The Legacy Ulster Women’s Premier League action returns today with a top of the table clash between Ards and Queen’s University.
Going into today’s fixture, just five points separate the two sides with second-placed Ards also having a game in hand.
Both sides have been in scintillating form this campaign, but with just over a month until the season comes to an end, today’s fixture is set to have a massive impact on who will be crowned eventual champions.
Current leaders Queen’s University boast the best attacking and defensive records in the division as well as having the leagues top scorer Alyssa Jebb and Ireland international Zoe Wilson amongst their roster.
Meanwhile, their opponents have lost just once this campaign in their 12 fixtures and are hopeful of an immediate return to EYHL hockey.
Elsewhere in the division, Banbridge are looking to improve their chances of avoiding relegation when they take on an in-form Ballymoney side at Havelock Park.
The hosts come into the game off the back of a midweek win over Omagh in the Denman Shield.
Goals from Sam Bann, Rachel Cairns, Alyssa Somerville and Rachel Hewitt sealed the victory as they look to take their new found momentum into their league campaign.
The final game from the division sees Lurgan take on Belfast Harlequins where any winner would climb to third in the table.
Both sides come into the game full of confidence and optimistic of continuing their fine form.
Lurgan are unbeaten in their last five outings whilst Belfast Harlequins have lost just once in the same timeframe.
There are also two games in the Denman Shield today with hockey giants Pegasus set to take on Portadown at The Dub.
Whilst their visitors are yet to get their cup campaign underway, Pegs come into the game having come from behind to beat Ulster Elks in their first group game during the week.
A win would guarantee their progression to the semi-finals, whereas victory for Portadown could leave the group with all to play for.
The final game of the day sees Omagh looking to keep their chances of cup progression alive when they take on Lisnagarvey.
Their midweek loss to Banbridge has left Omagh on the brink of elimination as they now take on a Lisnagarvey side full of confidence.
Garvey continued their recent league run into the Denman Shield as they beat their local rivals Banbridge 2-0 last weekend.
Whilst their hosts require a win to stand any chance of qualification, a draw would be enough for the Comber Road side to top the group.
PHOTO: FRONT ROW UNION
