The team's conquerors on that occasion, Coventry, were set to play host last night in the latest round of the Knockout Cup games.

Coach Richard Massey, who insisted this week that his extended stay in Belgium was purely down to scouting for new players and not passport irregularities as suggested, has no doubts as to where the focus is directed for the rest of the season.

"We need to win a match,” he said.

“We will do this by our new players gradually developing their skills until it comes together."

A capacity crowd, as always at this venue, is expected.

On Sunday, Matlock entertain Hucknall and then on the following day travel to Bingham in what should both be good league games.

Despite wealthy club chairman Dave Frost's continued displeasure at some of the players’ out-of-pool lifestyles being expressed long distance from his luxury cruise off the Spanish coast, a social night over the Bank Holiday weekend went ahead and was met with great success, proving that team spirit is good and ready to move the club forward.

A noteable absentee was Andy Whitehead, who joined the club at the beginning of the season and was showing great enthusiasm and promise.

A good character and club member, Andy's move back to the north west has been met with great regret and sadness by all.

The club wishes him the very best.

For more club information, please log on to www.matlockwaterpoloclubbtik.com.