Defending champions Wimbledon take on ambitious newcomers Holcombe in the Men’s Hockey League Premier Division on Sunday, in what looks set to be the game of the weekend.

Trailing 2-0 at Brooklands Manchester University last weekend, Wimbledon hit back with two late goals to snatch a draw.

Meanwhile Holcombe, littered with international stars, blasted seven past Canterbury.

“Even though Holcombe were in the Conference last season, they’re one of the strongest teams in the league and we will obviously be on our guard,” said Wimbledon director of hockey Ben Marsden.

“As champions we’re the team to beat, and everyone will want to knock us off our perch, but we’ve got to handle that pressure." 

He added: "We’re not reading too much into the performance at Brooklands – we were poor for 15 minutes in the first half, but other than that we did well.

“We were without three of our internationals for that match, but they’re all back for the Holcombe match, and we’re capable of winning any game.”