INVERLEITH coach Stuart Neave admitted that his men face a tough opening day in the defence of the Scottish Division One indoor hockey crown on Saturday.
But the Fife-based playcaller is unconcerned as the business end of the season is when clubs reach the group stages in January.
Neave confirmed that his squad has been training for two weeks ahead of the opening day at Bell’s Sports Centre, Perth.
Inverleith play Bromac Kelburne (10.10), Edinburgh rivals Grange (13.50) and Grove Menzieshill, last season’s runners-up, in the final game at 17.30.
Neave said: I’m looking forward to the new indoor season but unfortunately we have lost the services of Gordon Amour, Jamie Wong and Ian Moodie but fortunately gained Andrew and Craig Sinclair.
“However, the appearances of Andrew and Craig will be limited due to work commitments.”
He added: “I think it is fair to say that it is a tough opening day, given the caliber of the opposition and three matches.
“However, with the current format of the league, the opening encounters will simply give teams the opportunity to get reacquainted until we reach the group stages in January.
“Our target, as it has been for the last few seasons, is to try and retain the indoor league title.
“We are under no illusions that this will be easy and look forward to a competitive season.”
Grange open the tournament against Dundee-based Grove at 9.15am and also play Hillhead at 16.35.

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