STOURPORT Men played their best hockey of the season to won 4-2 against long-standing rivals Birmingham-based Barford Tigers in the Midlands Premier.

Coach Kali Takher made several changes to try and boost confidence and refresh a system that has been tested since promotion.

Calum Stanley's recall proved to be an outstanding decision as he produced a great display of defending and attacking hockey, while Phil Baldwin’s move up front was key to more attacking and improved the balance of outcome in the opposition 25.

Takher’s presence on the pitch was also another major key point to improving the composition of the side and quality in the possession of the ball, while sweeper Andy Cavendish and Dan Hurley in central midfield turned in match-winning displays.

It was a Cavendish short corner which opened the scoring before Matt Darbyshire's deflected goal.

Barford scored twice to make it 2-2 but despite the dismissal of goalkeeper Alex Cook for five minutes, Stourport rallied.

Cavendish scored from the spot after Tigers’ goalkeeper was suspended for a foul on Phil Baldwin.

George Southall scored Stourport’s fourth and finished what turned out to be a fantastic all-round attacking and defensive display.

This weekend Stourport welcome West Bridgford to the Kingsway for a 2pm start.