TYNEDALE have marked their return to the Northumberland A Hockey League with a top seven finish.

But the side, which won promotion to the top division last season, finished the current campaign with a heavy 7-2 defeat away to Morpeth II.

Having drawn against the same opposition earlier in the season, Tynedale went into the game in determined fashion.

Despite strong defending from captain Sarah Martindale, Lorraine Bell and Katy Brown, Tynedale went a goal behind.

The midfield interlinked well, and the visitors scored an equaliser when Immie Pearson drove down the right, and fired in a shot which was impressively steered into the net, at shoulder height, by Rachael Little.

Morpeth played strongly and scored a series of goals either side of half time as they unpicked Tynedale with strong attacks.

Becca Glaister scored a late consolation goal as her solo run saw her undercut the ball cleverly over the goalkeeper.

Player of the match was Tynedale keeper Nicky Baguley.

Tynedale’s run in the Northumberland Plate came to an end with a 7-0 defeat at Whitley Bay B.

Both sides missed goalscoring opportunities during an even first half.

Tyne defended resolutely, while midfielders Annie Anderson, Alison Westorth, and Esme Gallagher worked hard in the centre.

Numerous well linked attacks from Tynedale were thwarted by Whitley Bay, who were 2-0 up at half time.

A clinical second half performance from the hosts was a disappointing end to a good season.