CONCEDING two late goals saw Tynedale Hockey Ladies relinquish top spot in the Northumberland Women‘s B Division.

The goals proved costly as they ended up losing 4-2 at title rivals North Shields, the victory for the hosts allowing them to build up a three point gap at the top.

It was Tynedale’s first defeat of the season, and they enjoy a two games in hand advantage.

Tyne travelled to Shields missing three key players, but they were still able to field a good team and it made for a close, well fought game between the division‘s top two teams.

North Shields’ defence remained solid throughout the first half to prevent Tynedale breaking through, the home side opening the scoring during the first period.

Tynedale were more settled after the break and tied the scores from a short corner, Alison Westworth with an excellent strike for 1-1.

Shields regained the lead but Tynedale again countered with an equaliser, Sue Crawford deflecting a short corner home.

The game was finely balanced at 2-2 and Tynedale‘s defence were working well alongside goalkeeper Nicky Baguley in the visitors’ goal.

However, their hard work went unrewarded when Shields poured all 10 players forward and found the two goals which sent them clear at the top of the table.