St Albans men’s hockey team thrashed Dereham 8-1 at Oaklands to move up to joint second in the East of England Premier League.

The crushing victory came thanks to goals from Adam Jones (2), Jacob Langley, Matthew Davey, Mark Lowden, Steve Friend, James Champion and Alex Spencer. It has taken the Tangerines just three points off league leaders Wapping with two games left in the season.

The men’s Seconds drew 2-2 with Richmond after Scott Apps scored twice while the Thirds beat Richmond Griffins 2-1 with efforts from Apps and Alby Cohen. The men's Eighths were also celebrating after winning 1-0 against Berkhamstead. Andy Goulding’s goal secured promotion to Division 8SW of the East of England hockey league.

In the ladies section, the over-45s won their quarter final of the England Hockey Plate competition after beating Letchworth 4-1. Mary Oswin, Sian Ireland and Benny Anton (2) all fired home for the Tangerines.

The Ladies Seconds drew 2-2 against Upminster and the ladies Thirds were held 1-1 by local rivals Harpenden with Amy Lynn appearing on the scoresheet for St Albans.

Goals from Nikki Davies and Steph Hurst gave the ladies Fourths a 2-1 victory against Bedford and the Boadiceas won 2-1 against Royston with goals from Benny Anton and Lou Jackman.

The club also honoured umpire Quentin Keeling this weekend for the outstanding achievement of umpiring his 500th match for St Albans. He was presented with an engraved whistle on behalf of the club.