Hockey: Ambitious Havant heading for the high ground: Shaw's fitness could be crucial for Southgate as National League race intensifies

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Andrew Feinberg

White House Correspondent

A WIN for Havant at Southgate today would put them in the driving seat for the run-in of the Pizza Express National League. With both teams just one point behind Hounslow, the defending champions and current leaders, and each with a game in hand, it is welcome news that both sides expect to be at full strength for this crucial game.

Southgate's captain, John Shaw, who damaged a hand at Canterbury last Sunday, has pronounced himself fit while the Scottish midfield player, Derek Cuncliffe, who missed Havant's games last weekend, returns.

Hounslow also expect to be at full strength for their visit to Bristol to play Firebrands. Fourth-placed Old Loughtonians travel the short distance to struggling St Albans.

The four leading clubs are tomorrow involved in HA Cup quarter-finals with the holders, Hounslow, visiting Southgate and Havant away to Old Loughtonians at Chigwell. Reading should return home from Harrogate with smiles and Teddington should get the better of Second Division Beeston in the other ties.

Today's Pizza Express First Division game between Bournville and Cannock has been postponed because of sickness at Bournville.