Queen’s University and Ulster University Elks go head-to-head in the Denman Shield this evening at Havelock Park.
The meeting will also be the first time these two sides have met since 2023 when Elks pipped Queen’s to EYHL promotion with a 2-0 victory in the EYHL2 Semi-Finals.
Since then, the sides have been separated by one division with Queen’s University playing their league hockey in the Legacy Wealth Management Premier League where they are on course for a second consecutive league title and potential promotion.
Simon Bell’s side are unbeaten in Ulster competitions this season and come into this evening’s final off the back of a crucial league win over title rivals Portadown.
Goals from Zoe Wilson and Jenna McCarlie sealed the win and has the side six points clear in top spot.
The side also sealed their spot in this evening’s fixture with a comfortable 3-0 win over their league challengers with goals from Jodie Simmons (2) and Jenna McCarlie.
Meanwhile, following their promotion, Joel Cathcart’s Ulster Elks side have gone from strength-to-strength in the EYHL, staying up in their first season and now sitting in the top half of the division in 2024/25.
However, the side come into this evenings game after a dip in form with a 5-0 defeat to UCD being followed by the weekend’s 0-0 draw with Old Alex.
Like Queen’s the side booked their spot in the final with a win over Legacy Wealth Management Premier League opposition in the semi-finals.
Goals from Anna Mollenhauer and Rachel Houston sealed a 2-0 win over Lurgan whilst goalkeeper Gemma Ferguson was called into early action to save a penalty stroke.
Both sides are also looking to end their wait to lift the competition, with QUB having last lifted the competition in 2017/18 whilst UUJ last tasted success in 2009/10.
All spectators are welcome to tonight’s game with a gate fee of £5 for children and £8 for adults.
The action is set to get underway from 7:45pm at Havelock Park.