But team spirit and the lure of post-game socialising is what makes the men from Leamington hockey club's first team pick up their sticks and don their red kit on a Saturday.

And, despite the team's poor run of results, their captain was sure they would eventually claim the elusive victory.

James Woolner, 28, from Whitnash, said: "We were confident we would eventually win as we have had a few draws against some top of the table teams. It was just about bringing it all together."

The well-earned 3-2 win came at the 18th time of asking in Leamington's home game against Whitchurch on February 15. But this may not be enough to save them from relegation.

He said: "We lost a few players at the end of last season so the core of the team has changed and we spent a lot of this season on a learning curve.

"We are starting to get better but unfortunately it is too late for us to have a big impact for the rest of the season."

Despite the team's problems James feels they have much to build on.

This optimism stems from the imminent introduction of a new coach, plans for a recruitment drive in the summer and a sense of camaraderie among his team mates.

He said: "The team have been very committed this year.

"Even in games where we haven't performed and been well beaten we have never given in. Umpires have come up to us and said 'we thought you played to the last and showed fighting spirit'

"Getting a win in this league was the least we deserved."

James believes that enjoying the social side of sport is just as important as success on the field.

He said: "We are a very friendly and social club - all our teams get on well and we often go on tours together. Joining Leamington proved to be a very good way to meet people when I moved to the area."

Leamington Hockey Club's first team play their home games at the Meadows sports centre in Kenilworth.

This will be the venue for their next league game against Stone on March 8.

www.Leamingtonhockeyclub.co.uk