While Lisnagarvey have run away with the EY Hockey league and secured the first Irish place in Europe, what remains is who will end up in the top four and playoffs for the Champions Trophy.

Garvey’s win means they have qualified for position two in Europe with the Champions Trophy winner taking the position one Irish slot.

Monkstown will have their eye on that although last week’s 0-0 draw with Glenanne suggests it’s not going to be a straight forward run in to the end.

The draw with Monkstown also triggers interest from Glenanne as it leaves the Tallaght side tantalising close to a coveted place in the playoffs. Glenanne are currently sitting on 20 points, the same as Three Rock Rovers.

Pembroke are also sticking their noses into position and although they currently occupy sixth place, if results go their way, they could make a late surge.

That makes their game against Three Rock Rovers in Grange Road a pivotal fixture for both clubs on Saturday.

Three Rock Rovers drew with Cork C of I last week, while Pembroke are coming into the match following a 3-2 win over Railway Union.

A Pembroke win would throw them right into the mix as could a home result for Railway Union. In reality there are still seven teams competing for a place in the Champions Trophy with just three weekends remaining.

FIXTURES Saturday EY Hockey league – Railway Union v Annadale, Park Avenue 2.00; Cork C of I v Banbridge, Garryduff 2.30; Lisnagarvey v Glenanne, Hillsborough 3.00; Monkstown v Cookstown, Rathdown 4.00; Three Rock Rovers v Pembroke, Grange Road 4.00.