Details to Follow

Details to Follow.

Details to Follow.

Details to follow.

The 2002 Season was a sad season for the Stars as they struggled to, and were eventually unable to form a team before the start of the season. The following extracts have been taken from reports in the Oxford Mail.

First published on Saturday 14 September 2002:

Stars' salvage mission fails

A LAST-gasp salvage operation to prevent the Oxford City Stars withdrawing from the English National ICE Hockey League has failed. The club revealed last week that they were pulling out of the league for the forthcoming 2002-03 season, because of a shortage of players. The English Ice Hockey Association then gave the club extra time to bolster their squad, but their attempts to do so have failed. A club statement said: "There were various occasions last season, when the management struggled to raise a reasonable strength team for games. "Over the summer some additional players were recruited, giving the talent level to make a serious challenge for the English League Championship, but unfortunately some of the reliable back-up players from last season moved on. "There was a telephone conversation in which two options were suggested to EIHA chairman Ken Taggart. "One was immediate withdrawal from the league and the other was postponement of a couple of games to give more time to try and sign players. "He went for the first as he thought that there was little likelihood of being able to recruit reliable players given the shortage of locally-based talent." The EIHA was informed of the withdrawal in writing on Tuesday, September 3. The withdrawal was, however, put on hold by the EIHA, when one of the Stars squad appealed for more time to try and recruit players. But the club finally admitted defeat this week. The club intend to return to the league next season, and in the meantime hope to play friendly matches against other ENHL teams using a mixture of senior and junior players. The statement continued: "The fundamental problem in Oxford is the lack of committed, locally-based players. "Very few have continued to play seriously, after leaving the age group teams over the last decade or so. "Ironically, the current under 19 squad probably has more players ambitious to continue into senior hockey than has been the case for several years."

First published on Thursday 26 September 2002:

Ice hockey: Bulls take up the mantle from City Stars

A new ice hockey side has emerged from the ashes of Oxford City Stars, who folded last month due to a shortage of players. The new outfit are the Oxford Bulls, who will play challenge matches throughout the season and also enter national recreational level tournaments. Player-manager David Wallington said: "The recreational tournaments are set up for players who enjoy hockey, but can't commit to a full league programme. "The recent collapse of the Stars and the lack of development locally for players over the age of 19 means this is an ideal time for the team to come together and will also allow ice hockey fans in Oxford to watch games at Oxpens Road. "This season will be a learning curve for the team, but we do aim to win things this year and will be undertaking a full challenge match programme." The Bulls' first game will be against Slough Tornadoes on October 20. The players will include many who have played for the Stars in the past, plus a number of locally-based overseas players who have joined the squad. Wallington added: "I was impressed with the numbers of players wanting to play hockey in Oxford but had no team to play for. "If anyone wants to come down and join in, training sessions are held every Monday night at 11pm at the Oxpens Road rink." Oxford Bulls squad: D Wallington, J Schall, K Biggs, D Flint, D Williams, M Copping, G Copping, K Horseman, M Williams, P Crockett, D Last, E MacKenzie, N Taylor, D Taylor, A Hadden, R Williams, M Williams, J Rance, R Miles, N Simone, A Rothnie.

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.

English League South – 3rd Position

English National League Play-offs – 2nd Position in South

English National League Championship Play-offs – Semi-Finalist

	P	W	T	L	F	A	Pts
Oxford City Stars	14	9	0	5	104	72	18

The following articles set out the season using quotes and reports from the local newspaper, The Oxford Mail.

First published on Tuesday 11 July 2000:

Ice hockey: The Stars rise again.

by This is Oxfordshire

The future of Oxford City Stars and Oxford ice hockey looks bright with new sponsorship secured from Invesco and Sportswatch, writes Colin Kirby. Invesco, the world's second largest fund managing company, are already involved in grass roots sponsorship of rugby and football. Sportsmatch is a Government scheme committed to developing and encouraging youth involvement in sport. Invesco's four-figure donation will provide 100 team shirts throughout Oxford City Ice Hockey Club's age groups and also help new recruits to the sport with start-up kit costs. Sportsmatch will provide 25 basic sets of kit for special 'Stick and Puck' sessions for any youngsters keen to sample ice hockey for the first time. City coach James Cameron said: "We are committed to giving local youngsters a chance to join our very successful youth sections and Invesco and Sportsmatch will help to remove some of the start-up costs for anyone wanting to try the sport. "On a Sunday before the day's main game we will give 25 kids a 40-minute session which will just cost them 2.50 including admission to the main game. "The new senior Oxford City Stars team will largely be made up of locally-trained youngsters and we see that involvement increasing over the seasons. "We are very grateful to the sponsors and Oxford City Leisure for their backing which really opens up the sport in Oxford to anyone who wants to give it a try." The Stars team's return to the English National League is fast approaching, with the first home game on September 3. They will play 13 home league and cup games and admission will be 3 for adults and 1.50 for children and students. The division will consist of nine teams from Oxford, Bracknell, Flintshire, Peterborough, Slough, Basingstoke, Birmingham, Telford and Milton Keynes, with the latter four also joining Stars in a cup qualifying competition.

First published on Saturday 29 July 2000:

Flint set to provide the spark for Stars

by This is Oxfordshire

OXFORD City Stars have now received their English National Ice Hockey League fixtures and, with most of their squad signed up, are raring to go. Although the Stars will comprise mainly a young home-grown squad, a few older, more experienced heads will pass on their expertise. These are led by Canadian-born Derek Flint, veteran defenceman Trevor Joseph and exciting young forward Darren Elliott, who have all previously played for Oxford. Coach James Cameron is happy with his line-up and is already putting them through their paces. He said: "We have some very promising young players who are keen to play for Oxford, such as Glen and Chris West and Brett Canden up front, and Ben Williams and James Roberts on defence. "There's a strong family connection with the coach's sons, Steve and James junior, chasing goals and brother Matt helping the other netminder, Chris Roberts, to stop them. Stars' first game is on Sunday, September 3 at home to Basingstoke Buffalo at 5.45 pm and with admission only 3 for seniors and 1.50 for children and students, they hope to welcome old and new fans to cheer in the new era.

Fixtures

Sun Sep 3 v BASINGSTOKE BUFFALO. Sun Sep 10 v MILTON KEYNES. Sun Sep 17 v Basingstoke Buffalo (5.30). Sat Sep 23 v Peterborough Titans (6.00). Sun Sep 24v BIRMINGHAM ROCKETS (English Cup). Sun Oct 1 v Telford Tiger Royals (4.30). Sun Oct 8 v BRACKNELL HORNETS. Sun Oct 15 v Bracknell Hornets (6.00). Sun Oct 22 v TELFORD TIGER ROYALS (English Cup). Sun Oct 29 v Milton Keynes (6.30). Sun Nov 6 v BIRMINGHAM ROCKETS. Sat Nov 18 v Birmingham Rockets (5.00, English Cup). Sun Nov 19 v Slough Harrier Hawks (5.45) Sun Dec 3 v TELFORD TIGER ROYALS. Sat Dec 9 v Birmingham Rockets (5.00). Sun Dec 10 v PETERBOROUGH TITANS. Sun Dec 17 v Flintshire Freeze (6.30). Sun Jan 7 v Milton Keynes (English Cup, 6.30). Sun Jan 14 v SLOUGH HARRIER HAWKS. Sun Jan 28 v MILTON KEYNES (English Cup). Sun Feb 4 v FLINTSHIRE FREEZE. Sun Feb 11 v Telford Tiger Royals (English Cup, 4.30).

First published on Friday 01 September 2000:

Ice hockey: Donohoe's back to boost Stars

by This is Oxfordshire

Oxford City Stars have signed their former favourite Paul Donohoe as they prepare for the big face-off against Basingstoke Buffalo in the English National League on Sunday (5.45), writes Colin Kirby. Coach James Cameron, who is still looking to strengthen Stars' squad further, was delighted by the new signing. "Paul is a good experienced forward and his qualities will help to bring on our exciting young players," he said. "I am still looking around for one or two key players and may add to the squad before Sunday. "It's a tough opener for us as Basingstoke are expected to be one of our main rivals as we aim for the title, but we have been training hard and have a very capable squad which should provide some great entertaining hockey for the fans to watch."

First published on Saturday 02 September 2000:

ICE HOCKEY: Stars put faith in youngsters.

by This is Oxfordshire

THE waiting is over for Oxford City Stars as they host Basingstoke Buffalo in the English National League tomorrow (5.45).Youth will be to the fore as Oxford build for the future under coach James Cameron. He said: "We have some great young players here at Oxford and will give as many as possible a chance to play senior hockey during the season. "Five of the under 19 side are joining the main squad each game and some of the best under 16s will also get plenty of chances. "We have a skilled squad with a bit of steel and experience supplied by popular Oxford players of the past such as Trevor Joseph , Darren Elliott, Paul Donohoe and Derek Flint who misses this opener as he is still back home in Canada. "These players will give their all for Oxford and we hope the fans will turn out in numbers to witness the return of senior hockey and enjoy some exciting action. "This will be a tough opener for Stars as Basingstoke just missed out on the league title last season and include two overseas imports.

First published on Monday 25 September 2000:

Full-strength Stars bid to break their duck

by This is Oxfordshire

OXFORD City Stars will be at full strength for the first time this weekend and are confident of breaking their duck in a double-header of ice hockey matches. James Cameron jnr and Derek Flint are back in the squad at Peterborough in English League Division 1 today (6pm) and at home to Birmingham Rockets in the English Trophy tomorrow (5.45). Coach James Cameron was encouraged by the performance in last week's narrow 5-3 defeat at Basingstoke. "We performed well and worked hard. Peter Nyman was outstanding in winning the man-of-the-match award," said Cameron. Birmingham include former Oxford player Gareth Roddis in their squad and will be a very hard physical side, but Stars can counter that with Swedish giant international Peter Nyman, a 6ft 4in defenceman. Nyman notched two goals and one assist at Basingstoke and Stars feel they are ready to turn the corner by recording their first victory of the season.

First published on Tuesday 26 September 2000:

Ice Hockey: Super Stars double up.

by This is Oxfordshire

Oxford City Stars hit top form with outstanding wins 14-2 away to Peterborough in the English National League and 11-2 at home to Birmingham Rockets in the English Cup over the weekend, writes Colin Kirby. Stars outshone the opposition in both matches, with their younger players excelling. A tight, disciplined team showing in the face of extreme provocation at Peterborough saw Paul Donohoe led the way with four goals and six assists. Derek Flint and for Scott Gough both scored three goals and Danny Turner, Glenn and Chris West and James Roberts also got on the scoresheet. The younger players grew in confidence against Birmingham. The visitors took an early lead but with Matt Cameron expertly guarding the Oxford goal, Andy Goddard, Glen West and Peter Nyman, with a stunning slapshot on the turn, built a comfortable first-period lead. Stars lay siege to the visitors' goal in the second period, and despite shots pinging off the posts from Gough, Nyman and Joseph, Rockets were shot down with markers from Flint (3), Nyman , Danny Turner and Glen West. Pride of place, however, must go to under 16 player Matt Roberts, who scored twice. There were no further Oxford goals as Birmingham tried to rough up the game, only to find Stars in no mood to concede. Coach James Cameron said: "It's getting better by the game. On Saturday, Paul Donohoe, Scott Gough and Derek Flint were outstanding, and Andrew Cox, at 18, showed he is an international player for the future. "For Matt Roberts to come in from the under 16s and cap a great display with two goals on Sunday showed again the potential in this squad."

First published on Saturday 30 September 2000:

Youthful Stars all set to shine

by This is Oxfordshire

OXFORD City Stars take their winning form on the road tomorrow when they travel to Telford Royals in ice hockey's English National League.It will be something of a reunion, as Telford include former Oxford players James Clarke and David Fielder, the latter briefly coach at Oxford Blades last season.Oxford's faith in youth is now paying dividends as they produced some stylish entertaining hockey in last weekend's brace of victories.It should hopefully be a near full-strength squad which travels to Shropshire, with Ibrihim, McGurk and James Cameron Jnr all having recovered from injuries.But Darren Elliott, whose broken finger has yet to heal, will be sidelined a little while longer.

First published on Tuesday 03 October 2000:

Ice hockey: Outclassed Stars hit by ref's ruling

by This is Oxfordshire

Oxford City Stars turned in a below-par performance as they went down 7-1 away to Telford Royals in the English National League, writes Colin Kirby. Stars' cause was not helped by the absence of Swedish defenceman Peter Nyman and a bizarre ruling by referee Evans that kept Derek Flint sidelined for almost half the game. Nyman has been loaned to Basingstoke Bison as cover for two weeks, a contractual obligation that was part of the deal that brought him to Oxford. The new rule limiting overseas players on the ice was interpreted by the referee to mean that Flint could not play when any of his teammates was serving a penalty, a point strongly challenged by Oxford. Former Oxford player James Clarke opened the scoring against a fragile Stars defence and they trailed 2-0 at the end of the first period. Oxford's best form came in the second period, outshooting their hosts but failing to make their shots count apart from Gough's well-taken strike as Telford added two further goals. The game ebbed away from Oxford in the final period with three unanswered goals, including Clarke's second. Oxford struggled to compete with Telford's excessive aggression which continued after the final buzzer with two Telford players throwing punches during the end-of-game handshakes. Coach James Cameron was not happy after the game. "The referee didn't know the rules and we missed Peter Nyman," he said. "We had no leader to look to and lacked fire and commitment. We still need more defencemen and that something we hope to address soon."

First published on Saturday 07 October 2000:

Stars booster as Grocutt signs on

by This is Oxfordshire

OXFORD City Stars have signed utility player Josh Grocutt, who comes into their squad for tomorrow's English League Division 1 ice hockey game at home to Bracknell Hornets (5.45).Stars' coach James Cameron was pleased with his latest capture. "Josh is a big six-foot 20-year-old who had a short spell with Oxford Blades last season and has since been playing and working over in Boston. He will be a very useful addition to our strength. "Swedish defenceman Peter Nyman misses his second and final game as he is completing his contractual agreement to help out Basingstoke Bison on loan during their injury crisis, while Darren Elliott, Andy McGurk and James Cameron jnr are still nursing injuries. Oxford have lodged an appeal against last week's 7-1 loss at Telford on the grounds that the referee broke the rules by keeping Derek Flint off the ice for 27 minutes when his teammates were serving penalties. Coach Cameron said: "The initial response from other leading officials we have spoken to has been disbelief that the ref could make such a huge blunder. The English Ice Hockey Association are meeting this Sunday when our case will be discussed. "What we want is the game to be replayed. The whole thing left us feeling cheated. "Meanwhile, Bracknell Hornets include Canadian netminder Mike Somerfeld, who has played for their Superleague team Bracknell Bees, at Oxpens tomorrow.

First published on Tuesday 10 October 2000:

Ice Hockey: Depleted Stars lose thriller.

by This is Oxfordshire

Injury-ravaged Oxford City Stars lost out 6-5 in a thrilling English National League game at home to Bracknell Hornets writes Colin Kirby. Stars went into this match minus eight leading players and a poor first period saw them 3-0 adrift. But they picked up their game and gave Bracknell a real scare before eventually losing. Once again, Stars showed their best form in the second period, but with Hornets Canadian netminder Summerfeldt in hot form, they were held at bay. Michael Bennett hit a fine home opener and Glen West was well positioned in front of goal to add a second. But Abbott hit back and a well-taken Derek Flint strike briefly lifted home hopes before Scott Parsons maintained Hornets' advantage. The third period again saw Oxford playing good creative hockey but luck and the excellent Summerfeldt were against them. Glenn West beat the Bracknell keeper with a low shot but the visitors replied almost immediately through Parsons. Stars battled hard with the younger players again impressing but a rare Trevor Joseph goal was not enough as Bracknell held firm. Coach James Cameron was disappointed but saw some positive signs in the game. He said: "We worked hard and at the end it could have gone either way. "We hit hard and won all the physical clashes, and if only we can get our full line-up out, we will start to rack up the wins."

First published on Tuesday 17 October 2000:

Ice Hockey: Stars take sting out of Hornets.

by This is Oxfordshire

Oxford City Stars brushed aside Bracknell Hornets 8-3 on their home rink in the English National League, writes Colin Kirby. Stars, boosted on Sunday by the return of several players from injury, soaked up some early Bracknell attacks with Matt Cameron in superb form and then tore into their hosts. Paul Donohoe saw his shot just chipped away but Andy Goddard was alert to fire in a fierce shot for the opener.Peter Nyman picked out Scott Gough with a perfect pass for Stars' second, and Chris West struck a good third to establish superiority. Referee Borg lost the plot at the halfway stage, allowing a Bracknell goal that didn't seem to cross the goal line and then bombarding Oxford with niggly penalties. Stars kept their composure, however, and went further ahead with goals from Derek Flint and Glenn West. Oxford 's class started to tell in the final period, and Flint capped a great display with a well-taken goal, Josh Grocutt underlined an impressive showing with another and Glenn West fired home a scorcher to kill the game. Stars gave ice time to back up netminder Chris Roberts and Hornets hit two late consolations.

First published on Tuesday 24 October 2000:

Ice hockey: Ten sent off in Stars war

by This is Oxfordshire

Oxford City Stars lost 5-4 to Telford Royals in a pulsating but bad-tempered English Cup game at Oxpens, writes Colin Kirby. Anyone feeling short-changed by the Tyson/Golotta fight would have got their money's worth. No fewer than ten players were thrown out and nearly 400 minutes of penalties were handed out as some old scores were settled following Stars' 7-1 away defeat in the league. Stars made good early progress, but Telford netminder Daniel Heslop brought off some great saves, including a double block from Darren Elliott and Andy Goddard, which led to a break for an Adam Brittle goal. Peter Nyman's fierce slapshot scorched into the visitors net to equalise. But tempers were already frayed, with players picking their fight partners and worse was to follow. Oxford were caught cold in the second period as Parry netted on the powerplay. Glenn West laid back the puck to Paul Donohoe on the powerplay to tie the scores but former Oxford player James Clarke put Royals ahead again ahead. Andy Cox saw his shot squirm under Heslop but Bates netted a rebound as penalties and fights broke out in abundance. Former Oxford Blades player-coach David Fielder seemed particularly fired up with a series of cheap shots on Oxford players. And with three separate fights going on at one time, referee Meir had his work cut out. The third period saw Oxford struggle to get back in the game as Rowe hit a well-worked goal to stretch the visitors' lead before Stars hit back with a Chris West strike. West suffered a mouth injury as the result of a vicious stick lunge as the game threatened to explode. Stars battled hard to rescue the game and, despite a two-man advantage for five minutes due to penalties, they couldn't pull it off. It was a disappointing weekend for Stars as the under 16s lost 3-2 at Chelmsford and the under 19s 6-5 at Bracknell.

First published on Tuesday 07 November 2000:

Ice Hockey: Rockets snuffed out by Stars

by This is Oxfordshire

Oxford City Stars made hard work of defusing Birmingham Rockets before beating them 7-6 in the English National League, writes Colin Kirby. Stars dominated the opening period, with Danny Turner setting up Darren Elliott to open the scoring. Peter Nyman picked out Turner for Stars' second but Oxford failed to clear their defensive zone and paid the price with Robertson and Parker levelling with late strikes. The second period was a nightmare for Stars as too often their shots were low and easily smothered by former Great Britain goalie David Graham. Rockets pulled ahead through the influential Parker, and despite a Chris West equaliser, Parker and former Star Gareth Roddis built a lead before Paul Donohoe reduced the arrears. The visitors ended the period on top with a further goal but Oxford finally lit the blue touch paper in the third period. Elliott once again looked a class player as he netted on the rebound and West walked in a great levelling goal before Derek Flint secured the victory. Elliott and Turner both shone, but man-of-the-match was Turner, who summed up the team's relief.

First published on Saturday 18 November 2000:

Stars step up hunt after Nyman loan.

by This is Oxfordshire

OXFORD City Stars ice hockey team go on their travels this weekend with a double bill of action. They face an English Cup game at Birmingham Rockets today (5pm) and an English National League fixture at Slough Harrier Hawks tomorrow (5.45). Stars will be without Swede Peter Nyman, who has returned to Basingstoke Bison in the British National League on loan, with a view to a permanent move. Stars are already looking at possible overseas replacements. On the plus side, James Cameron Jnr has now been given the all-clear by his doctor to play again after a shoulder injury which has sidelined him for the opening part of the season. His father, coach James Cameron Snr, is shuffling his lines, moving Steve Cameron and Danny Turner on to defence to release Paul Donohoe to offensive duties. Marlon Williams makes his delayed debut while Daryl Williams returns from injury to bolster the defence. Stars beat Birmingham 7-6 at home recently and are confident of doubling up, but Slough are something of an unknown quantity.

First published on Tuesday 21 November 2000:

Ice Hockey: Stars bounce back after cup exit

by This is Oxfordshire

Oxford City Stars lost their English Cup tie 8-3 at Birmingham Rockets on Saturday but bounced back in style with a 15-2 English National League win at Slough Harrier Hawks the following day, writes COLIN KIRBY. Stars failed to shine in a dimly-lit Birmingham rink, going 4-0 behind in the first period and never recovering despite an improved performance. Glen West replied in the second period and Derek Flint and Chris West found the target to restore some pride, but it was too little, too late. Stars rallied for their trip to Slough and went goal crazy, with Glen West's shot through the home netminder's legs starting the spree. A Derek Flint rebound, Glen West's second and a short-handed Chris West strike made it 4-0. The home coach stormed out on his team during the first break, leaving them in turmoil and Stars were happy to capitalise, grabbing another five goals to Slough's lone score in the second quarter. Chris Roberts took over in Stars goal in the third period and recorded a shut-out as the whole squad got a piece of the action, with Josh Grocutt and Marlon Williams both grabbing their chance. Glen West finished with six goals, Flint three, Darren Elliott two and there were singles for Trevor Joseph, Chris West, Josh Grocutt and Paul Donohoe. Stars Under 19s won 10-2 at Bristol, Michael Bennett leading the way with three goals.

First published on Saturday 25 November 2000:

Ice Hockey: Stars on look-out for new recruits

by This is Oxfordshire

Oxford City Stars have a blank weekend and are putting it to good use by spreading the word about ice hockey, writes COLIN KIRBY. Members of the team will be staging a roadshow outside the Westgate Shopping Centre tomorrow. Oxford run teams at senior, under 19, 16, 14 and 12 levels, and are actively recruiting future players. Newcomers also have a chance to learn about the sport via "Stick and Puck" sessions for beginners on Sundays from 4.30 to 5.00pm. For 2.50, Stars provide basic kit and tuition for youngsters. Skates can be hired from the rink for an extra charge. Last week, some 20 youngsters took advantage of the scheme. The next two sessions are on December 3 and 20, and the 2.50 includes admission to the Stars game afterwards. Oxford have already set up a programme of school visits and have been inundated by requests. Meanwhile, Stars Under 19s have a home match against Invicta tomorrow (5.15).Next Sunday, the Stars senior team host bitter rivals Telford Royals in the third instalment of an encounter that saw ten players ejected from the last home clash.

First published on Saturday 02 December 2000:

Stars prepared for right Royal battle.

by This is Oxfordshire

ICE HOCKEY: Oxford City Stars are on a war footing for the third clash with Telford Royals in the English National League tomorrow (face-off 5.45)..Stars have signed new Swedish forward Anders Agmell, but his registration didn't clear in time to play this week. The 19-year-old six-footer who also rides speedway in the Swedish League, will be eligible for the home game with Peterborough next weekend. But in the meantime, Stars know they face a hard, physical game after ten players were thrown out in the last meeting at Oxford. Coach James Cameron is confident that his side can hurt Telford in the hardest way possible by taking the two league points. "They have shown they want to play rough hockey, but we will be ready for them and won't be pushed around," he said. The league have promised to send a team of tough, no-nonsense officials to ensure fair play, but with former Oxford Blades coach David Fielder returning from a five-game suspension for violent conduct, it's sure to be a tough encounter. Meanwhile, last weekend, Stars Under 16s won 6-2 at Bristol and the Under 12s won 7-2 at Chelmsford. The Under 19s beat Invicta 8-2 at home.

First published on Tuesday 05 December 2000:

Ice Hockey: Stars pay price for slow start.

by Colin Kirby

Oxford City Stars were made to regret another slow start as they went down 10-7 at home to Telford Royals in the English National League. Telford this time let their hockey do the talking after a stormy first encounter between the two sides, and they took the lead when Giles's shot squirmed past Matt Cameron. Chris West levelled soon after with a well-taken goal, but Stars failed to put enough pressure on Telford's 13-year-old netminder and, with Derek Flint unavailable, looked short on fire power. Royals took their chances and pulled ahead via Rowe and Stanton, and increased the lead in the second period through Watt before Stars staged a revival. Darren Elliott reduced the arrears, but Oxford let the young Telford netminder roam out of his goal crease and paid the price as he set up a goal for Rowe. This stung Stars into action and goals from brothers Chris and Glenn West, and Andy Cox put them back in the match. However, the third period saw the game slip away. Oxford's fragile defence was breached with markers from Parry and Clarke, and there was no way back despite a spirited late rally with two goals from James Cameron. Brittle hit two final goals for Royals, the second into an empty net as Stars pulled their netminder in a last gamble.

First published on Saturday 09 December 2000:

Stars debut for Swede

by This is Oxfordshire

OXFORD City Stars go in search of English National League points away to Birmingham Rockets today (5pm) and at home to Peterborough Titans tomorrow (5.45).Stars welcome back Derek Flint, whose wife Lisa gave birth to their first son last Sunday afternoon, and give a debut to new Swedish forward Anders Agmell. Stars' last trip to Birmingham ended in a 8-3 English Cup reverse when they failed to acclimatise to the dark, low-roofed City Centre rink in time to resist a Stuart Parker-inspired second city side. However, their last game against Peterborough ended in a comfortable 14-2 away win, and they will be looking to make it a memorable double. Stars are going into a crucial phase of the season with the end-of-season play-offs their target, and they still have a chance in their English Cup group. Coach James Cameron, though, is pleased with the progress of his young local-based squad. He said: "We are learning all the time and the main thing is the players all believe in what we are doing and are committed to the future of ice hockey in Oxford. "It's important that we have a strong senior team for the talented youngsters of the junior section to aspire to."

First published on Tuesday 12 December 2000:

Ice Hockey: Stars revive play-off bid

by This is Oxfordshire

Oxford City Stars moved into contention for the end-of-season play-offs with two great English National League wins over the weekend, writes Colin Kirby. At Birmingham Rockets on Saturday, Stars showed great character to come from behind, new Swedish signing Anders Agmell showing aggression and spirit. Matt Roberts gave Oxford an early lead but Rockets fired back with three quick goals. Stars took a tight second period 3-2 thanks to goals from Chris West, Darren Elliott and Derek Flint, while a hard-fought third period saw Stars turned on the style with markers from Flint, Agmell, Glenn West and James Cameron. Sunday's visitors, Peterborough Islanders, proved no match for Stars who dominated early play and went ahead through an Andy Cox powerplay goal. West (2) and Elliott soon made it 4-0 and Oxford took control of the game as James Cameron and Chris West increased the lead before Coleman broke Matt Cameron's shut-out. Elliott's second kept Stars in command. Oxford gave all their squad ice time in the third period. Chris Roberts kept a half-game clean sheet in goal while James Cameron jnr and Elliott completed the scoring.

First published on Saturday 16 December 2000:

Stars gear up for big Freeze clash

by This is Oxfordshire

OXFORD City Stars undertake their longest English National League trip of the season tomorrow for a 6.30pm face-off in North Wales against Flintshire Freeze. Boosted by two good wins last weekend, Stars have made careful plans to contain the Deeside-based side. Coach James Cameron watched the Freeze earlier in the season "Everything they do stems from their Canadian player coach Mark Stokes," he said. "We showed last week that if we play tight defensive hockey and suppress their playmaker, as we did with Stu Parker for Birmingham, we will frustrate the opposition and come out on top. "Glen and Chris West miss the game through suspension, but Stephen Cameron returns after having his broken nose reset following an injury a few weeks ago. Coach Cameron may use new Swede Anders Agmell on defence this week. "Anders is a big strong player who looks up and reads the game well," he said. "I think he could do a good job for us in that position. "Last weekend, the young players showed their worth. I have no hesitation in playing Luke Plasted, who is 14, and Matt Roberts, who is 15."Meanwhile, netminder Matt Cameron will be in action for England Under 18s on the Isle of Wight this afternoon.

First published on Tuesday 19 December 2000:

Ice Hockey: Stars are on a roll

by This is Oxfordshire

Oxford City Stars continued their winning run with a 10-4 win at Flintshire Freeze in the English National League. In a strong, all-round team performance, Stars controlled the game from the start. Derek Flint led the way with four goals and four assists, ably supported by Darren Elliot, James Cameron and Paul Donohoe who were also on target.

First published on Wednesday 17 January 2001:

Ice-hockey: In-form City Stars head for play-offs

by Mail Sports desk

It was just another day at the office as Oxford City Stars beat Slough Harrier Hawks 8-2 to maintain their drive towards the English League Division 1 play-offs. This was Stars' sixth win in the last seven league matches but things did not start too well as Slough took a surprise lead in the seventh minute through Steven Martin. However, Oxford replied 45 seconds later when an error by the Slough netminder let in Darren Elliott to equalise. Stars then began to get the upper hand and eventually took the lead when Derek Flint scored with help from Glen West and James Cameron. There was no further scoring in the first period, but following the break the Oxford team started to dominate. The second period saw them score five unanswered goals, all by different players. The first came with a Glen West marker assisted by Derek Flint. Then under 19 defenseman Andy Cox scored after a good build up involving Flint and Glen West. Man-of-the-match Chris West scored a solo effort followed by Elliott and Danny Turner, who finished a move involving Elliott and Chris West. A shoulder injury early on for Darryl Williams meant that there was plenty of ice time for Stars' young defensemen Andy Cox and Scott Stroud and they acquitted themselves well. As the game went on, Stars were using all of their youngsters on a regular basis and Josh Grocutt had some good shifts, with Ben White and Marlon Williams also doing well. Stars have some good young netminders as was shown when Matt Cameron, the GB Under-18 netminder, was replaced by Adam Dobson. Early in the third period, Dobson was beaten by a Troy Harrigan goal for Slough, but Flint notched another for Oxford and that rounded off the scoring, if not the action. After 52 minutes Slough were awarded a penalty shot for a trip from behind by the evergreen Trevor Joseph but Dobson saved the attempt by Lee Harrigan the first penalty shot the minder had faced in senior hockey. The last few minutes of the game saw players letting off steam. First, Steven Cameron, of Oxford, exchanged blows with Lee Harrigan and then both Stars' Danny Turner and Slough's Troy Harrigan were ejected after a full and frank expression of views (and punches). This means Turner will be suspended for Stars' next match against Flintshire (North Wales) on Sunday February 4. This match may prove decisive as both teams could be chasing just one play-off place. But Stars will be confident , having already beaten the Welshmen in the away fixture. Scorers: D Flint 2+3, Gn West 1+3, D Elliott 2+1, C West 1+1, Andy Cox 1+1, J Cameron 0+2, D Turner 1+0. Other results: Oxford City Stars Under 14s 0, Invicta 14; Chelmsford Under19s 6, Oxford City Stars 2; Streatham Under 16s 2, Oxford City Stars 14 (A Parris 6, G Robinson 2, O Medcalf 2, L Plasted, B Kossick, M Poulter, M Roberts).

First published on Wednesday 17 January 2001:

Ice Hockey: Town v Gown in charity fundraiser

by Mail Sports desk

Oxford City Stars will play Oxford University in their traditional Town versus Gown fixture on Sunday February 18 but this time there will be some additional features. The event will be a charity fundraiser for Helen House and Douglas House Hospices. The match will be run jointly in conjunction with the University Ice Hockey Club and a women's Town v Gown match will precede the men's game. All gate money and all proceeds form programme sales, raffles and the like will be donated to the hospices. Councillors plus staff and children from the hospices are expected to attend. There may also be some wheelchair activities on the ice. The ice rink are donating the ice time for the event, so there will be no public session that evening. The event is being co-ordinated by Brian Sherratt, one of the rink managers.

First published on Saturday 27 January 2001:

Ice Hockey: Stars know what's required

by This is Oxfordshire

Oxford City Stars, without a game this weekend, are now guaranteed to finish in the top four of the English National League South if they beat Flintshire a week tomorrow. In fact, victory would almost certainly mean them finishing in second place behind the unbeaten Basingstoke Buffalo. The league scoring statistics make good reading with Derek Flint currently top, Glen West fifth, Paul Donohoe ninth and Darren Elliott tenth. Play-off hockey could involve a fair amount of travelling as, if the team makes it through to take on the English National League North representatives, the leading teams from there are currently Billingham, Altrincham, Whitley Bay and Blackburn. Meanwhile, Stars have been hit by international call-ups for both of their young net-minders. The performances of Matt Cameron and Adam Dobson mean they will be unavailable for periods in the first part of February. Joe Oliver and Sam Keyte have recently returned from a trip to France with the South West Conference Under 13s, and Sam Jennings, Oliver Medcalf and Luke Plasted are shortly off with the South West Conference Under 15s.

First published on Saturday 03 February 2001:

Crunch day for new-look Stars

by This is Oxfordshire

TOMORROW sees the most important match of the season so far for newly-strengthened Oxford City Stars. They meet Flintshire at Oxford Ice Rink in a match that will decide whether they extend their season into the English National League play-offs.Stars have been busy in the transfer market over the days leading up to the season's transfer deadline of January 31.First to be signed was Bracknell's solid defenceman Richard Hardy, and then there was a rush on the last evening to sign Canadian Bill Morrow from Chelmsford Chieftains. It is hoped that Morrow's paperwork has gone through on time for both players to make their first Stars appearance tomorrow. The play-off position has become clearer as last weekend Telford beat Basingstoke, and Bracknell beat Birmingham, which means that Telford and Basingstoke have definitely qualified. If Stars beat Flintshire they will definitely be in the top four, with Bracknell the team likely to miss out as Flintshire have games in hand. A loss puts Oxford's fate in the hands of others. Oxford will be missing netminder Matt Cameron he flies out to France for a GB training camp but Chris Roberts has returned to training. Other absentees are Danny Turner (one-match suspension) and, probably, Darryl Williams (shoulder injury). Oxford City Stars under 12s lost 5-2 in their top-of-the-table clash with unbeaten Cardiff Mini Devils. They now need to win their remaining games to reach the play-offs, and they start with a trip to Lee Valley today. The under 14s travel to Invicta (Gillingham) and the under 19s have an important home fixture against Isle of Wight (4.45 face off).

First published on Wednesday 14 February 2001:

Ice hockey: Stars to protest over referee.

by Mail Sports desk

Oxford City Stars are to put in a protest about an official after their 7-2 cup defeat with a weakened side away to Telford Royals on Sunday. Following City's complaints about local official Blaine Evans after the last game at Telford, he was again allocated to referee this contest. After some ill feeling between certain players in earlier matches, and with the chance of meeting the Royals in the play-offs, City used several fringe players. After a scoreless first period, Telford opened up a 5-0 lead in the second period but the Stars tied the third period 2-2 with goals from 19 year-old regular Andy Cox and Derek Flint. Oxford scorers: D Flint 1+1, A Cox 1+0, J Grocutt 0+1, C West 0+1.Matt Cameron, from Oxford City, played for England under 18-20s at Invicta (Gillingham) on Saturday in a run-out for the likely squad for the forthcoming world junior championships. In their final league match before next week's Town v Gown fixture, Oxford University women's team beat Streatham Storm 4-0.University scorers: C May 1+1, C Murray 1+1, L Halone 1+0, J Boro 1+0, A Rothnie 0+1, B Hirsh 0+1, A Cummins 0+1, A Carlisle 0+1.Other results: Oxford City Zodiacs 5 (B Hughes 3, B Fermor, K Featonby), Basingstoke 4; Oxford City Under 14s 1, Invicta 2; Oxford City Under 12s 18 (R Penhale 5, D Medcalf 4, S Breisner 4, J Oliver 2, J Edwards , R Bowen , M Whillock), Bristol 2.

First published on Saturday 17 February 2001:

Stars in charity clash.

by This is Oxfordshire

OXFORD City Stars take on Oxford University in the annual Town v Gown ice hockey contest tonight at Oxford Ice Rink. This year's event has been expanded and all proceeds will be donated to Helen House and Douglas House Hospices. The evening starts with the women's match between Oxford City Zodiacs and Oxford University, which should be close as the teams have similar records this season. A demonstration match involving Oxford City under 12 and under 14 players is being staged before the men's match, which starts at 7.15pm. Oxford University have only played late night friendlies so far this season, but are understood to have a strong team compared to previous years. Stars will feature all the normal first-team players but may extend their bench and give further chances to their under 19 and 16 players. Already this season, nine under 19s and three under 16s have taken part in English League matches. Trevor Joseph and Darren Elliott return from suspension following the incidents in the Flintshire game, and James Cameron should be fit again. Glen West, Danny Turner and Michael Bennett should return after being rested for last week's cup game at Telford. The University ice 14 Canadians, two Americans, two Englishmen, one Australian and one Swede. Entry is a minimum donation of 3 for adults and 1.50 for children. SCHEDULE (timings may vary slightly): 4.30 Women's Town v Gown: Oxford University v Oxford City Zodiacs, 6.00 Presentation of trophy, 6.05 Under 12 and under 14 demonstration scrimmage, 6.35 Men's warm-up, 7.10 Introduction of players for men's game, 7.15 Men's Town v Gown: Oxford City Stars v Oxford University, 9.15 Presentation of trophy. There is expected to be at least one figure skating demonstration in the breaks between periods for the men's game. BACK IN ACTION: Darren Elliott returns for Stars tomorrow in the Town v Gown match

First published on Saturday 24 February 2001:

Ice Hockey

by This is Oxfordshire

Sweet charity as Stars beat Gown THE first charity Town versus Gown ice hockey match raised around 1,200 for Helen House Hospice.Well over 500 people attended the evening, with facilities provided free by Oxford Ice Rink.The women's teams opened the procedings, with the university putting on a fine performance to beat Oxford City Zodiacs 4-1.The university's goals were scored by Andrea Cummins, Cathrine Murray and Judith Waller (2), with Becky Hughes on the mark for Zodiacs.Oxford City Stars beat Oxford University 7-4 in the men's encounter.The Stars used some of their less experienced players, with 16-year-old Adam Dobson in goal and several under 16 and under 19 players being given a game. The university led 3-2 after the first period, with goals from Dan Colgate, John Drover and Jon Finer, Stars netting through Paul Donohoe and Josh Grocutt.Stars equalised through a first senior goal by under 19 player Neil Plasted, before the university regained their lead through Alex Drew.The third period was more one-sided as Oxford City Stars netted through Chris West and under 19 player Ben White.Bill Morra extended their lead, and the scoring was rounded off with another unassisted effort from White.OXFORD City Stars are looking forward to the English National League, which will include the top four teams in the south meeting each other home and away in a round robin tournament starting on March 10.The teams joining Stars are Basingstoke Buffalo, Telford Royals and either Bracknell or Flintshire.The Northern group winners playing the Southern runners-up, with the winners of the Southern group facing the Northern runners-up home and away in the semi-finals.

First published on Tuesday 13 March 2001:

Ice hockey: Super Stars off to flying start.

by Mail sportsdesk

Oxford City Stars got their English National League play-off campaign off to a great start with a 9-6 win away to Telford Royals in a game marred by an injury to Chris West. Following unsavoury incidents in previous games with Telford, a different referee was allocated to officiate this time - and it proved just as well. Telford went ahead with a goal from former Stars player James Clarke, but Oxford levelled 30 seconds later through Andy Cox after good work from Michael Bennett and West. The second period saw Oxford go into the lead with goals from Richard Hardy, Cox again, and Derek Flint before Telford scored their second goal in the 30th minute. Stars restored their three-goal cushion again within 30 seconds through Bill Morra, and with James Cameron junior, Darren Elliott and Flint also on target, they went into the second break leading 8-4. The first of these goals led to a five-minute delay after West was stretchered off following an attack by Telford's Mike Roden, who was then ejected from the game. The third period was calmer as Oxford extended their lead to five goals with another Cameron goal, before Telford pulled back two goals to make for an uneasy last four minutes. A tally of five powerplay goals by Oxford to one by Telford was a reflection of the fact that Oxford suffered 28 minutes of team penalties compared to Telford's 69. Telford also suffered two ten-minute misconducts and one game misconduct. Scorers: Cameron 2+3, Hardy 1+3, Morra 1+2, Elliott 1+2, West 0+3, Cox, 2+0, Flint 2+0, West 0+1, Bennett 0+1.

First published on Tuesday 13 March 2001:

Ice hockey: Telford in hot water

by Mail sportsdesk

Telford could be in hot water after the incident which led to Stars' Chris West having to go to hospital after being knocked out for three minutes. An article in the matchday programme suggested that the West brothers might come in for some rough treatment, and the referee has since advised Oxford to send a copy of it to the disciplinary secretary of the league and the English Ice Hockey Association secretary. Oxford still have to play a home match against Telford in the play-offs.

First published on Tuesday 20 March 2001:

Ice hockey: Super Stars stay on course for semis

by Mail sports desk

Oxford City Stars returned to the top of the English National Hockey League south play-offs with a 9-4 win over league winners Basingstoke on Sunday. Stars started poorly by giving Basingstoke two soft goals in the first five minutes before waking up. A sudden rush of penalties after these two setbacks saw the home side fighting to stay in the match as they played out four minutes short-handed, half of that time with a two-man disadvantage. But after surviving the onslaught, Oxford pulled back in the 12th minute with a fine goal from Derek Flint, after good work from Glen West, and the period ended with Basingstoke leading 2-1. Early in the second period, Basingstoke extended their lead to 3-1 but that was to conclude their scoring for the next half hour as Oxford played some fine hockey and were dominant for long spells. Three of their goals were scored short-handed, the first of these coming when Glen West was set up by Flint in the 24th minute. They drew level through a goal by Chris West after a move involving Andy Cox and Bill Morra, and then Stars went ahead for the first time when Morra set up Darren Elliott for the first of his three goals. In the third period it wasn't long before James Cameron jnr scored Oxford's fifth goal from a pass by Cox, and a few minutes later, Elliott netted the sixth, with assistance from Glen West. Elliott finished Oxford's scoring with his third goal, again set up by Morra, in the 56th minute before Basingstoke scored a late consolation in the last two minutes. Matt Cameron picked up the Oxford player of the match award after saving 43 of 47 on target shots by the Buffalo. Oxford travel to Basingstoke on Wednesday where another win almost certainly seal their place in the national semi-finals. Scorers: Darren Elliott 3+0, Bill Morra 0+3, Chris West 1+1, Glen West 1+1, Derek Flint 1+1, Andy Cox 0+2, James Cameron jnr 1+0. *Telford's David Fielder has had his coaching licence suspended by the English Ice Hockey Association following incidents at last week's game against the Stars. Fielder is appealing against the decision.

First published on Sunday 25 March 2001:Ice hockey:

Stars chief livid at lack of discipline

by Mail sportsdesk

Oxford City Stars came back to earth with a bump in the English League play-offs when they lost 12-4 away to Basingstoke. The winning margin flattered Basingstoke Buffalo who scored six goals in the last 11 minutes as the strain of playing short-handed for most of the last half an hour finally told on Oxford. The teams went into the break tied at 1-1 as Basingstoke scored early through Drew Campbell after he was allowed in by an Oxford error, but James Cameron equalised late on after good work from Derek Flint and Glen West. Buffalo extended their lead to 4-2 by the halfway mark with two more goals from Campbell and one for youngster Neil Leary against a solitary reply from Andy Cox who was set up by Cameron and Flint. But frustration was starting to set in and the penalties began to flow. Basingstoke scored a couple of powerplay goals through Campbell and Jordan, and Oxford replied with a goal from Chris West. By the end of this period each team had suffered ten minutes of penalties. The third period started with another goal for Cameron but then the referee called a six-minute penalty on Cox, rapidly followed by a minor for Chris West. And Oxford were to find themselves playing two men short for most of the next six minutes as Paul Donohoe was ejected for taking matters into his own hands and fighting with Buffalo's Neil Leary. Basingstoke scored a powerplay goal through Jordan before Oxford's Richard Hardy was ejected for roughing, and the floodgates opened with a further four powerplay goals in three minutes. Oxford's indiscipline had cost them dear and Basingstoke's Ian Parsons added another goal. Oxford coach James Cameron Snr was livid at his team's indiscipline. "Four or five players have let their team down by being more interested in themselves and their egos than the team ethic and I am disgusted with them," he said. Tomorrow, Oxford take on Flintshire, and as it is Mother's Day, any mothers attending the game with their children (of any age) will be allowed free admission. **Scorers: J Cameron 2+1, A Cox 1+1, D Flint 0+2, C West 1+0, D Elliott 0+1, S Cameron 0+1, G West 0+1, B Morra 0+1.

First published on Tuesday 27 March 2001:

Ice hockey: Beaten Stars still on play-off course.

Oxford City Stars, depleted by late withdrawals, never hit any sort of rhythm in a scrappy match against a Flintshire team they had beaten twice earlier this season as they went down 5-3 in the English league play-offs on Sunday. Stars remain well placed to finish in the top two and qualify for the semi-finals but will certainly need to improve on this performance. Without Derek Flint, Trevor Joseph, Michael Bennett, Ben Lay, Danny Turner, Richard Hardy and Daryl Williams, Stars did not get going in a blank first period. Matt Cameron in the Oxford goal was called upon to make a few good saves but in the second period, Stars went ahead through Andy Cox and Bill Morra made it 2-0. The turning point of the game came in the 27th minute when Flintshire scored two goals in 12 seconds through Arron Davis and Mark Lovell. The tide had turned and late in the period Davis scored again to give the Freeze a 3-2 lead. Oxford made some adjustments for the third period, which saw Morra move up front with Steven Cameron dropping back to defence, but Flintshire extended their lead in the second minute with a powerplay goal from veteran Mark Stokes. Oxford replied with Morra's second goal, but late in the period, Flintshire sealed their first win of the play-offs with a third goal from Davis. The two netminders won the player-of-the-match awards for their respective teams. Stars scorers: Bill Morra 2+1, Andy Cox 1+1, Glen West 0+1. *David Fielder, the Telford coach who had his coaching licence suspended following an incident in Oxford's match at Telford two weeks ago, was in further trouble in their match at Flintshire last weekend, this time as a player. He was given a gross misconduct and requested a police escort from the rink. A five-match playing suspension has been handed out by the league, so should not be available for Telford's visit to Oxford in three weeks' time.

First published on Tuesday 03 April 2001:

Ice hockey: It's wide open

by Mail sportsdesk

While Oxford City Stars had a blank weekend, Flintshire Freeze beat Telford Royals to leave the English National League Southern play-offs wide open. If Oxford lose at Flintshire next Sunday, Basingstoke and Flintshire will qualify for the semi-finals. If Oxford win at Flintshire and Telford lose at Basingstoke, Basingstoke and Oxford will qualify. If Oxford and Telford both win, it will come down to an Easter Sunday showdown at Oxpens Road Rink where Oxford will need to avoid losing by more than three goals to qualify. A draw at Flintshire would leave Oxford needing to beat Telford in the last game.

First published on Monday 09 April 2001:

Ice hockey: Full-strength Stars face their acid test

by Mail sports desk

Oxford City Stars expect to take a full-strength team to their crunch match at Flintshire tomorrow when the winners will almost certainly progress to the English National League play-off semi-finals and the losers will be out of contention. The last match between the teams saw an under-strength Oxford lose at home two weeks ago, but the previous two resulted in Oxford victories, in Flintshire last December and at Oxpens Road Rink in February. The main threat from Flintshire is likely to be posed by their veteran player coach Mark Stokes, who was the top points-scorer in the English National League South. Oxford expect Derek Flint, who finished as second in the scoring list, to return to action after missing the last game through illness. Tomorrow should also see the return to the Stars' line-up of physical defenceman Richard Hardy after serving a one-match suspension, together with some of the other players unavailable for the last game. The Stars should carry too much scoring power for the Freeze this time as they revert to a more attacking shape with two main forward lines of Glen West, Bill Morra and James Cameron on the first line and Darren Elliott, Derek Flint and Paul Donohoe on the second line. The defensive pairings are likely to involve Richard Hardy, Andy Cox, Josh Grocutt and Steve Cameron, and there will be another checking line utilising the talents of youngsters Matt Roberts and Luke Plasted, together with Chris West. There are doubts about the fitness of Trevor Joseph, and of the availability of Michael Bennett and Danny Turner but a strong squad should travel. Matt Cameron will be in the nets as normal. If Stars make it through - which should be known after the weekend's matches - they are likely to meet Whitley Bay, probable Northern Section winners, in a two-legged semi-final later in April. Oxford City Stars (at Flintshire): from M Cameron (NM), C Roberts (NM), Grocutt, Plasted, Elliott, Cox, Cameron, C West, Joseph, Hardy, G West, J Cameron jnr, Donohoe, M Roberts, Morra, Flint, Turner, Williams, Bennett, Lay.

First published on Tuesday 10 April 2001:

Ice hockey: Stars book place in play-off semis

by Mail sports desk

Oxford City Stars qualified for the semi-finals of the English National Hockey League play-offs with an 8-4 win over Flintshire Freeze at the Deeside Ice Arena. The match was sweet revenge after Flintshire's win against an under-strength team at Oxford two weeks ago. Stars had a perfect start when Darren Elliott scored the first goal after just 12 seconds, Flintshire replying in the fourth minute. Oxford's advantage was restored a couple of minutes later when Chris West scored an unassisted short-handed goal, and Richard Hardy made it 3-1. When Derek Flint scored No 4, Stars were looking comfortable, but Flintshire replied again before the first break. Oxford notched the only goal of the second period in the 33rd minute when Flint scored his second after good play from Elliott. Flintshire competed hard with a lot of heavy checking and Steve Cameron had to leave the game after the first period suffering from dizziness after taking a big hit, leaving Oxford short on defence. However, they rotated their more experienced forwards into the defence for the rest of the game, and it gave the chance for youngster Matt Roberts to get plenty of ice time. The decision to move Paul Donohoe back to his old wing position paid off with a goal in the third period, before Flintshire pulled back to 6-3 with a Mark Stokes goal. Donohoe netted twice more as Stars increased their lead to 8-3, and when Flintshire's Dave Costello was ejected after a high-sticking incident in the 54th minute, the game fizzled out, although Stokes scored again for Freeze a couple of minutes from the end of the game. Oxford play Telford Royals at Oxpens Road Rink on Easter Sunday in the last fixture of the group where, bearing in mind the past clashes between these two teams, their main concern will be to avoid injuries and suspensions. Their semi-final match (two legs) will be against either Whitley Bay or Billingham.

First published on Saturday 14 April 2001:

Stars face new test against Billingham

OXFORD City Stars play Billingham Eagles in the first leg of the semi-finals of the English National Ice Hockey League play-offs tomorrow (5.45) in a re-arranged game. The original fixture against Telford was cancelled late on Thursday night as it did not affect qualification and would have delayed the start of the semi-finals. Billingham were runners-up to Whitley Bay in the play-offs last year, but this season have won the Northern Section play-off qualifiers. The team have been running since 1971 (they were formerly known as Cleveland Bombers) and when Oxford started up in 1984, they recruited Tom Smith and Paul Simpson from the Cleveland club. The Eagles' best-known player is Andre Malo, a former GB international, who played for Sheffield Steelers in the Seconda Superleague last season and is now their player-coach. Their top scorer for the last four seasons has been local player Paul (Spike) Windridge, who is a fine playmaker. Oxford expect to ice a near full-strength team. While several players took facial injuries from high sticks last weekend at Flintshire, Josh Grocutt and Matt Cameron in particular, they all expect to play. Steve Cameron has recovered from the dizzy spells that made him sit out part of the last game, and Glen West is likely to return after his late withdrawal from the trip to Flintshire. Oxford may decide to lengthen their bench with some more under 19 players. Trevor Joseph is now likely to sit out the rest of the season, while Bill Morra returns to Canada on May 5, but will be available for the second leg of the semi-final at Billingham on Sunday, April 29. Stars: from M Cameron, Roberts, Grocutt, Elliott, Cox, S Cameron, C West, Hardy, G West, Turner, J Cameron, Donohoe, Williams, Bennett, Stroud, Roberts, Lay, Morra, Flint. STARS under 19s lost their first play-off game at Peterborough last Saturday and try to recover from that with a trip to Romford today. Play-off fixtures - today: Romford v Oxford City Stars. Sunday April 22: Stars v Chelmsford. Sunday April 29: Chelmsford v Stars. Saturday May 5: Stars v Peterborough. Sunday May 6: Stars v Romford.

First published on Wednesday 18 April 2001:

Ice hockey: Stars' bid suffers a setback

by Mail sports desk

Oxford City Stars' hopes of reaching the English National League play-off final suffered a setback with Sunday's 4-1 defeat at home to Billingham Eagles. This was the second disappointing home performance in a row from Oxford in the semi-finals. They started badly by letting in two short-handed goals in the first four minutes. The rest of the first period was a scrappy affair with both sides missing several chances. Oxford were only icing two regular defensemen and the team often seemed disorganised and disjointed, while in attack they were not helped by the absence of first line forward James Cameron. The second period started quietly but in the 25th minute, Billingham extended their lead with a goal from their top scorer Paul Windridge after sloppy defensive work from Oxford. Stars pulled back a goal at the halfway mark through Bill Morra, but Billingham restored the visitors' lead five minutes later when Andre Malo strolled through the Oxford defence to score unassisted. The end of the second period and much of the third contained much of Billingham's best play but they were unable to score again and Oxford also missed a few chances to reduce the deficit. The first two periods had been fairly calm with each team only taking six minutes in penalties, but some ill-feeling started when Billingham's Andy Fletcher caught Derek Flint with a high stick, provoking a slash in response. The referee settled for minor penalties for this incident but a minute later, Oxford's Richard Hardy took a penalty for checking from behind. While the Oxford player was serving his time, Eagles' Andy Thornton was assessed a similar penalty, then Stars' Chris West was assessed 16 minutes in penalties after retaliating to another high-sticking offence by Fletcher. At this point, Hardy made some comments from the penalty box to the referee about his performance and he was ejected from the game. Defensemen Andy Cox was later thrown out of the game for a knee-high check on Malo, who could miss the second leg at Billingham on Sunday April 29 after picking up more penalties. * Oxford's Under 19s lost a tight game 5-3 at Romford on Saturday 5-3 after taking only eight players to the game due to unavailability and injury.

First published on Monday 30 April 2001:

Ice hockey: Stars facing uphill task at Billingham.

by Mail sports desk

Oxford City Stars have it all to do when they travel to Billingham tomorrow for the second leg of the Enlgish League semi-final play-off. Stars went down 4-1 in the home leg, but they will be encouraged by the absence through suspension of Billingham's key player, Andre Malo, the former Great Britain international. More good news for Stars comes in the form of the return of leading forward James Cameron, who, along with a couple of other players, was missing from the first leg. Also, it is difficult to believe that Stars can perform quite as badly this time around as they did at Oxpens Road. On the downside, Bill Morra has had to return to Canada following the death of his sister. Morra had already delayed his return home on two occasions because of Oxford's play-off run, and it is sad that he has had to leave in such circumstances. Stars will also be missing Andy Cox and Chris West, who are suspended because of the disciplinary points they picked up in the first leg. Daryl Williams and Trevor Joseph will again be missing from the Stars squad. Stars will find it difficult to recover from the three-goal deficit, but all things are possible. Oxford have already won a number of crucial away games this season - not least the win at Flintshire, after a home defeat, that got them to this stage. Some of the Oxford team have made rather unusual travel arrangements for the match, deciding to travel up today to stay with friends from the Billingham team. If they do get through, Stars will meet either Whitley Bay or Basingstoke in the final - they play the second leg of their semi-final at Basingstoke on Sunday, May 6. Whitley won the first leg 4-1. Oxford City Stars: from M Cameron, C Roberts, J Grocutt, D Elliott, S Cameron, R Hardy, G West, J Cameron, P Donohoe, M Williams, M Bennett, S Stroud, M Roberts, B Lay, D Flint, N Plasted, L Plasted, R Williams.

First published on Tuesday 01 May 2001:

Ice hockey: Sad Stars have no answer to Eagles

by Mail sports desk

Oxford City Stars bowed out of the English National League play-offs on Sunday when they went down 12-2 away to Billingham Eagles in the second leg of the semi-finals. It meant Stars were well beaten overall, 16-3 on aggregate. Bill Morra flew back into the country on Saturday after attending his sister's funeral in Canada the day before, but that was countered by players withdrawing from the Oxford squad. No under 19 players were available because of their own play-off match at Chelmsford, and Chris West and Andy Coz were suspended. Frantic phone calls secured the services of James Roberts, who hadn't played for the Stars since November, his brother Matt from the under 16s, and Marlon Williams. When Richard Hardy and Glen West failed to show on Sunday morning, it left just ten players, plus the two netminders, to make the journey to Middlesbrough. For the first time, Stars iced two sets of three brothers - probably a record in British ice hockey, and the team contained no player who had started the season as a defenceman. The first period went reasonably well, with Oxford competitive throughout, and although Billingham took the lead after one minute, Stars levelled after 13 when Derek Flint scored unassisted. Billingham scored again five minutes later to end the period with a 2-1 lead. Stars stayed in the game until midway through the second period when Eagles added three more goals. Four more Billingham goals in five minutes at the start of the third period ended the match as a contest. They added another before of the end of session, by which time Chris Roberts had replaced Matt Cameron in the Stars goal. Tiredness and frustration began to affect Oxford who lost Darren Elliott for the remainder of the game after some retaliation. Stars got one goal back after 54 minutes through James Cameron after a move involving Flint, but Billingham replied with two more goals. It was a disappointing finish to the season for Oxford, and the lack of commitment by a few players means some are unlikely to be retained for next year. On the plus side, this has been t