CANTERBURY hockey club captain Mel Clewlow is ready to shrug off fears about her fitness to lead her team's challenge in the Women’s National League play-offs this weekend

Clewlow was forced to miss England’s three Test matches against Wales last weekend after being laid low by a balance problem but says she fully expects to be fit for the play-off semi-final against Ipswich at Polo Farm on Saturday starting at noon.

Clewlow revealed that the balance problem had come to light before the HA Cup final a fortnight ago, and then became considerably worse.

She said: “I’ve got an imbalance in my ears and they think it goes back to when I broke my nose 18 months ago. Apparently the fluids aren’t draining properly which is causing problems with my sinuses.

“Basically I feel as I would after a really good night out, but without having any of the fun that goes with it!”

Clewlow says she is determined to play against Ipswich in a game she describes as a massive one for the club.

The winners face the losers of the Slough versus Olton and West Warwicks clash for a place in the final and the right combination of results could offer Canterbury a route into Europe.

Clewlow added: “It’s a huge game because the winner takes all. There will be no second chance for the losers."