out a strong squad, and with the welcome return of Jo Ellis from England duty and Sophie Sheldrake from a nasty knee injury, Ipswich have a fearsome forward line.

Ipswich will want to make up for their poor performance in recent games where they have been lacking the drive and determination which carried them to the top of the National League early in the season.

Lister said: "It is vital that we try to recapture our quick, passing game which can devastate any opposition."

Ipswich seconds enter their last game in the Printwize East Premier League this year sitting two points clear at the top of the table and are fully aware that this will be one of their hardest games of the season.

Opponents Cambridge City have had an up-and-down season so far and will want to go into the Christmas break in style.

The free-scoring team will aim to put the Ipswich defence under immense pressure and will be looking for captain and playmaker Vanya Fairman-Smith to control the midfield.

The key to this game is likely to be how well each team's defensive unit plays and a fast-paced and lively game is expected.

To add fuel to the fire ex-Cambridge City player Dawn Course now plays for Ipswich.

Captain Emma Millar knows that her team have not been playing at their best for the last two weeks but is sure that they can raise their game.

"We are a team that likes a challenge and City always provide us with that. Our team spirit is outstanding and I have never played in a side with such belief."

Ipswich get back to league action on January 18, 2003, against old rivals Bury.

IPSWICH East Suffolk ladies must raise their game again this week as they pay a visit to Watton for their first meeting with Old Buckenham.

Nothing less than a win is expected. Last week IES moved the ball about the pitch and took control of the game early on, Skipper Avril Adams will want to ensure that her defence holds tight.

The second team will want to continue their positive streak when they play Felixstowe and the thirds will go all out to claim another win against Felixstowe in what is turning out to be a very successful season.