TYNEDALE Ladies started the new year against strong opposition in windy conditions, and went down 7-2 against Newcastle-based Medics.

The opening 20 minutes saw home side Tynedale defend strongly, holding back the relentless waves of Medics attacks.

Good communication and determination in the Tynedale midfield and defence meant that the high quality Medics midfield and attack were repeatedly thwarted.

However, the visitors eventually broke the deadlock and in doing so scored three quick goals in succession, despite the efforts of goalkeeper Nicky Baguley.

With a sustained spell of Medics pressure before half time, Baguley was called into action once again to prevent another threatening attack.

A powerful aerial strike from Medics was goal-bound but Sue Crawford managed an acrobatic overhead clearance to keep the visitors at bay.

The second half saw Tynedale enjoy their own period of dominance, with Immie Pearson, Victoria Foster and Naomi Garner interlinking superbly.

With added support from Alison Westworth and Jessie Ridley, the home pressure paid off with two goals scored by player of the match Rachael Smith.

The first goal saw Hattie Brown cleverly deflect the ball across the goal to allow Smith to slot the ball into the back of the net.

Tynedale’s second was from a short corner. Sarah Martindale had a shot blocked, but the ball fell to Crawford whose reverse stick effort fell to Smith, who pounced and sent the ball high into the goal for her second of the match.

Tynedale had reduced the deficit to 3-2, but they were unable to find an equaliser. Unfortunately for the hosts, Medics upped their game and unpicked Tynedale to score four more.