Wimbledon coach Ben Hawes says their first taste of European hockey has left them hungry for more.

The Dons’ Euro Hockey League debut only lasted one match following defeat at hosts Amsterdam, and now they are desperate to return.

That chance comes this weekend when the Men’s Hockey League Premier Division play-offs kicks off at the Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre.

Hawes’ men, who finished fourth in the division standings, face table-toppers Holcombe, with either Reading or Surbiton awaiting the victors.

Holcombe have already qualified for Europe, meaning Wimbledon must beat them and win the final to make a booking to cross the Channel.

Hawes said: “We are in confident, and after the experience in Amsterdam where we spent some good time together as a team, we have a bit of spirit about us.

“It is a big incentive for us to get back into Europe.”

He added: “I have always said that we have good quality in the side, and we have players who perform on the big stage.

“But then again so do Holcombe, so it will be tough although we’re also really excited by the weekend coming up.”