A SPORTING gesture led to a satisfying reward for Hexham’ in the Pin Point U16 Girls League.

They travelled to Newcastle Westgate, who only had seven players available for the match, so Hexham agreed to play a seven-a-side game to ensure there was no numerical advantage.

It meant Hexham had four substitutes available, and the ability to introduce fresh legs contributed to a comfortable victory, during which Hexham scored six goals.

The game was played out in four 15-minute sections, which enabled drinks breaks, and allowed Hexham to make substitutions without disrupting play.

Hexham FC’s Cheryl Hutchinson said: “We did play some very attractive football. The little one-twos, using our goalkeeper as an extra outfield player when needed, and finishing off some good moves with well taken goals, were all positives.

“Huge credit to both teams for the respect they showed each other and how they all conducted themselves in very sportingly way throughout.”

l In the Northumberland Girls League, Wylam Rockettes U14 won 2-1 away to Blyth Town Pumas. A fantastic shot from the edge of the box into the top corner by Kiera Beck gave the Rockettes an early lead. Blyth pulled a goal back before Molly Pigg scored to make it 2-1 after her shot hit the inside of the post on its way in. Wylam, steadied in defence by girl of the game Georgina Harland, continued to create chances in the second half, but could not add to their tally. Charlotte Norton struck the crossbar.

Wylam Rockettes U16 won a hard fought local derby away at Hexham. Wylam’s left back Isabelle Lewis put in girl of the game performance in defence, and also started a number of counter attacks. Stacey Billinghurst and Josie Fenwick scored two apiece.

Wylam Rockettes U18 Real won 2-1 away at Newcastle East End in a game played in a strong wind. Real never looked in trouble at the back, with girl of the game Rosa Edwards in impressive form, ably supported by Anna Harding, Anna Robson and Elley Rayne. Georgia Briggs scored two very similar thunderbolts in the first half, both from a tight angle and on both occasions using her speed to beat the offside trap. Sandwiched in between was East End’s goal, on the counter.

Wylam Rockettes U18 United lost 4-2 away to league leaders Cramlington Town. Bethan Newman scored to give United a 1-0 lead at half time. After Cramlington equalised early in the second half, Charlotte Murray restored United’s lead with an outstanding strike, before Cramlington scored three without reply.