Speed to play its role

HOCKEY: Rovers and All Blacks division one women's teams will take memories of their tight, tough first-round tussle into tomorrow night's game.

Their first encounter in 2009 resulted in a 1-all draw.

While both coaches said they were quietly confident of victory, both were aware of the potential of their opponents to deal out a defeat.

All Blacks coach Rhys Grills said his team was being bolstered by players returning from injury, as well as a comeback by Hayley Elder from work commitments.

“Hayley will definitely be a handy inclusion to the side,” Grills said.

“Our first game was tough and I expect the same on Saturday.”

All Blacks women's team re-entered the first division competition this season.

The side has the advantage of youth, speed and agility over the more experienced Rovers' outfit.

“I think we're a bit quicker and more mobile and we'll be using that to our advantage,” Grills said.

“They've got the advantage of experience over us though.”

Rovers' coach Dean Anderson agreed with his counterpart's assessment, but added the mental attitude of the players on the day would play a role in the match.

“It's a matter of who rocks up to play will win,” Anderson said.

“They're pretty quick and capable of making some nice break-aways, with the potential of scoring goals.

“Our defence will really have to be on its game to hold them out.”

Cities' coach Mick Callaghan rated Keith Scherer their main danger in their clash with Arrows Athletics.

“He's an ex-cricket player and hits a mean ball,” Callaghan said.

Callaghan is also concerned about the mental attitude of his players.

“If they out-enthuse us, we can be beaten, and that's our nemesis,” he said.

In division one men's games at Hinkler Park tomorrow - Arrows v Cities at 3.15pm and Rovers v All Blacks at 4.35pm.

In the women's matches Rovers take on All Blacks at 6pm, while the Raiders will face off against Cities at 7.25pm.