Four matches, one sorry day to avenge for, hundreds of expectant supporters watching on… it could mean only one thing. If you want to feel proud to be blue this 5th week then come and support the might of OUHC as they do battle with the old enemy. Oxford’s 2nd and 3rd teams, both men and women, will line up against their Cambridge counterparts in what is shaping up to be an enthralling day of hockey. Last year, Oxford came out second best in all four fixtures and everyone involved with the club is keen to show that last year’s nightmare was a one off. Competition for places throughout OUHC has been at an unprecedented level this year, with the men’s 2nds arguably having the most success on the field. Top of their league and boasting former Blues players Adam Briggs (LMH) and Neil Gallacher (Brasenose) in their line-up, Adam Tozzi (Pembroke) will lead out his team for the final time with expectations justifiably high. He was keen to add, “Whilst we desperately want to win the varsity match, it will not make or break our season. Becoming league champions is just as important and I will not consider the season a failure if we win the league but lose Varsity. The strength of the squad this year, however, should see us win both.” The women’s 2nds also boast a strong team, with some fine performances in both BUSA and their Saturday league. Ably led by Aynsley Bruce (University) with some exciting new talent on show they will be hopeful of overturning last year’s defeat. Emily Hancock (Somerville) rates Oxford’s chances, “Cambridge have a strong team, but we are confident we can raise our game.” Both 3rd teams will be looking for something to remember their seasons by, having endured a difficult run of games, but it seems that form could be turning at the opportune moment with the men winning impressively at the weekend and the women turning solid performances into goals and at the right time. Oxford will be hoping for a strong, vocal turnout to help ensure the tabs go home empty-handed.by Ian Rossiter
