Scorer(s): S Ramsden, G Andrew

Cannock successfully negotiated their round 1 group in the new European Hockey League at the weekend.

Friday saw them face Russian Champions Dinamo Kazan whose squad contains much of the Russian national team and Cannock were 1 down in the opening moments. Simon Ramsden pulled them level from a penalty corner low to the 'keepers right and Gareth Andrew made it 2-1 at the break.

The second half saw the Russians press to get back in the game and and Kazan hit the post and had claims for an equaliser turned down after a video replay. Despite the pressure, Cannock held on to claim the win.

Scorer(s): G Andrew, A West

Saturday morning saw an early start against Vienna and once again Cannock went one down when a free hit was deflected in at the far post. Cannock fought back but could not convert 2 penalty corners.

Cannock did level the score when the Vienna 'keeper could not clear a cross from the left and the ball got trapped beneath his feet. Gareth Andrew poached the goal before the 'keeper regained his bearings.

The Austrians were then reduced to 10 men after a sliding foul on Martin Jones. Cannock took advantage with Andy West firing home from the top of the D.

Cannock led at the break but could not add to their lead and had to withstand a late fight back to secure the win and their place in the last 16 that will be played at Easter. Dinamo Kazan beat the Austrians on Sunday to join them.

Meanwhile English rivals Reading joined Cannock in the last 16 after qualifying from their group courtesy of a penalty shootout after all 3 matches were drawn. Loughborough Students compete in Belgium next weekend. Cannock's next match is in the English Hockey League at home to Loughborough on 10th November.