Top clubs facing league and cup juggling act

THE country’s top hockey clubs are fighting battles on dual fronts this weekend, with vital league clashes mixed in with the novelty of the start of their Irish Junior Cup campaign.

A handful of players will therefore be in action twice in 24 hours, potentially at opposite ends of the country. UCC’s men will be hoping there are no ill-effects from an IJC trip to Antrim’s Mossley when their firsts meet Catholic Institute at the Mardyke on Sunday — their first clash against an outfit outside last year’s top three in Munster.

Institute may have revenge on their minds after shipping a 5-1 defeat in the Irish Trophy before Christmas, and have shocked the students in the past. But if College’s Gray brothers Roger and Andy bring their drag-flicking A-game, it should give the hosts a first league win of the season.