Ben Rhydding steel themselves for last match decider against Sheffield University Bankers (From Ilkley Gazette)

Ben Rhydding steel themselves for last match decider against Sheffield University Bankers

9:14am Thursday 22nd March 2012 in Ben Rhydding

Ben Rhydding 8 Kingston-upon-Hull 1

Ben Rhydding face a nail-biting final match at home to Sheffield University Bankers on Sunday as they fight to avoid relegation from the Men's North Premier League.

They gave themselves a massive boost on Saturday when they romped to their biggest win of the season.

But their joy was tempered by the news that their relegation rivals York had scored an unexpected 6-2 win at Oxton.

That result left Ben Rhydding in the bottom two.

However the situation is incredibly tight. York, who face a final game against champions Wakefield have the same number of points, 21, as Ben Rhydding and head them by just one goal on goal difference.

Formby have 23 points with one game to play while Timperley also have 23 and have finished their programme.

Ben Rhydding coach Demy Dowley said: “There are all sorts of possibilities but I don’t want to think about anything other than winning on Sunday.

“If we win then we will climb above Timperley and that is our aim.

“There should be a good crowd at Ben Rhydding to cheer the lads on.

“Saturday’s win gave them all a lift because they played some good hockey and scored some fine goals.

“The York win was a blow but we have to worry about only the things that we can control.”

Ben Rhydding blitzed doomed Hull with goals by Andrew Parkes (2), Joe Dowley (2), Sam French, David Swarbrick, Neil Sugden and Struan Connor.

Ladies captain Jodie Bridger is lending her support to the men in their fight to beat the drop.

She said: “It is important for the club that the guys stay up.

“They have had a tough season but we are all hoping that they are successful on Sunday.”