Yorkshire Hockey Association Women's Division Five North: Harrogate Fifths 7 Airedale Seconds 0

THE last meeting between the clubs saw Airedale put to the sword 6-0 at home – and they found things just as tough last weekend.

With the return of Claire White in goal alongside the defensive unit of Lesley Leach, Lindsey Carey, Kitty Blake and Georgina Mumby, they were hopeful of a better result.

The first half began well, with Airedale maintaining possession in midfield. But midway through, Harrogate opened the scoring and soon added an additional two goals to make it 3-0 at half-time.

Confident Harrogate scored another three blinding goals in quick succession, their use of aerial shots proving unstoppable.

Airedale picked their heads up and battled back. Player of the match Sam Fawcett was relentless in midfield, supporting both attack and defence.

She was supported by a vocal Katie Armitage on the right wing, who was consistently reliable to pick up and push the ball ahead. Adele Haughey showed dribbling skills in an attempt to create opportunities for forwards Niamh O’Reilly and Alex Fryer.

Despite Airedale's pressure, they couldn’t gain a stronghold in the D and Harrogate added a last-minute seventh on the counter-attack.

This was a disappointing result for Airedale, who battled wholeheartedly against flawless opponents.