Women's English League: Rover Oxford battled hard to gain a valuable Division 2 point in a 1-1 draw at home to a spirited St Albans side.

Claire Norton on the charge for Rover

The visitors, who are coached by Great Britain international Julian Halls, made the stronger start with some neat passing and quick movement.

Both sides created chances with Vicky Mankelow having a shot saved at close range after good work on the right flank from the pacy Clare Norton.

Almost immediately, a St Albans attack led to a penalty corner which resulted in a penalty stroke for a deliberate foul.

Sunny Carter, a Rover player last season, stepped up to take the stroke, but was foiled by an excellent save by Liz Say.

Rover then took control of the rest of the half, with chances from Mankelow and Lyn Cockshott being well saved.

In the second half, Rover got off to a dream start, scoring inside the first minute when Norton outpaced the St Albans defence and delivered a perfect cross for Mankelow to slot home.

However, a determined St Albans hit back in the 47th minute. A free hit on the 25 found an unmarked St Albans player in the circle, and although her first shot was well-saved by Say, the rebound was crashed home.

Rover then took the game to the visitors but, despite winning the short corner count 10-4, they were unable to force a winner.