Moonraker men target a triple

10:38am Thursday 12th April 2007

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PLAYERS from all three Devizes teams will be looking to impress the Wiltshire selectors at the County Cup finals on Saturday.

The Moonrakermen will be looking for a triple success over West Wilts B, West Wilts A and Salisbury.

Chairman Toby Brown, who is also organising the day at Devizes Leisure Centre, believes the event is a showcase for the County Championships on Saturday, May 12.

He said: "In the county we do not have many clubs and therefore the strength of player depth is important.

"It is about filling the gap up with competitive hockey and being able to select the best players."

Brown is also looking forward to seeing the fringe players in the second and third teams play their part.

"Either they are just starting or finishing but it is nice to have them involved and hopefully, even if they lose, they will enjoy the day," he said.

First team captain Charles Hanson is hopeful his side can overcome Salisbury in the Wiltshire Cup but also wants his players to catch the eye.

He said: "The club wants to encourage people because it is a good showcase and good news for Devizes if we have a number of players in the county team. It shows the club is on the up."

The first team won Premier Three, their ninth league win in a row, this season and will be also looking to defend their Wiltshire Cup title.

First team coach, Charlie Seccombe believes, although difficult, all three teams could emerge victorious.

The third team take on West Wilts B in the Wiltshire Vase and the seconds play West Wilts A in the Trophy.

"It is definitely possible after the season the thirds have had and the recent commitment shown by the second team," he said.

"I don't think home advantage makes a difference because the pitches this time of year are completely different.

"They are a lot drier and slippery under foot so we could do with a big down pour before the game."

Wiltshire Vase (9.30am) West Wilts B v Devizes B

Wiltshire Trophy (11.15am) West Wilts A v Devizes A

Wiltshire Veterans (1pm) Salisbury v Chippenham

Wiltshire Shield (2.45pm) Chippenham v Salisbury

Wiltshire Cup (4.30pm) Salisbury v Devizes

All matches to be played on Saturday, April 14 at Devizes Leisure Centre.