Epsom Men’s hockey skipper James Midmer has admitted that defeat in this weekend’s crunch clash with unbeaten league leaders Old Cranleighians could spell the end of their season.

Midmer’s team lie third in Hampshire/Surrey Regional Division One following last weekend’s 4-3 defeat at Chichester 2nds.

And a second consecutive defeat on Saturday at home to the runaway leaders could leave them six points behind Barnes, who occupy the only play-off spot.

Epsom were unbeaten in 15 games, but six draws in that time, the most in the league, have kept them on the cusp of the play-off spot, rather than in proper contention.

Midmer said: “Getting that play-off place will be difficult as Barnes are in good form and I don’t think they will drop any points in the run in – they have already played Old Cranleighans once and have an easier run-in on paper.

“We have also been missing a number of players since Christmas with injuries or availability issues – although I’ve actually been really impressed by the way we had coped up until Saturday.

“If we can get some of those players back then there are five games to go and I think it’s still technically in our hands as we have our final game against Barnes at home.

“So, if we win all five with some goals, we are in with a shot.

“But the Old Cranleighians game is huge. If we can do well in that it is massive for the league and also for confidence. Lose it and it’s all over really.”

Against Chichester 2nds, Midmer put Epsom ahead before the hosts opened up a 3-1 lead. Goals from Paul Atkinson and Dave Fletcher brought Epsom level, but Chichester were not to be denied in a fast-paced encounter.

Midmer said: “We were disappointed to surrender what had turned into a 15-game unbeaten record in the league.”