Whalley takes his bow as captain

THE Investec Guernsey men's team are hoping to put their Harrod Trophy horrors from last year behind them when they travel tomorrow to take on Old Mid-Whitgiftians in the second round. Nearly a year ago to the day the greens suffered a shock exit in the second round of the national competition when they went out by a golden goal at the hands of Bournemouth. The score was 2-2 at the end of normal time.

'After a few years with good cup runs, last year came as a bit of a shock,' said island manager Andy Graham.

'We are confident we won't make the same mistake again, which was to forget to score until the last few minutes and then let in a soft goal in extra time.'

The team has a number of new caps following the loss of Jamie Chambers and his brother Nick, since the inter-insular. The notable additions are Ollie Richards, Johnny Clark and Kitt Wrightson, who are all making their debuts.

Also returning to the fold is the experienced Barry Wallace.

Whalley, the former Guildford national league player and England mixed skipper, leads the side for the first time. Whalley has also been the Channel Islands captain for a number of years.

The outgoing captain, Mark Babbe, will be playing his last game for Guernsey before travelling to Australia.

'It seemed the right time to change captains,' said Graham.

'Mark has done a great job, he captained the most emphatic victory Guernsey has had against Jersey for many years in the inter-insular, so he can be proud of his contribution.'

Croydon team Old Mid-Whitgiftians play in the Surrey/Hampshire regional league. Guernsey have met them in the competition on three previous occasions, losing in extra time in their last meeting five years ago.

'Surrey/Hampshire sides always give us problems,' said Graham.

'They tend to get the ball moving very quickly after the breakdown and play at a high pace.

'We try and play high tempo hockey as well, which should lead to an exciting game.'