Chris Smith says Ashford Hockey Club have one goal in mind during the second half of the season: to ensure they retain their place in Men’s South Premier Division 2.

After winning promotion last year, Ashford have found it hard going at times this season and, as they resume action at Purley Walcountians on Saturday, their league position offers some cause for concern.

Ashford are ninth out of 12 clubs, with 12 points from 11 matches, and Smith admitted: “We were too inconsistent in the first half of the season.

“We beat some of the top sides but played poorly against some of the lower teams.

“But it is a very tight league and a couple of wins could push us up to fifth or sixth place, and it’s important that we consolidate this season before aiming higher next season.”

Smith hopes to welcome back Michael Wood, who missed the final two matches before the Christmas break after damaging shoulder ligaments.

If Wood is passed fit, Ashford will be at full-strength against a Purley side whom they beat 3-2 at home on the opening day of the season.

FOLKESTONE resume their Kent/Sussex Regional League campaign on Saturday with a crucial home match against Herne Bay.

Both teams are in the bottom five of the table, with Folkestone on 12 points from 10 games, three in front of Bay, who have played a game more.

Folkestone finished before Christmas with a 3-2 home victory over Old Williamsonians.