Cheltenham host West Hockey Premier Division leaders Bristol Firebrands on Saturday in what feels like a must-win game for the home side.

Cheltenham are second in the 12-team table but they trail the leaders by seven points having played a game more.

Bristol Firebrands have won six out of six, scoring 23 goals along the way, and although it is still early in the season they have certainly put down a significant marker.

“It’s definitely a game in which we’re hopeful of getting a result,” said Cheltenham coach Mike Cupper.

“Every fixture is important but obviously Bristol Firebrands have made an amazing start. They are a serious outfit but hopefully we can build on our recent momentum.”

Cheltenham are unbeaten in four games after losing two of their first three.

They won 2-1 at home to Truro at the weekend and Cupper continued: “We want to keep improving as a squad but we know it won’t be easy on Saturday.

“They are very well organized, technically pretty sharp and full of energy.”

They also pose a big threat with their penalty corners and Cupper added: “As a team we know we’ve got to put in a performance.

“We’ve got to be consistent in our play, work hard all over the pitch we have to be very disciplined. It will be hard but we are trying to build something.”

Bristol Firebrands won their most recent game 6-1 at home to Taunton Vale and have scored 10 goals in their three away games so far.

But Cheltenham, who finished runners-up to Cardiff & Met in the division last season, can take confidence from the fact they finished one place and two points above Bristol Firebrands in 2024/25.  

Saturday’s game at Balcarras School starts at 2pm.