STOURPORT Hockey Men produced their best performance of the season in the Midlands Division One as they defeated South Notts 5-2 on Saturday.

South Notts proved to be a far stronger team than at the same time last season, and showed some exciting approach play.

They dominated periods of the first half and were well worth their 2-1 lead after 20 minutes.

Stourport had taken an early lead after Andrew Cavendish converted a short corner, but two consecutive quick goals gave advantage to the Nottinghamshire team.

However, what has been pleasing this season for the Stourport coaching staff has been the way the team has responded to being on the verge of a potential loss.

Two goals before half-time, from a Chris Hill solo effort and a David Knott strike, gave advantage back to Stourport at half-time.

The second half was a combination of Kali Takher’s half time team talk and a level of fitness and belief the Stourport side has built up from the training regime that began in June.

Stourport dominated most of the second half and added two further goals.

Knott completed his brace and then Phil Baldwin, who had flown in from Spain especially to play in this game, added another from a well-worked short corner.

Stourport are now second in the league with only a point separating them and early pacesetters Worcester.

This weekend they travel away to visit newly promoted Old Sils, with a 2pm push-back.

The seconds lost 9-0 to Barford Tigers, while the fourths were edged out 2-1 by Edgbaston sixths.

l Meanwhile, a mixed fifths and sixths women's team lost 2-0 to Bromsgrove's thirds and fourths.

Stourport weathered heavy pressure in a goalless first half.

The second half saw a more balanced match, with both sides continuing to push for a goal. Unfortunately, it was Stourport’s county neighbours who struck twice.