The proceedings began with a game that ran to form from last season's campaign, Bournville beating Reading. Bournville, qualifiers for the National Indoor Hockey Championships [NIHC] last season, won by the odd goal; whilst Reading - who failed to qualify in the top four last season - suffered a tough defeat.
Beeston started off as they would have hoped by beating newly promoted Harleston Magpies. Old Loughtonians then put nine past Canterbury in a 9-2 win, setting out their intention to qualify for the second time in a row. Loughborough Students and East Grinstead - a replay of the 2008 NIHC final - ended in a thrilling 6-6 draw, in which Loughborough clawed back from a four goal deficit.
Welcome to England Hockey League
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Beeston Hockey Club Men's 1st Team Official website.
HA Cup Holders 2008
Beeston 4 v 3 Bowdon
Nottingham, 17th May 2008
To the brave and faithful, nothing is impossible
Next Match:
National League
1st February 2009 v East Grinstead (away) 14:00hrs