The following extracts are taken from the local newspaper, the Oxford Mail and record the events from the 2001 - 2002 Season.

First published on Saturday 09 June 2001:

Stars one of deadly dozen

OXFORD City Stars will be playing in a 12-team section in next season's English Ice Hockey National League South. Teams from Chelmsford, Invicta, Gosport (Portsmouth) and Solihull join Stars and all eight of last year's teams - Oxford, Basingstoke, Birmingham, Bracknell, Flintshire, Peterborough, Slough and Telford - in the same division. The 2000-2001 English National League title has yet to be decided. Billingham (Middlesbrough), who defeated Oxford in the semi-finals, won by two goals at Whitley Bay in the first leg of the final but have yet to play their home leg because of problems at their rink - the ice pad has been deemed unsafe. The 2001-2002 English National League South will start in September with all league fixtures scheduled to be completed by the end of February 2002. There will be an English Cup competition running alongside the league, with Oxford competing in a six-team southern section. Meanwhile, Luke Plasted, of Oxford City's under 16 squad, has been selected for the National School of Excellence. He recently played alongside another Oxford player, Oliver Medcalf, for the South West Conference team that narrowly lost in the final of the National Inter-Conference Championships. OXFORD Under 19s narrowly missed promotion in the recent play-offs so will remain in a division with Bracknell, Bristol, Haringey, Gosport, Isle of Wight, Invicta and Streatham next season. The closure of Oxford Ice Rink for maintenance has meant that teams have had to play away from home for double points in recent age group play-offs. Oxford's under 16 squad finished second in the recent 16-team tournament at Kilmarnock, and drew at Peterborough in their most recent match. Oxford City Under 14s played Bracknell twice in the English League play-offs, both games being played at Bracknell because of the closure of the Oxford Ice Rink. Results: Bracknell 3, Oxford C 1; Bracknell 1, Oxford C 2. The Under 14s won the Anthony Nolan Cup at the Bracknell tournament. Results: Oxford City 6, Lee Valley 0; Oxford City 2, Bracknell 0; Oxford City 2, Haringey 2; Oxford City 1, Bristol 1; Oxford City 4, Invicta 0.

First published on Saturday 18 August 2001:

Stars set to ring changes

OXFORD City Stars expect to announce the arrival of several new players over the next couple of weeks. The signings will hopefully include two new imports (one already training with the team) and a couple of British players who were last here when they played at Oxpens for the Blades. Players from some local English League clubs will also be trying out for the squad. A clear-out of some of last season's squad has already taken place. Players who have gone from last season's squad include Glen and Chris West, Scott Gough, Danny Turner, Richard Hardy, Andy Goddard, Andy McGurk and Jon-Paul Ibrahim. A few younger players who got only occasional ice time have also moved on and these include Scott Stroud, Oliver Medcalf and Adam Dobson. To counter this, some new youngsters have moved to Oxford from other clubs. The increase in fixtures with the addition of Milton Keynes Thunder, Invicta and Chelmsford Chieftains to the league (along with a larger group stage for the English Cup) means supporters can look forward to a more regular fixture list in the coming season. There will be 15 home games over a 21-week period and no gap exceeding two weeks between matches. Due to difficulties over obtaining confirmed ice-time at some rinks (not at Oxford), the English Ice Hockey Association have only just released the first month's fixtures for the junior leagues. Oxford's first fixtures are away to Haringey in the English U14 and U12 Leagues on Saturday, September 8. The first home matches are against Bristol in the same age groups the following Saturday when the under 19s open their campaign at Haringey.

First published on Tuesday 11 September 2001:

Ice hockey: City miss boat in cup opener.

Bracknell Hornets 6, Oxford City Stars 4 Oxford City Stars lost this English Cup tie but they nevertheless felt it was a satisfactory run-out in their build-up towards the coming league season. Stars had already taken the decision to use it as a pre-season warm-up because of delays in bringing the full squad together. James Cameron was the only top-line forward available and both imports were missing. Oxford's lack of firepower told with Luke Plasted unable to convert several chances. Bracknell scored in the 15th minute when Glen West capitalised on a power-play with an unassisted goal. Bracknell's second came after 25 minutes when Andy Johnston scored after a defensive error, and when Oxford conceded a third, scored by Simon Griffiths, it looked as though the Hornets might pull out of sight. However, in the last minute of the half, Oxford snapped up two power-play goals. The first came from new defenceman Simon Ferry after he was set up by Paul Donohoe, and the second when Andy Cox converted after a build-up involving Steve Cameron and Donohoe. Bracknell responded with another goal from Glen West, followed by a powerplay marker from Chris West. James Roberts was ejected after fighting with Bracknell's Adam Hymen, but Cox scored an unassisted short-handed goal 30 seconds after the restart and Oxford survived the rest of the seven-minute powerplay without conceding. Cameron scored Oxford's fourth, with help from Cox, but tiredness told as Hymen made the game safe for Bracknell. **Oxford scorers: A Cox 2+1, J Cameron 1+0, S Ferry 1+0, P Donohoe 0+2, S Cameron 0+1.

First published on Saturday 29 September 2001:

Stars make major changes

OXFORD City Stars have rung the changes ahead of their English Ice Hockey League Cup match at Flintshire, after they released Darren Elliott, to Basingstoke, and Danny Turner, Glen and Chris West, to Bracknell. Stars go into the game on the back of their comfortable victory over Invicta last weekend, and with the Deeside Ice Arena in Chester being a happy hunting ground last year, they will be keen to ensure their success continues. They have boosted their squad with new signings Simon Ferry, Kriss Abbott, Greg Wyatt, Pete Taylor, Lewis Clifford and Alex Eberhardt, and have also signed former Basingstoke Beavers and Isle of Wight man Ade Haigh, who joins the club to slot into first or second line defence. This weekend also sees the return of Steven Cameron from holiday, and James Roberts from suspension, but on the down side Eberhardt is unavailable as he is in Germany for a week. He will be back for the home game against Chelmsford Chieftains on Sunday, October 7. The Flintshire squad is relatively unchanged from last year, although veteran Brian Jackson has returned. The first few weeks of the English National League programme indicate that things are going to be very competitive at the top this season. The new campaign has started with many of the top contenders playing each other, with mixed fortunes so far, putting at least six teams in the running for top places. Last season's champions, Basingstoke Buffalo, have lost to Chelmsford, Chelmsford have lost at Telford, whom Oxford have already beaten. It looks good for Stars, but then Oxford have also lost at Bracknell, so it is wide open The next month or so will be testing for Oxford, as in the few weeks following the Chelmsford game, Stars have home matches against Telford, Bracknell and Flintshire and a tricky trip to Basingstoke. The matches during this spell should give Stars a good idea of where the strength lies in the league and what needs to be done to achieve a top two finish to progress to the national play-offs with the top two northern teams again. Oxford City Stars (from): M Cameron, C Roberts, S Ferry, A Cox, P Donohoe, A Haigh, P Taylor, L Clifford, M Roberts, L Plasted, D Flint, J Cameron, K Abbott, G Wyatt, S Cameron, J Roberts, C Burden. THIS weekend Oxford City Under 19s travel to Bristol for their first match of the season.

First published on Tuesday 02 October 2001:

Ice hockey: Stars shining bright

Oxford City Stars turned on the style to thump Flintshire 13-0 on their own rink in the English League Cup. Against a team who finished one place ahead of Oxford in the league last season, this was expected to be a good test, but Stars were in a different class. The visitors scored after one minute through Kris Abbott and further goals came in the first quarter from James Cameron, Greg Wyatt and Derek Flint, with two in 60 seconds. The second period started with another Oxford goal, this time Wyatt converting a play involving Abbott and new defenceman Ade Haigh. Paul Donohoe and a third from Abbott put Oxford firmly in command. All of the Oxford team played well and it was no surprise when they knocked in a further three goals in five minutes, Flint (2) and Andy Cox doing the damage to put Stars 11-0 up at the second break. Oxford put in back-up netminder Chris Roberts for the third period, while Flint helped himself to two more goals. **Stars scorers: Flint 6+3, Abbott 3+5, Cameron 1+6, Donohoe 1+1, Cox 1+1, Wyatt 1+1, Haigh 0+1, Ferry 0+1.

First published on Saturday 06 October 2001:

Stars aiming to shoot down Chieftains' bid

OXFORD City Stars take on a team who are set to be one of their main rivals for a top position in the English National Ice Hockey League when they face Chelmsford Chieftains tomorrow at Oxpens Road (5.45). Chieftains have played in the Premier League for the last few seasons, but this year they have elected to play in the National League and have already beaten champions Basingstoke Buffalo. The Stars are likely to be at full strength with the return of Alex Eberhardt and Steven Cameron. A number of under 19 players may also be added to Oxford's squad. The 13-0 win at Flintshire last week has boosted their confidence, particularly as Oxford did not have a full-strength squad. Chelmsford are also on form, coming off a good win against Bracknell. Last week, both Matt Cameron and Kris Abbott turned down requests to play for England Under 20s against Invicta to play for Stars. However, call-ups for the national age group squads may start to cause problems. Oxford are still looking to strengthen the team further and at least one new player could be signed before next Saturday's home game against Flintshire. Oxford City Stars: from M Cameron, C Roberts, Ferry, Donohoe, Cox, Haigh, Taylor, Clifford, Roberts, S Cameron, Burden, Wyatt, J Cameron, Abbott, Eberhardt, Flint, M Roberts, Lay. OXFORD City Under 12s drew 2-2 with Streatham, Richard Penhale and Josh Oliver scoring their goals). Today sees Oxford City Under 14s playing Gosport (4.30), while the Under 16s take on the Isle of Wight (6.00).

First published on Tuesday 09 October 2001:

Ice hockey: Stars hit the heights

Oxford City Stars confirmed their status as one of the favourites for the English National League with a magnificent 5-1 victory over previous leaders Chelmsford Chieftains. Oxford took the lead in the eighth minute Kris Abbott, Chelmsford equalising ten minutes later while enjoying a two-man powerplay advantage. Just as it seemed the first period would be tied, Oxford managed to regain the lead in the last minute when Abbott scored his second. Stars went further ahead early in the second period through Simon Ferry and began to control the game with some flowing passing. In the third period Greg Wyatt notched Oxford's fourth goal after some fine approach work by Alex Eberhardt, and then Stars' captain Ferry, their player-of-the-match, completed the scoring from a Paul Donohoe pass.

First published on Saturday 13 October 2001:

ICE HOCKEY: Stars aim for double triumph

OXFORD City Stars will look to stamp their authority on both the English League and Cup competitions this weekend, with games against Flintshire Freeze and Basingstoke Buffalo. The double-header starts tonight in the English Cup when they take on Flintshire at Oxpens Road (5.15). Stars visited the Welsh side a fortnight ago and came away with a comfortable win, but the Freeze did achieve a creditable draw at Telford last Saturday, so it would be unwise for Oxford to get over-confident. Flintshire's top goalscorer, Mark Stokes, is likely to be missing, as he is still recovering from a wrist injury sustained at Bracknell. Tomorrow's English League Division 1 game at Basingstoke should be another test of Oxford's title potential. Buffalo are league champions, but their recent form gives Stars some cause for optimism. They recently lost to a Chelmsford side that Oxford beat comfortably last week. Basingstoke include two former Oxford players in their team including Darren Elliott who moved to the Buffalo over the summer. A successful weekend would firmly establish Stars as one of the favourites for the title, although the club are still looking to add to their squad and could add at least one more import to their roster in the near future.

First published on Thursday 18 October 2001:

Ice hockey: Stars denied a double

Oxford City Stars started their double header weekend with a 10-2 victory over Flintshire Freeze on Saturday, but were foiled the next day when their match at Basingstoke Buffalo was abandoned due to dangerous ice conditions. Stars took the first period 4-0 with goals from England Under 19 player Kris Abbott (3) and James Cameron, and the second period saw them add further goals from Abbott, Paul Donohoe and Derek Flint. Daniel Summers, making an encouraging first appearance in senior ice hockey, created a number of chances, while net- minder Chris Roberts made a string of fine stops to keep Flintshire at bay. More goals came in the third period via Ade Haigh, his first for the club, Simon Ferry and Alex Eberhardt, while the home side picked up a couple of consolations. **Stars scorers: K Abbott 4+1, J Cameron 1+2, D Flint 1+2, S Ferry 1+2, A Eberhardt 1+1, P Donohoe 1+1, A Haigh 1+0.

First published on Thursday 18 October 2001:

Ice hockey: Hole stops play

Sunday's Oxford Stars match at Basingstoke Buffalo was abandoned after a hole was discovered in the ice. The ice seemed poor but playable after it was resurfaced before the start, Stars going ahead through Gray Wyatt. Buffalo went 2-1 up before Stars drew level with Wyatt's second. With the ice deteriorating in the Oxford goal area, they conceded three quick goals in the second period and despite further resurfacing before the final period, the referee decided to abandon the match on the grounds of safety when a hole in the ice was discovered. **Stars scorers: G Wyatt 2+0, S Cameron 0+1, A Eberhardt 0+1, A Cox 0+1.

First published on Saturday 20 October 2001:

Stars looking to snare Foxes

OXFORD City Stars will be aiming to do the double when they take on Telford Wild Foxes at Oxpens Road tomorrow (5.45). Stars hold the advantage over Telford, having beaten the Shropshire side 5-1 away in the league cup, the Wild Foxes' only home defeat of the season. The game rekindles memories of last season's fiery clashes, including one where ten players were ejected. Extra spice is added by the return of Telford's ex-Oxford players Dave Fielder and James Clarke. Stars had mixed fortunes last weekend. After a 10-2 victory over Flintshire Freeze on Saturday, they started well in Sunday's top-of-the-table clash at Basingstoke Buffalo. They led early on, only for the game to be called off when a hole appeared in the ice in front of the Basingstoke goal. Stars were trailing 5-2. After complaints from the Basingstoke netminder, it was deemed too dangerous to continue and the teams will have replay the match at a later date. Oxford have a couple of injury doubts tomorrow, with Matt and Steven Cameron both suffering niggles. The former didn't play in either game last weekend. Stars are also missing Alex Eberhardt, who is in Germany this weekend. Stars are hoping to sign an established goalscorer and a strong defenceman from a British National League team, to strengthen their top two lines. Two under-19 youngsters failed to show up at Basingstoke and Stars may bring in more senior players. City Stars (from): M Cameron, C Roberts, Ferry, Donohoe, Haigh, Cox, S Cameron, J Roberts, Plasted, M Roberts, Wyatt, J Cameron, Abbott, Flint, Lay, Summers, Taylor, Clifford.

First published on Saturday 03 November 2001:

Eberhardt out as Stars seek goals

ALEX Eberhardt is missing as in-form Oxford City bid to rack up the goals in their English Ice Hockey League Division 1 double-header this weekend. Stars visit Slough today and then face Milton Keynes Thunder at Oxpens Road Rink tomorrow (5.45). But they will be without Eberhardt, who is in Germany again. Coach James Cameron snr is set to take the chance to give several youngsters the opportunity to play over the weekend. And the third line forwards can also expect to have more ice time than they did last Sunday when Stars beat Bracknell Hornets 8-5. Stars have not played either Slough or Milton Keynes this season, but form lines indicate neither of their opponents are particularly strong. So, with Oxford flying high in both league and cup, there looks to be a good chance of a couple of additions to Oxford's win column. It's hoped that it won't be much longer before England under 20 netminder Matt Cameron returns to Stars squad. He may even be involved as back-up this weekend, but he won't be rushed back from injury. In any case, Amy Johnson is continuing to do a good job in goal. Meanwhile, Stars are looking at playing their re-arranged match at Basingstoke on February 10. There is also likely to be a change of date for their cup match with Chelmsford in the New Year. Oxford City Stars: from Johnson, M Cameron, Ferry, Cox, Donohoe, Haigh, Taylor, Plasted, Parris, J Cameron, Flint, Abbott, S Cameron, Wyatt, Clifford, Roberts, Burden, Lay, Summers, Roberts, Kossick, White. OXFORD City Under 12s and under 14s take on Lee Valley today (4.30 and 6.00). Spectators are welcome and there is no entry charge.

First published on Tuesday 06 November 2001:

Ice hockey: Eight in eight for Stars

On Sunday, Stars came back from a goal down to beat Milton Keynes 6-3 to make it eight wins out of eight. Without the suspended Steven Cameron and the injured James Roberts, as well as Alex Eberhardt, youngsters Luke Plasted and Daniel Summers came in. Stars recovered well after Milton Keynes took the lead through Ferry, Haigh, Cameron, and an Abbott double. Milton Keynes then scored twice before Paul Donohoe skated the length of the ice, rounded several Thunder players, before firing home. Scorers: K Abbot 2+1, S Ferry 1+2, J Cameron 1+1, A Haigh 1+1, P Donohoe 1+0, D Flint 0+1, A Cox 0+1, PIMs 14.

First published on Tuesday 06 November 2001:

Ice hockey: Two off but Stars still eclipse rivals

Oxford City Stars Steven Cameron and Simon Ferry were sent off as trouble flared at the end of Saturday's stormy 5-0 win over Slough Hawks in English League Division 1. It all started so well for Stars, who took the opportunity to give youngsters Alex Parris and Ben Kossick their debut, with Kris Abbot scoring two minutes in after good work from James Cameron. Oxford extended their lead on eight minutes when Simon Ferry struck home, before they lost James Roberts to an ankle injury. Derek Flint and Gregy Wyatt added a goal each. It also gave 17-year-old Ben White his first point for Stars for an assist, as was Ade Haigh. The third period became increasingly tense with the referee failing to penalise fouls by Slough. Oxford capitalised on some powerplay with Abbott finishing off a move involving Flint and Paul Donohoe. With just 11 seconds to go Slough's Adrian Wheeler and Ferry were sent off for fighting, while Steven Cameron also got his marching orders. Amy Johnson became the first female player in this league with her first shut-out for the Stars, turning aside 22 shots. **Scorers: K Abbot 2+1, D Flint 1+1, S Ferry 1+0, G Wyatt 1+0, A Haigh 0+1, B White 0+1, J Cameron 0+1, P Donohoe 0+1, PIMs 74.

First published on Saturday 10 November 2001:

Ice Hockey: Stars shooting for top

Oxford City Stars are off on their travels this weekend searching for the brace of wins that would take them top of the English National League. Today sees them at Peterborough, currently bottom of the table, with Stars welcoming back Steven Cameron from his one-match ban. Alex Eberhardt is still unavailable but Matt Cameron is set to continue his comeback from injury. Tomorrow, Stars make a quick return to Milton Keynes, looking for a repeat of last Sunday's 6-3 victory. The face-off time at Milton Keynes is 6.30pm. Oxford were a little scrappy in winning last Sunday, and they will be keen to put on a better show this time around. It is likely that Oxford will take the chance to give extra ice time to some fringe players. Oxford currently lead the English Cup Southern Group and are second in the league with games in hand. Anyone looking for action at Oxford this weekend can call in at the rink today, when Stars' table-topping under 14s take on Cardiff at 4.30, with a women's match at 6.15. **Oxford City Stars (from): M Cameron, A Johnson, S Ferry, P Donohoe, A Haigh, A Cox, P Taylor, L Clifford, C Burden, J Cameron, D Flint, K Abbott, G Wyatt, S Cameron, L Plasted, B White, A Parris, D Summers.

First published on Tuesday 13 November 2001:

Ice Hockey: Stars' run halted by Thunder

Oxford's attempt to extend their winning run in the English National League to ten games came to an unexpected end at Milton Keynes on Sunday when they went down 6-5. Stars totally dominated the first period, taking it 3-2 thanks to Kris Abbott, Derek Flint and James Cameron and outshooting the opposition 24-4. Thunder levelled early in the second period, but Ben Lay regained the lead for Oxford with his first senior goal a couple of minutes later. Milton Keynes equalised late on, only for Simon Ferry to put Stars ahead again. The third period was more even and Milton Keynes equalised for the third time before snatching the winner. Stars were unhappy with referee Lawley's performance throughout the game, and when James Cameron expressed his dissatisfaction, he was assessed a game misconduct and a gross misconduct, which means he will be suspended for the next two matches. Stars scorers: D Flint 1+2, Ferry 1+1, J Cameron 1+1, K Abbott 1+0, B Lay 1+0, Cameron 0+1, G Wyatt 0+1. The previous day, Stars had maintained their winning run with an 11-3 victory at Peterborough. Despite missing a number of chances, Oxford went to the first break two goals up through Paul Donohoe and Flint. Ferry netted Stars' goal in the second quarter which Peter- borough took 2-1, and Abbott scored for Oxford in the third, while Peterborough replied once. Oxford then enjoyed a ten-minute golden spell with four goals from Flint and three from Cameron to seal the verdict. Stars scorers: D Flint 5+1, J Cameron 3+4, K Abbott 1+4, S Ferry 1+1, P Donohoe 1+1, S Cameron 0+2. OTHER RESULTS English Under 16 League South: Haringey 3, Oxford City 5. Under 14 South: Oxford City 1, Cardiff 4; Streatham 0, Oxford City 10 (R Penhale 3+2, S Broughton 2+3, S Breisner 2+3, D Dovenmuehle 2+2, J Oliver 1+1, D Sumner 0+2, S Heyte 0+1). Under 12 South: Lee Valley 3, Oxford City 3 (R Penhale 2+0, N Pryke 1+0, J Ball 0+1, H Freedman 0+1).

First published on Tuesday 20 November 2001:

Ice hockey: Super Stars shine again

Oxford City Stars maintained their 100 per cent home record in the English National League in convincing style as they thrashed Peterborough 11-3. Although the Islanders had added several players since Stars' win at Peterborough a week earlier, this was a more comfortable victory for Oxford as they took their chances early on, and were therefore able to give plenty of ice time to their fringe players. Oxford found themselves 2-0 up inside the first six minutes, netting twice on powerplays. First Ade Haigh knocked in a pass from Andy Cox, and two minutes later, Abbott doubled the lead. Lee Muxlow pulled one back for Peterborough, but the rest of the period was all Oxford as first James Cameron scored with a fine solo effort and then Derek Flint scored a quick hat-trick. The first and third were set up by Simon Ferry, and the second involved his forward partners Cameron and Abbott. This left Oxford with a 6-1 advantage at the first break. Abbott extended Oxford's lead with a powerplay goal in the first minute of the second period and then Paul Donohoe skated through to notch Oxford's eighth five minutes later. Peterborough shored up their defence in the third period, despite Cameron scoring a ninth goal for Oxford in the first minute. But the visitors hit back with a powerplay goal from Bernie Bradford. Haigh restored Oxford's eight-goal margin in the 54th minute before veteran Tim Peacock pulled Peterborough back again. But Haigh netted his third goal before the end to seal his first hat-trick for Stars. Stars scorers: D Flint 3+3, J Cameron 2+2, K Abbott 2+2, A Haigh 3+0, P Donohoe 1+1, S Ferry 0+2, A Cox 0+2, B Lay 0+1.

First published on Tuesday 27 November 2001:

Ice hockey: Oxford Stars frozen out

Oxford went down to a 6-5 defeat against a much-improved Flintshire in a hard-fought English National League match at Deeside Ice Arena. It was a completely different Flintshire side that Oxford had to face in this encounter, after two comfortable cup successes earlier in the season. The Welsh outfit are undefeated in the league and marching up the table, but Oxford's cause was not helped by the late arrival of five players at the Queensferry rink near Chester. The game started with a physical Flintshire trying to intimidate the Stars, and this tactic seemed to unsettle the Oxford team. The Freeze took an early lead through Phil Brook, and the lead was extended with a short-handed goal from Peter Founds. Oxford pulled back a goal through Andy Cox on a powerplay in the tenth minute, and early in the second period, they equalised through another powerplay when Kris Abbott knocked home a pass from Simon Ferry. But then Flintshire replied with two quick goals just before the halfway point through Brook and Dave Costelloe. Steve Slater then pulled Oxford back, but Flintshire's Aaron Davies capitalised on a mistake to restore Freeze's two goal lead. Derek Flint finished off a neat move involving James Cameron and Kris Abbott shortly before the second interval to leave Oxford trailing by one goal going into the final session. Davies notched his second for Flintshire in the final period to put them 6-4 up, before Oxford pulled back one more when debutant Slater drove through the centre of the Flintshire defence to score his second of the game. Star scorers: S Slater 2+1, A Cox 1+1, K Abbott 1+1, J Cameron 0+2, D Flint 1+0, S Ferry 0+1, P Donohoe 0+1.

First published on Tuesday 11 December 2001:

Ice hockey: Stars' brawl

Seven players were sent off following a mass brawl as Oxford City Stars gained revenge over Flintshire Freeze with an 11-3 victory in the English National League at the Oxpens Road rink. Mayhem broke out late in the third period after leaders Oxford were given a delayed penalty. As the Flintshire netminder left the ice (to allow them an extra attacker), he sticked Alex Eberhardt, cutting him in the face. Eberhardt reacted and a mass brawl broke out, leading to the seven dismissals, although the netminder only received a two-minute minor penalty. Kris Abbott had struck twice to give Stars an early advantage, and Derek Flint and James Cameron also netted as Oxford finished the first period 4-1 up, Steve Fellows scoring for Freeze. Ben Lay and Derek Flint were on target for Oxford in a tighter second period. Oxford wrapped up victory in the final period, with Abbott taking his tally to four, Flint completing a hat-trick and Simon Ferry and Eberhardt also netting. Peter Founds and Simon Wedd replied for Flintshire before the match came to a stormy finish. Oxford City Stars: D Flint 3+4, K Abbott 4+0, J Cameron 1+3, S Ferry 1+2, A Eberhardt 1+0, B Lay 1+0, A Cox 0+1, S Slater 0+1, G West 0+1. Oxford stay top of the Southern group in the English National League Cup following a 9-9 draw at Chelmsford Chieftains. Stars, who were hit by Ade Haigh and Glen West failing to turn up, made a disastrous start, going three goals down in the first 36 seconds, with Jon Beckett, Billy Rawles and Dan Wright on target. Ferry pulled a goal back, but Chieftains notched another through Paul Teed. Stars hauled themselves back into the game in the second period, with Abbott scoring twice and Ferry completing his hat-trick plus a Flint strike. But Chieftains still finished the period 7-6 in front thanks to goals from Ross Jones, Andy Clements and Richard Whiting. Stars had the edge in the final period to earn a draw with Ferry getting his fourth, and Eberhardt and Flint also netting. Shaun Wallis and Michael Bredican were Chieftains' scorers. Oxford City Stars: S Ferry 4+0, D Flint 2+4, K Abbott 2+3, J Cameron 0+3, A Eberhardt 1+0, J Roberts 0+1.

First published on Saturday 15 December 2001:

Stars reign in top spot

OXFORD City Stars, without a game this weekend, sit proudly at the top of the English National League. Stars also lead the way in the cup standings. With Stars' success, more players are expressing an interest in joining the team, and further signings are likely later in the season. RICHARD Penhale scored all four goals as Oxford City drew 4-4 at second-placed Guildford in the English Under 12 League South. He hit a hat-trick in the first period, and added a fourth in the second.

First published on Saturday 22 December 2001:

Trio are ruled out for Stars

OXFORD City Stars have been hit by unavailability as they prepare to take on Telford Wild Foxes in the English National Cup at Oxpens Ice Rink tomorrow (5.45pm). Derek Flint (in Canada), Alex Eberhardt (in Germany) and Simon Ferry (suspended) are all missing for Stars, who also have doubts about the availability of other players. Oxford, who have inflicted Telford's only defeats this season, top the cup's southern group, and will be keen to maintain their position. Telford are likely to be missing captain Phil Wooderson after he suffered an arm injury in a 'friendly' match between a Milton Keynes select team and Cambridge University. The Wild Foxes, who are in good form following a win at Basingstoke, are set to include former Oxford players James Clarke and Dave Fielder. Oxford City Stars: from M Cameron, Johnson, S Cameron, Cox, Lay, Grocutt, Clifford, Taylor, Roberts, Haigh, Donohoe, Slater, West, J Cameron, Abbott, Plasted.

First published on Friday 28 December 2001:

Ice hockey: Stars' in cup calamity

Oxford City Stars were thankful that they only lost 12-1 against Telford Wild Foxes in the English Cup, after a massive unavailability crisis forced the team to ice several new faces. There were no fewer than 12 regulars out of action for various reasons and Stars were forced to call up a number of under 19 and 16 players. The only regular first-teamers available were Kris Abbott, Paul Donohoe and Ade Haigh, the latter playing most of the game despite suffering with an injury, and overall, Stars did remarkably well to keep the scoring down. Telford's goals came through Adam Brittle (6), Jared Owen (2), Ashley Stanton, Dave Fielder, Dean Campbell and James Clarke. Oxford started with Amy Johnson in goal, and ended the first period trailing 7-0. Matt Cameron then took over in goal as Telford took the next two 3-0 and 2-1. Oxford's goal was an unassisted shot on a powerplay by Haigh. Stars hope to be back to near full strength at home to Bracknell on January 6.

First published on Tuesday 08 January 2002:

Ice hockey: Stars back with a bang

Oxford City Stars started the New Year with a 12-5 victory over Bracknell Hornets in the English National Cup on Sunday. With no fewer than nine players returning to the team after missing the Telford game two weeks ago, Stars took their time to get going but were comfortable winners. They took the lead through Kris Abbott after two minutes and extended it five minutes later via Simon Ferry, before Bracknell hit back to tie the period at 2-2. After James Cameron was ejected from the game for his comments to the referee about Bracknell's disruptive tactics, Stars scored early in the second period with a powerplay goal from Ferry, only for Hornets to snatch the lead with two goals. Oxford equalised just before the halfway mark when Derek Flint opened his account for the afternoon, then Glen West put Stars back into the lead in the 33rd minute. Two more goals in the last three minutes of the period from Glen West and Abbott saw end the session with a 7-4 advantage. The third period saw Oxford well on top and further goals followed from Ade Haigh, Flint (2), Paul Donohoe and Andy Cox. Stars scorers : D Flint 3+3, G West 2+3, K Abbott 2+2, S Ferry 2+1, A Haigh 1+2, A Cox 1+2, P Donohoe 1+2, A Aberhardt 0+1, J Cameron 0+1.

First published on Saturday 12 January 2002:

Ice hockey: Stars ready for test

Oxford City Stars will look to consolidate their position at the top of the English National League at Chelmsford tomorrow, and should ice their strongest line-up of the season. With the exception of the suspended James Cameron, Stars are at full strength, with two players set to make their debuts. Jeff Sinnott's international clearance has come through while Andy Johnston has signed from Bracknell. Most of Oxford's games over the next six weeks are against other teams vying for positions at the top of the league, and wins are now vital so it is good timing to be going into this period with the strongest squad Stars have had for some years. There is a league meeting tomorrow at Trent Bridge, with Nottingham and Oxford invited to join the Premier Division next season. But with more foreign players needed, the key factor will be finances, as substantial sponsorship would be required to run a viable and successful team. With three players in the England under 19 squad, it could be a sensible move for development, although not so helpful for the introduction of other youngsters to senior hockey. Oxford City Stars: from M Cameron, A Johnson, J Sinnott, S Ferry, S Cameron, A Cox, A Haigh, P Donohoe, K Abbott, D Flint, G West, A Johnston, S Slater, H Grocutt, B Lay, A Eberhardt, P Taylor, L Clifford, J Roberts.

First published on Tuesday 15 January 2002:

Ice hockey: Shooting Stars outshine rivals

Oxford City Stars won 5-0 at Chelmsford on Sunday, beating a team that was only four points behind them in the league, with a game in hand before the match. Stars took their strongest squad for some time with only James Cameron (suspension) and Steve Slater (injury) missing, while Jeff Sinnott made his debut. The game was close fought in the early stages with Oxford using three lines of players and rotating spare players onto the third line as well. While both sides had chances, the netminders were both in fine form, and the first break came with no score on the board. The second period saw Oxford gain control and Ben Lay scored five minutes into the session, when set up by Steve Cameron to put them ahead. Two minutes later, Alex Eberhardt burst through and put a shot between the keeper's legs for Stars' second, Pete Taylor getting his first assist of the season on this goal. Oxford played out the rest of the period reasonably comfortably, despite some late Chelmsford pressure, to go into the second interval with a 2-0 lead. The Chieftains kept battling, but early in the third period Oxford made things look more comfortable when Kris Abbott put a wristshot into the top corner after a sweet passing move involving Derek Flint and Glen West. Stars stayed on top for much of the period, although Chelmsford never gave up, and late in the period, when Stars were playing some exhibition stuff, Abbot scored a solo effort, cutting back and squeezing between two Chelmsford defencemen before flicking the puck past netminder Wilcock. Oxford were maintaining possession and spraying passes rink-wide with Chelmsford chasing shadows. In the final minute of the game, Paul Donohoe broke down the right wing, and as the Chieftains defence went with the forwards bursting in on goal, he picked out Ade Haigh following up behind, who launched the puck high into the net to put a seal on the win. Matt Cameron picked up the player of the match award, as he turned aside 36 shots for his shutout, including several fine saves. Stars scorers: K Abbott 2+0, A Everhardt 1+1, P Donohoe 0+2, B Lay 1+0, A Haigh 1+0, S Cameron 0+1, G West 0+1, P Taylor 0+1, D Flint 0+1.

First published on Tuesday 22 January 2002:

Ice Hockey: Buffalo stampede Stars

Oxford City Stars' unbeaten home record in the English National League was blown away as they went down 8-5 to Basingstoke Buffalo at the Oxpens Road Rink. Stars were two up inside three minutes through Steven Cameron and Derek Flint. Simon Beere pulled a goal back for Basingstoke following a defensive error. But Stars restored their two-goal lead when Steven Cameron grabbed his second, before having to leave the game shortly afterwards with a broken nose. Basingstoke's Leigh Baker and Eberhardt then traded long-range goals, leaving Oxford 4-2 ahead. Buffalo, one of Oxford's rivals for a play-off place, stunned Stars with three goals in a minute midway through the second period, with Dean Phillimore, Drew Campbell and Mark Jordan doing the damage. Oxford levelled through Kris Abbott, but he was then forced out of the match through injury, along with Paul Donohoe. Anthony Page put Basingstoke back into the lead in the first minute of the third period, and Beere completed his hat-trick with two further goals to seal Oxford's fate. Stars scorers: S Cameron 2+0, Eberhardt 1+1, Flint 1+1, Abbott 1+0, J Cameron 0+2, Johnston 0+2, Lay 0+1.

First published on Saturday 26 January 2002:

Ice hockey: Stars eye fresh faces

Oxford City Stars are hoping to bring in new faces in a quest to tighten up their leaky defence. Seven of the eight goals they conceded in last week's defeat by Basingstoke Buffalo were down to bad defensive errors. Stars have already spoken to two British National League defencemen, and one or two new signings could arrive at the club before the transfer deadline of January 31. Oxford take on Chelmsford Chieftains tomorrow in an important English National Cup match (5.45pm) that may decide which of the two teams makes the semi-finals. Oxford won 5-0 in a league match at Chelmsford two weeks ago, but Chelmsford returned to winning ways against Slough last weekend. Oxford will be hoping that Kris Abbott, Paul Donohoe and Steve Cameron are fit to play after all three missed the game against Basingstoke, but it is likely that at least one of them will be missing. Things are hotting up at the top of the table. Oxford, Telford, Flintshire, Basingstoke and Chelmsford are battling it out for the play-off spots that go to league winners and runners-up. The play-off qualifiers then take on the top two from the northern section for the national championship. Oxford City Stars: from M Cameron (NM), A Johnson (NM), J Sinnott, S Ferry, A Cox, P Donohoe, S Cameron, A Johnston, A Eberhardt, B Lay, K Abbott, D Flint, J Cameron, P Taylor, J Roberts, L Clifford, J Grocutt.

First published on Tuesday 29 January 2002:

Ice hockey: Flint's double strike seals Stars' cup win

Oxford City Stars rediscovered the winning formula with an 8-3 victory over Chelmsford Chieftains at the Oxpens Road Rink in their last English National Cup qualifier. The win gives Oxford a great chance of reaching the semi-finals, where they would face a northern team. Pete Taylor and Jeff Sinnott scored their first goals of the season to set Oxford on the way, before Derek Flint added a third to put them 3-0 ahead at the first break. Late in the period, Stars' Andy Cox suffered a dislocated shoulder after he was hooked down and fell heavily, while Chelmsford also lost a player with a suspected broken collar-bone during the session. The second period began with a powerplay goal for Chelmsford from their top scorer Richard Whiting, before Oxford restored their three-goal cushion with a neat finish from Ben Lay. The lead was extended further when Taylor doubled his tally, but Chelmsford's Tom Long scored straight after a face off to make it 5-2. James Cameron hit No 6 for Stars in the third period, and Flint struck again, with another powerplay goal, to make the result safe. Lay scored his second of the match for Stars, but Chelmsford had the last word when Jon Beckett netted on a powerplay. Oxford City Stars' scorers: B Lay 2+2, P Taylor 2+1, D Flint 2+0, J Cameron 1+1, J Roberts 0+2, S Ferry 0+2, J Sinnott 1+0, K Abbott 0+1, A Eberhardt 0+1. OTHER RESULTS Under 10 Challenge: Invicta 3, Oxford/Guildford 9. English Under 12 League South: Invicta (Gillingham) 2, Oxford City 6 (R Penhale 5+1, H Freedman 1+1, T Loake 0+1).

First published on Wednesday 30 January 2002:

Ice hockey: Stars qualify for semis

Oxford City Stars victory over Chelmsford Chieftains on Sunday means they have qualified for the semi-finals of the English National League Cup. With two teams qualifying only Telford can now catch Oxford in the Southern Group. The Northern semi-finalists will be two from Whitley Bay, Altrincham, Billingham, Kingston (Hull) and Billingham (Middlesbrough).

First published on Tuesday 05 February 2002:

Ice hockey: Stars too strong for Gown

Oxford City Stars pipped Oxford University 11-8 in the annual Town v Gown contest at Oxford Ice Rink. Stars, icing a team without regulars James Cameron, Simon Ferry, Ade Haigh, Alex Eberhardt, Steven Cameron and Josh Grocutt, took the chance to give Under 19 player Alan Green and new signing Andy Morgan their debuts. The game began well enough for the Town team, with Derek Flint notching a short-handed goal in the fourth minute. The University equalised with a powerplay effort from Jason Nadeau within a minute, but Stars pulled back ahead with goals from Kris Abbott and Flint again before the students scored three in a couple of minutes through Nadeau, Daniel Colegate and Stephen Wagner. Stars equalised through Flint's third goal, only for the University to go 6-4 up before the first break with goals from Jon Quong and Colegate. Stars put Matt Cameron into the nets for the second period and five minutes into the session Andy Cox scored their fifth. University captain Daniel Farewell netted on a powerplay but then Oxford City scored three unanswered goals to take the lead, the first two from Ben Lay and the third from Kris Abbott. Farewell scored his second for the University to level the scores with six minutes remaining in the period, but then Andy Morgan regained the advantage for Stars. The third period belonged to Stars as Flint scored his fourth and Jeff Sinnott also found the target. Scorers - Oxford University: J Nadeau 2+2, D Colegate 2+1, D Farewell 2+0, S Wagner 1+3, J Quong 1+0, N Drum 0+2, M Lewans 0+1. Stars: D Flint 4+1, B Lay 2+2, K Abbott 2+0, J Sinnott 1+3, A Cox 1+1, A Morgan 1+0, M Cameron 0+1. In the women's match, Oxford City Zodiacs saw off the Dark Blues 5-1 with goals from Polly Smart, Becky Cooke (2), Emily Fermor and Mel Hanna, with Felicity Bulmer replying. Scorers - Oxford University: F Bulmer 1+0, A Cummins 0+1, C Murray 0+1. Oxford City Zodiacs: B Cooke 2+0, E Fermor 1+0, P Smart 1+0, M Hanna 1+0, K Featonby 0+2, M Boardman 0+1, B Dupont 0+1, L Thompson 0+1, D Capon 0+1, S Clark 0+1.

First published on Saturday 09 February 2002:

Ice hockey: Stars in crunch test

Oxford City Stars visit Basingstoke in an English League match tomorrow which could go a long way to deciding whether they reach the semi-finals. Alex Eberhardt, Ade Haigh, James Cameron, Steve Cameron, Simon Ferry and Josh Grocutt all return to the Stars team after missing Stars' 11-8 win over Oxford University in last week's Town v Gown match. But Paul Donohoe is still struggling with injury and is unlikely to ice. Oxford City Stars: from M Cameron, Johnson, Ferry, Morgan, Sinnott, Haigh, Clifford, Lay, Roberts, Eberhardt, Taylor, Cox, Johnston, S Cameron, Flint, Abbott, J Cameron, Green.

First published on Tuesday 12 February 2002:

Ice Hockey: Beaten Stars fume at referee

Oxford City Stars are to complain to the National League about the referee following a number of disputed decisions which led to mayhem in the closing stages of their 4-2 defeat away to Basingstoke Buffalo. The home side were leading 4-2 with only a couple of minutes left, when Stars' Andy Cox was checked from behind, head first, into the boards right in front of the referee, who took no action against this dangerous move. Moments later, Stars' Simon Ferry was given a minor penalty for tripping when he dived across the ice to knock the puck away and a Basingstoke player then fell over him. Ferry disputed the call and was ejected, and as he tried to get back to the dressing room, he was knocked off his feet by a linesman. As Ferry left the ice, Stars' Derek Flint went across and had words with the referee and was promptly ejected along with teammate Jeff Sinnott. At the final whistle, the referee apparently assessed a game misconduct on Stars' Ade Haigh for something said to him after the game. In the game itself, Basingstoke got their second win over Oxford in three weeks. Unlike the first game when defensive errors proved costly for Stars, this time their finishing let them down as they could score only two goals from 46 on-target shots (nearly twice as many as Basingstoke). In the second period, the visitors outshot Basingstoke 24 to eight and lost the session 2-0! Simon Ferry put Stars ahead at the end of the first session, but Drew Campbell netted twice for the Buffalos in the second. The third period saw Basingstoke score through Adam Cathcart. Oxford pulled one back when James Cameron scored, but Anthony Page's goal sealed it for the home side. Oxford City Stars: S Ferry 1+0, J Cameron 0+1, D Flint 0+2. PIMs 108. Alex Parris scored six of the seven goals in Oxford City Under 16s win over Lee Valley, while Richard Penhale fired home eight of Oxford City Under 12s goals in their 11-9 win over Solent.

First published on Tuesday 19 February 2002:

Ice hockey: Stars sneak win in final home game

Oxford City Stars ended their home programme in the English League on a high note as they defeated Invicta Mustangs 5-4. But after charging to a 5-1 lead, they were made to suffer a nerve-jangling final period, which remained goalless, to ensure victory in their final game at Oxpens Road. With Simon Ferry and Ade Haigh suspended, and injuries ruling out several others, it gave Stars a chance to ice some fringe players. Oxford opened the scoring after a minute when Andy Johnston deflected home a shot from Jeff Sinnott on the powerplay. Midway through the period, Oxford extended their lead with a short-handed goal from Derek Flint, who was set up by Paul Donohoe and James Cameron. Kris Abbott scored in the first minute of the second period, but Invicta pulled one back through Kevin Lake. Flint restored Stars' three goal advantage in the 35th minute before Invicta pulled back again with a Jamie Smith goal. Oxford notched another powerplay effort, this time through Paul Donohoe, on 38 minutes to make it 5-1, but the goal rush was not over, Andy Martin and Peter Beerling converting penalties for Invicta. It was suddenly looking far from comfortable for Stars, who ended the period with just a one-goal lead. But the third period was scoreless - a rarity in a Stars match, and although there were some nervy moments, Oxford kept control to hold on for the victory. Oxford City Stars' scorers: D Flint 2+2, J Cameron 0+4, P Donohoe 1+1, K Abbott 1+0, Johnston 1+0, J Sinnott 0+1, P Taylor 0+1.

First published on Saturday 23 February 2002:

It's do-or-die for Stars

OXFORD City Stars visit Telford Wild Foxes in a win-or-bust English National Ice Hockey League clash tonight (5.30). Stars are right back in the running for a top-two finish and a play-off place after last weekend's results. However, they must win at Telford to have a chance and their prospects have been hit with Simon Ferry and Ade Haigh suspended, Steve Cameron, Steve Slater, Glen West and Ben Lay injured, and doubts over the availability of James Cameron and Andy Morgan. Stars have beaten Telford twice this season - in the cup and league - while Wild Foxes have a cup verdict over the Oxford team. Oxford City Stars: from M Cameron, Johnson, Sinnott, Clifford, Donohoe, Morgan, Roberts, Abbott, J Cameron, Flint, Johnston, Grocutt, Cox, Taylor, Lay, Green, Plasted, Parris.

First published on Tuesday 26 February 2002:

Ice hockey: Oxford crash in finale

Oxford City Stars' English National League season ended in disappointing fashion as they crashed to a 10-1 defeat at Telford. With a squad weakened by injury, suspension and unavailability, Oxford iced a first line of Josh Grocutt, Ben Lay, Kris Abbott, Jeff Sinnott and James Roberts, while the remaining players, Paul Donohoe, Andy Johnston, Pete Taylor, Lewis Clifford and Andy Cox made up the second line. Stars took the lead in the first period through Andy Johnston, but Telford scored twice to end the period with a 2-1 lead. Telford went on to win the second and third periods by 4-0 scorelines. Oxford used Matt Cameron in nets for the first half of the game than gave Amy Johnson the rest of the match. Oxford maintained their second position in English Under 14 League South with a comfortable 5-1 win over Streatham on Saturday. Oxford took a 3-0 lead in the first period through Sam Broughton (2) and Daniel Dovenmuehle. Streatham pulled one back in the second session but Dovenmuehle and Broughton each scored again to seal the win. Scorers: S Broughton 3+1, D Dovenmuehle 2+0, R Penhale 0+1, J Oliver 0+1. Scorers: A Parris 4+1, L Plasted 2+1, E Chalmers 2+0, N Oliver 1+1, D Hurn 1+0, M Breisner 0+2, M Poulter 0+1, F Hurrell 0+1, P Knightley 0+1, T Janes 0+1.

First published on Tuesday 12 March 2002:

Ice hockey: Ferry's ban is lifted Oxford City Stars have received a boost by the lifting of an indefinite ban on Simon Ferry. The Stars captain was originally suspended for allegedly striking a linesman. However, an English Ice Hockey Association appeal hearing ruled the ban would be lifted at the end of the season. The suspension due to be reviewed in August next year, following the incident during a game at Basingstoke on February 10. At the hearing, the defence agreed there was contact between the player and the official. But the appeal board accepted there was no punch thrown, or aggression used in the contact. The suspension has now been reduced to a ban to the end of this season - effectively three to five matches. This is more normally the length of suspension after ejection for verbal abuse of officials, and Ferry did admit to swearing at officials. Basingstoke player Darren Elliott gave evidence on Ferry's behalf. **OXFORD University women beat Cambridge 2-0 in the Varsity Match at Oxpens, with goals from Jamie Waller and Alice Rothnie. However, the Dark Blues' men crashed 8-1 to Cambridge after drawing the first period 1-1.