A NEW-LOOK Ben Rhydding side played with confidence and great promise as they took to the field against three National League sides in the Champions Trophy at the weekend.

Always the underdogs as the only regional team in the competition, Ben Rhydding put Sheffield Hallam on the back foot for quite a spell in the first half and the ex-Premier League side were only 1-0 up going into the break.

Rhydding repeatedly won the ball using a patient and intelligent press, but were unable to sustain this into the second half as they lost 5-0.

Myles Locke and Max Helme caught the eye on their return from university while new recruit Robert Ramsden looked good in midfield.

Ben Rhydding's next opponents were the eventual winners, Wakefield.

Wakefield went ahead after a bright Ben Rhydding start. Two ruthlessly executed goals increased their lead.

They added a fourth from a tricky drag flick which keeper, Cam Herbert managed a get an edge on and was unlucky to see it enter the goal.

Rhydding began a comeback just before half time with skipper Will Musgrave leading from the front and netting from a corner.

The underdogs had the better of the second half. Callum Franks, who had an impressive tournament, eliminated several defenders to set up Helme for a well-finished goal.

Powerful running from newcomer Andy Harkins posed problems as Wakefield began to tire.

Ross McMillan and Rob Ramsden mopped up the majority of Wakefield’s short game but couldn't prevent them from adding two further goals to win 6-2.

The final game against Doncaster showed Rhydding’s reliable fitness levels as they battled it out against an experienced side.

Andy Clemerson marshalled the defence reliably and was able to be creative once they had possession.

Danny Foster played across different lines and showed his versatility while Andrew Lorimer made some excellent connections going forwards.

Both teams played tired hockey and easy goals were scored at each end.

A great sliding deflection put Paddy Smith on the scoresheet along with Robbie Studholme and another from Helme, but Ben Rhydding lost 6-3.

Youngster Matthew Ramshaw made a convincing start to his career with the senior side.