Promoted Oxford Hawks went down 2-1 at St Albans in their opening Conference East game. St Albans took the lead with a well-drilled short corner routine.
But Hawks worked their way back into the game and a well-executed two-on-one play from youngsters Abi Florey and Charlotte Burrows saw the former dive in for the equaliser.
However, against the run of play, St Albans broke through again and buried the ball into the roof of the net. Hawks were forced to defend for much of the rest of the match, but good defence from Claire King and Cita Haines ensured the hosts didn’t add to their tally.
OTHER RESULTS
Oxford Hawks 2nd 2, Oxford 3rd 2; Oxford Hawks 4th 1 (L Phillips), Oxford 5th 1; Oxford Hawks 4th 1 (X Forrest), Oxford 6th 0.
CAPTAIN Natasha Nunneley capped a brace with a late winner as Banbury ended their pre-season build-up with a 3-2 home win over Henley.
Lara Wilkinson was also on target for Banbury, while Sue Sutton and Jane Jones scored for Henley.
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