IT was a mixed weekend for Ben Rhydding Hockey Club with both their men and women's teams in action.

The latter travelled to Stourport and were quick off the mark in this game against struggling home side.

Rhydding made a lightning quick start and were ahead after just three minutes, as a great ball in from Sophie Davies and a wonder deflection from Amy Booth put them 1-0 in front.

With a squad of just 12, Rhydding women kept possession from that point on, playing through Jess Triffit and with wide runs pinning down the line from Kirsty Goodbold and Poppy Lawson. Stourport's only threat being a quick break through the middle, requiring a fantastic save from Charlotte Smith.

Going into the second half there were lots of chances for the visitors with Rachel Doherty and Lizzie Gibbins looking threatening in the final third but were just unable to get the ball in the net.

This period also saw a more physical game and flurry of cards for both teams with India Burns having to ride the wave of fouls from the opposition.

Going into the final quarter, the larger Stourport players had the legs advantage over Ben Rhydding. Solid tackles from Rachelle LeBourdon and Millie Jeavons kept the advancing Stourport attackers out, with the marauding Rebecca O’Toole, channelling her inner braveheart down the left side.

The final score finished at 1-0 to Ben Rhydding , and the visitors were able to return home with three points.

Lindum 5 - 1 Ben Rhydding

As for the men's side, knowing that league leaders Lindum had just faced their first defeat of the season, Ben Rhydding knew they would be in for a tough away affair. As with any side losing, good teams want to bounce back as soon as possible.

Lindum dominated possession creating a couple of early chances. Rhydding then grew into the game, confidence growing throughout the first quarter and deservedly found themselves in a winning position after Callum Franks neatly slotted home to put Rhydding 1-0 at the end of the quarter.

The hosts adjusted well to Rhydding’s game plan and quickly saw themselves 2-1 in front, both goals coming in quick succession. The game went on with neither side showing much room for error. The final quarter started and saw Rhydding throw everything at trying flip the score-line. Sadly, Lindum showed their quality this season scoring 3 quick goals to run out 5-1 winners. A game of high quality and a great advert for National League hockey. Despite the loss Ben Rhydding stay in 4th place in the division and have now/also secured National League status for next season.