Stuttering Sonians aiming to stop the rot at Peffermill

The former league pace-setters have lost their last four games and are now sixth with nine points from seven starts while Dundee-based Grove Menzieshill are fourth with 13 points from six games.

Stuart’s squad, who entertain Grove at Peffermill tomorrow (4pm), were edged 4-2 at Western Wildcats last Saturday and he could be minus captain Lyan Hillis (hamstring), corner specialist Scott Sutherland (shoulder, back and knees), defender Callum Swan (hand) and midfielder Blair Wynd (hamstring).

He said: “This Saturday is just about enjoying the challenge of playing a top-four team and improving on our previous performances.

“Last Saturday was very disappointing. The guys put in a huge effort and controlled large parts of the game. They also played some good hockey and deserved more out of the game.

“Western took their chances and punished us when we lost concentration so earned the three points.”

Edinburgh University are seeking a tonic after their 4-2 defeat at league pace-setters Grange.

Coach Graham Moodie was pleased with some aspects of the performance against the top team in the division but rued defensive lapses which Grange punished.

Bromac Kelburne, who are second with 18 points from seven starts, a point behind Grange, will also punish mistakes if they happen in the game at Glasgow’s National Hockey Centre (noon).

Grange travel to seventh-placed Western Wildcats (2pm) looking to extend their unbeaten run to eight games and Andrew Brogdon, the club’s player/coach, said: “We’re still developing as a squad and working hard to improve.”