One victory and one defeat meant that the mens’ team of Surbiton HC, the world’s second oldest hockey club, continued through to the knock-out stages of Europe’s elite hockey league.
Qualifying for the 24-team tournament for the first time in ten years, Surbiton were placed in a group with Vienna’s SV Arminen and Real Club de Polo, from Barcelona, where the group’s games were held.
A stunning opening 5-0 victory against the Austrian team on Friday led to a Sunday showdown with the Spanish champions to see who would top the group. After an even start, home advantage started to tell and the local favourites finished deserved 3-0 winners.
Fergus Dunn, Surbtion’s right-back and Scottish international, said: “The boys were pleased with their performance on Friday but couldn’t quite match that today against what is a very strong and experienced side.”
The next round of the tournament is likely to be played in the Netherlands in April and, according to Dunn: “The boys are already looking forward to it.”
Photo courtesy of Rex
