Time for Dalefield's young talent to step up

Hockey

Marquis Dalefield have the potential to upset Indians in their Wellington premier division men's hockey match at the National Hockey Stadium tomorrow.

In two previous clashes this season, Indians have won 4-1 and 4-2, but Dalefield were competitive enough both times to suggest they can turn the tables.

This season has by no means been a vintage one for Indians, so long a dominant side in the Wellington competition.

They have had three wins, one draw and six losses and seem to lack the attacking spark for which they are so well known.

Dalefield, on the other hand, have generally been creating a sufficient number of prime scoring chances to match most of the other premier division sides, but, as was the case against Hutt last weekend, they have not always been clinical enough in their finishing work. Hutt won that game 4-0 but Dalefield often had them on the back pedal, especially in the second half.

Unfortunately, however, they had nothing to show for their efforts.

The loss of star striker Dion Field, who is now in Australia, is a blow to Dalefield and his absence means the onus is on other talented youngsters like Joseph Robertson, Hayden Sergeant, Alex Sumenko-Bucknell, Mitchell Blackwood and the Workmans, Liam and Tane, to not only create scoring opportunities but turn them into goals.

Tomorrow would be the ideal time to do exactly that.