Weekend All-Ireland hockey preview… all the fixtures, venues, match times and latest standings with all to play for in Ards v Elks Ulster derby clash

A lot at stake as Ards and Elks meet again (Pic: Bob Given)

WITH international duties now concluded, the EY Hockey League returns with a full bill of fixtures this weekend.

In the Women’s EYHL, Loreto have a chance to put one hand on the trophy as they visit Pembroke Wanderers; Catholic Institute look to maintain their unbeaten home record against Old Alex; UCD welcome Pegasus to Belfield with an opportunity to complete their season turnaround and Ulster Elks travel to Ards for an all-Ulster encounter, with the visitors looking to continue their fine run of form.

In the Women’s EYHL2, Muckross host Portadown and Monkstown visit Cork Harlequins in two crucial battles in Pool A. In Pool B, Lurgan will hope to knock Queen’s University off their perch, while Corinthian will hope to grab a third win to help solidify their spot within the play-off places.

Saturday, March 8

EY Hockey League Division 1 – Women

Catholic Institute vs Old Alex

12:45 | Rosbrien

The first women’s game of the day sees fifth place Catholic Institute welcome 4th place Old Alex to Rosbrien. Inst have enjoyed a perfect home record so far which they will be keen to continue this weekend, and with Naomi Carroll back among the goals during Ireland’s FIH Nations Cup campaign, they will likely look to her to help them do that. For Old Alex, a win would help change their fortunes in the league. The team are without a win in six league games but have continued to add points to their tally. While a draw would only serve to extend their winless run, to leave Rosbrien with points would be a result for any side.

Umpires: Malcolm Coombes, Ellie Duffy.

UCC vs Railway Union

13:00 | The Mardyke

With just six games remaining for UCC, time is ticking if a late survival surge is to be made by the Munster college side. They have a tough task on their hands as they welcome in-form Railway Union to the Mardyke. The visitors have had plenty to celebrate in recent weeks, with a stellar European indoor campaign under their belt, and an AIG Irish Senior Cup Semi-Final secured, they’ll have no intentions letting their streak end on Saturday.

Umpires: Ben Geoghegan, Peter Motyer.

Ards vs Ulster Elks

14:30 | Londonderry Park

Third place Ulster Elks visit ninth place Ards in another provincial derby. The hosts now sit in the uncomfortable position of being among the relegation spots, three points from safety. Elks on the other hand are enjoying a landmark season in the EYHL, sitting in third spot, just three points behind Railway Union with a place in the Champions Trophy play-off almost guaranteed. Despite the comfortable position, Elks can’t rest on their laurels. With four very winnable games ahead, the Ulster University club could even manage a top two finish which would guarantee them passage straight to the semi-finals.

Umpires: Linda Coughlan, Amy Jones

Pembroke Wanderers vs Loreto

14:30 | Serpentine Avenue

In need of points, Pembroke have a tough task ahead on Saturday when they welcome unbeaten Loreto to Serpentine Avenue. The hosts sit eighth in the table, just 3 points clear of Ards in the relegation zone, and with only five games still to play it’s imperative that Pembroke find ways to add to their tally. Loreto meanwhile are comfortably top, with 5 points separating them and Railway as well as a game in hand. The visitors look on course to secure their third league title on the bounce but can’t afford to take their foot off the gas if they are to secure their first EY Champions Trophy since 2018. Momentum could be vital.

Umpires: Oli Brown, Mike Campbell

Pegasus vs UCD

14:30 | Queen’s University

Having been knocked out of the AIG Irish Senior Cup by UCD just a fortnight ago, Pegasus will have a revenge opportunity on home soil, in a game that holds just as much importance in the EYHL. As it stands Pegasus sit one place and one point above UCD in the table, currently occupying the last EY Champions Trophy Play-Off place. Having spent an extended period among the relegation places, breaking into the top six would likely be another significant lift for a squad that continues to improve.

Umpires: Sarah Craig, Julie Fisher

Women’s Pool A Standings