Hockey: Inverleith look to take the next step in title challenge

Inverleith came within a whisker of dethroning Grove Menzieshill last season, and have an early chance to make their mark in this year's campaign when they take on Western Wildcats, Grange and Glynhill Kelburne in the opening fixtures of the Subway indoor national hockey league at Bells Sports Centre in Perth.

"I expect the contest to be even more competitive this season. But ultimately it's consistency which will lift the championship," said Stuart Neave, Inverleith's coach.

Neave emphasised the merit of consistency, and that is certainly a strong characteristic of Menzieshill over the years as the Taysiders embark on the bid to win their eighth consecutive championship. McPherson took his squad to Prague three weeks ago ago and finished fifth against top class European opposition.

The Menzieshill coach has identified Inverleith, Western Wildcats and Grange as the main dangers to another indoor crown.

Dundee Wanderers' defence of the women's title, won for the first time in the club's history last season, starts off with relatively easy assignments against Glynhill Kelburne and Clydesdale.

"Our game is based on being able to score goals, so if we can continue to do this then we have as much chance of success as anyone," said Iain Strachan, Wanderers' coach.

Strachan has identified Grove Menzieshill and Milne Craig Western as the biggest threats, both of whom open their account against CALA Edinburgh and newly promoted Waverley Inveresk Trinity.