Honours even as top two clash in north east

SECOND PLACED Halifax Ladies faced the first of their journeys to the North East following a league restructure with everything to play for as they faced Newcastle, the early leaders of North East Division Two.

Halifax came out fighting and controlled the game for the first 15 minutes, resulting in Newcastle conceding a penalty flick, which Lauren Vials converted confidently to put the visitors ahead.

The remainder of the first half saw both sides battle for possession with Halifax looking strong but unable to capitalise, despite having several opportunities from short corners.

A short corner from Newcastle hit the back of the net above backboard height and after much deliberation from the umpires a goal was awarded to tie the scores just before half-time.

The second half saw both teams battling hard to gain the win. Amelie Horner created chances in attack but could not beat the home keeper.

Cassie Barker had to be on top form to deny Newcastle at the other end of the pitch and just before the final whistle Amy March made a fantastic stop and clearance from the goalline when Newcastle thought they were going to steal the win.

The 1-1 draw saw both teams finish the day as they started it, in first and second place, as the rest of the teams at the top of the division failed to take advantage of them sharing the points.

HALIFAX LADIES V had a hard day at the office, going down 8-0 against a rampant Wakefield.

From the off Wakefield’s forwards were dominant, giving debutant Daisy Tomlinson, Sasha Penny-Ward, Alice Buckle and Alicia Power a run for their money.

Izzie Sutcliffe had some good runs, but Halifax were unable to finish with a goal.

At the other end of the pitch, Wakefield’s experience showed and at half time Halifax found themselves 5-0 down.

After a reshuffle, Halifax started to play better, with Sam Sutcliffe and Michelle Tomlinson on the left running the ball.

Despite that, Wakefield notched another three goals.