Maddie Hinch: England keeper determined to cement place

Maddie Hinch says she is determined to establish herself as England women's first-choice goalkeeper.

The Holcombe stopper, who has won 21 international caps, has been the number one since Beth Storry announced her retirement earlier this year.

"Each game is becoming more comfortable for me but I still want to go out there and prove myself," the 25-year-old told BBC Radio Kent.

"I am still trying to make a name for myself. I can't take things lightly."

Hinch was left out of the Great Britain squad which won bronze at the London Olympics but has seen regular action in 2013.

The former Leicester keeper helped her country qualify for the World League Final, which begins at the end of this month, and was in goal as England lost the EuroHockey final to Germany on penalties in August.

Hinch was named as goalkeeper of the tournament at EuroHockey, and she says that the backing of women's coach Jason Lee has helped her with her game.

"I went into it with the coach's blessing," she said. "I had to take that confidence into my game as I want to prove myself.

"I knew I'd get compared to Beth. She was an unbelievable keeper and I have big shoes to fill.

"I believe in my abilities and for the coach to put me on the pitch was fantastic. I felt I grabbed my opportunity."

After playing second fiddle to Storry, Hinch says she has had to adapt to being number one for the national side.

"It is a different position to be in," she said. "Being number two or number three, you are always waiting for your chance.

"I know I will play now and I'm delighted to be out on the pitch. You could look at it as mine to lose but I'd rather be in my position.

"I will play as best I can and hopefully I will stay there for a little while."