Cookstown caught cold by Pembroke

With Ireland's senior men in Belgium continuing their World Cup preparations, just two men's EY Hockey League matches were on the agenda with Glenanne and Pembroke making big moves.

The Glens, the reigning league champions, moved into top spot on goal difference courtesy of a 3-1 win over Annadale.

A trio of penalty corner drag-flicks did the damage. Shannon Boucher opened up the scoring in the fifth minute as his shot deceived Jonny Moore. Ryan Burgess continued his fine run of form to tie the game at 1-1 but second half strikes from Cedric Jakobi and Boucher ensured they had a little breathing room at the end.

Pembroke produced a remarkable comeback to break Cookstown hearts, coming back from 2-0 down to win at Steelweld Park by the odd goal in five.

Cookstown had a superb start, Michael Kerr fizzing in a corner before Greg Allen volleyed in the second. Stephen Sweetnam gave Pembroke a lifeline before Greg Chambers squeezed in the second before Cian Murphy finished off a counter to win the game 3-2.

The win moves Pembroke up to third place in the table and they can move into a share at the top with Glenanne and Banbridge should they win against YMCA next weekend in the only game on the agenda.

Only one other EYHL tie is scheduled to be played before Christmas, the meeting of Cork C of I and Annadale on December 1st due to the World Cup.

EY Hockey League Results: Glenanne 3 (S Boucher 2, C Jakobi) Annadale 1 (R Burgess); Cookstown 2 (M Kerr, G Allen) Pembroke 3 (S Sweetnam, G Chambers, C Murphy).

Loreto and Pegasus win

Loreto and Pegasus went stride for stride at the top of the women’s EY Hockey League as they recorded hard fought wins over Old Alex and Cork Harlequins.

Loreto trailed at half-time against Alex to an early Emma Russell goal but World Cup stars Hannah Matthews and Ali Meeke both scored for the second week running to nick a 2-1 win result.

Pegasus were forced to soak up a huge amount of pressure in Cork but two early Taite Doherty goals put them on course for a 4-2 success. Cliodhna Sargent pulled one back from the penalty spot but Shirley McCay made it 3-1 in similar style.