Romford Raiders players celebrate a goal against Invicta

Leaders look for maximum points

Romford Raiders face two tricky tests as they look to get their National League Division One title bid back on course this weekend.

The defending champions and current leaders suffered only their second defeat of the season at Streatham last weekend, before the wintry weather wiped out their cup clash with Invicta.

Danny Marshall’s men are set to travel off the mainland to take on the Isle of Wight tomorrow (Saturday) and their namesakes will no doubt be on a high after succeeding Romford as South East Trophy winners earlier this month.

A last-gasp goal denied Romford victory on their first trip to Ryde this season, as honours finished even in their Raiders Cup clash at 5-5.

And they were shut out 4-0 when they returned three weeks later in the trophy group stage, as Wight goalie Matt Colclough turned aside all 45 shots that were sent his way.

Bracknell visit Rom Valley Way on Sunday (5.15pm) and Romford team boss Mick Cahill knows the players will have to work hard to earn their rewards.

He said: “Four league points are at stake this weekend and it couldn’t be a tougher start than with a trip to the Isle of Wight.

“We’ve only played three games in the past five weeks and would have preferred to have been more active, but we are where we are and will definitely be going for the win.”

“It’s our bogey team the following night when we take on Bracknell at Rom Valley Way.

“We faced them in two cup games before the winter break and managed to beat the Hornets twice, but only by the odd goal each time.

“In the League, we’ve already lost at the Hive, and Bracknell’s record against us since our return to this level of hockey is as good as any.

“We’re expecting a difficult game and I don’t think we’ll be disappointed.”