Scorer(s):S Ramsden 2, R Lane, A Brogdon, M Plunkett, G Andrew

Cannock played host to Beeston as the Slazenger England Hockey League Premier Division resumed on Sunday.

The Nottingham side had beaten Cannock in both the league and the cup before Christmas so the home side were eager to make amends and led 1 nil at half time thanks to a Simon Ramsden penalty stroke. However Beeston may feel they had the better chances in a cagey first half.

The second half was to be a more open affair beginning with Richard Lane making it 2-0 after 2 minutes. Cannock had more of the possession but it was Beeston who pulled a goal back with a fine penalty corner.

Simon Ramsden made it 3-1 with a goal from a penalty corner but Beeston hit back on the break with a far post tap-in. Cannock responded immediately with another fine move finished by Andy Brogdon with 13 minutes remaining.

The match was still up for grabs until Beeston made the decision to remove their 'keeper and play with 11 outfield players. Cannock responded with two breakaway goals from Matt Plunkett and Gareth Andrew within 60 seconds, passing the ball into an empty net.

Beeston restored their 'keeper as Cannock nearly scored a seventh goal and the match finished with an emphatic 6-2 score line.

With results elsewhere going their way, Cannock return to second place in the league and face Hampstead & Westminster at home at 2 PM on Sunday.