A five-goal Tim Davenport salvo helped TeamBath Buccaneers men’s firsts stretch their lead at the top of England Hockey League Conference West to nine points.

Davenport netted five times in Buccs’ 7-3 win over the University of Birmingham at the Sports Training Village on Sunday as Buccs made it eight wins from eight.

Bournville’s 5-4 win over second-placed Whitchurch helped extend Buccs’ lead at the top of the table. Buccs now travel to Whitchurch on Saturday (21st November).

Davenport opened the scoring on Sunday but Buccs still found themselves 2-1 down at the interval.

James Kellock levelled up six minutes after the break before the visitors scored again to restore their lead.

But then Davenport struck, with goals on 53, 55, 56 and 58 minutes to put the game beyond Birmingham’s reach, before rounded off the scoring Richard Bendry 10 minutes from time.

Buccs ladies’ firsts drew 3-3 at Staines at the weekend and are seventh in Conference West.

Eleanor Stones scored for Buccs in the first half with Tash Dykes and Zoe Shipperley netting in the second half to wipe out a 3-1 deficit and earn a point.

They have a local derby against Firebrands at the Sports Training Village on Sunday (22nd November), starting at 1.30pm.

The University of Bath has one of the leading university sports departments in the UK. Under its TeamBath brand, its success is based on the expertise and dedication of staff, and its excellent facilities, used by the community and Olympic medal winners alike.

Members of the media who require further information can contact the TeamBath Press Office at Matchtight Ltd on (01225) 383518 or 01225 443998 or see the TeamBath website at www.teambath.com