Wimbledon hockey club coach Ben Marsden insists his side are in a good place despite back-to-back defeats in the MHL Premier Division.

Last weekend’s 3-1 defeat at home to defending champions Beeston, featuring a Phil Ball goal, leaves the Dons eighth in the table.

Marsden said: “We’ve got six new players in the group, which may play a part in the start we’ve had.

“It was always going to be tough against Beeston, but we have been creating chances, which is great.”

He added: “It’s a long season, and the spirit in the camp is high.”

Wimbledon go to Southgate this weekend, with Marsden expecting the return to action of Johnny Kinder, who has been playing his hockey in Australia.