A scrambled Slough goal four minutes before half-time sealed Trojans’ fate in an uninspiring Investec England Hockey Western Conference opener at Stoneham Lane.

Nora Ilkei's 31st minute winner followed a spell of Slough pressure, during which time the visitors forced several penalty corners.

Claire Gover pulled off several fine saves to deny Slough – last season's Western Conference runners-up – though a greater margin of defeat would have been unjust to a fresh looking Trojans side, who lost Charlotte Edwards with a cut forehead before half-time.

Edwards was taken to hospital for repairs, but is expected to be fit for Saturday’s visit to Cheltenham.

Trojans enjoyed plenty of the ball in the second half, but lacked confidence once they got into the final third of the pitch.

“We had 21 circle entries compared with Slough's 12, but couldn't create a clear opening other than the four penalty corners we forced late on,” reflected coach Chris Gittens.

“I was really happy with our pressing all over the pitch and how we moved the ball and picked Slough apart.

“There were lots of positives but ultimately we are frustrated not to have got a point.”

Gittens was impressed with American newcomer Molly Murphy on her debut and picked out an encouraging performance from England Under-18 prospect Hannah Leigh.

Trojans II, relegated from South League Division 3B last season, continued their warm-up for the new Hampshire League season with a 3-1 win at Aldershot & Farnham, where Anne Eadie, debutant Iona Tripp and Abby Roch, playing her first match in nine months, were on target.