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 super 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 1 December due to the World Cup.
