PLAYER-COACH Andy Watts believes his Reading side are capable of causing an upset in the National 5s Championships at Wembley Arena on Sunday.
That is despite the fact they were the last of the qualifiers for the semi-finals and will also be missing their leading goal scorer John Jackson.

Blues, however, are an improving side. They managed only to win one of the four indoor league games played before Christmas and looked to be heading out of the competition.

But the second round of fixtures produced three wins and a draw, with the latter earning them their place in the semi-finals, where they will meet league winners East Grinstead.
"We are all looking forward to Sunday," said Watts.

"The first weekend didn't go too well, but we then produced a brilliant performance on the second weekend. I agree we go to Wembley as outsiders of the four teams, but we're happy with that tag as it will take some of the pressure off us."

Blues lost 5-2 to title favourites East Grinstead when they met in the league at Burton-upon-Trent last month, but Watts added: "We had a good contest with them and we have now gained more experience and I am confident we can give them a good run for their money."

Reading will be missing Jackson, who scored 11 goals in their eight indoor games. The Ireland captain is with his squad at a South African training camp, where they are preparing for the World League 2 which starts in the United States on February 28.

Reading's match with East Grinstead on Sunday starts at 12.30pm, and will be followed by the second semi-final between Canterbury and Sevenoaks at 1.45. The final is scheduled for 4.45.

Watts added: "This is one of the best days England Hockey put on. With so many games being played on the same day, there is always a good atmosphere. We will have a good number of fans there from Reading.

The Reading squad is: Gary Noble, Chris Newman (capt), Richard Mantell, Richard Springham, Dan Shingles, Timmy Atkins, Jack Clee, Andy Watts, Tom Carson, Will Carter-Keall, Steve Campbell