CITY of York Ladies II hockey team resumed their season in division two of the Yorkshire League with a 4-2 win at Northallerton.

York started brightly only for Northallerton to open the scoring after five miutes with a breakaway goal.

Undaunted, York soon regained the initiative with Sally Powell equalising before half-time. York strengthened their grip in the second period when Kate Longbotham rounded two defenders and the 'keeper to score and then Powell completed her hat-trick with two well-taken goals. Northallerton replied with a consolation goal late on.

In division six, City of York III lost 4-0 to local rivals, York University, while in division seven, a youthful City of York IV lost 3-1 away to a much more experienced Ben Rhydding V. Steph Pearson scored York's goal and 'keeper April Watson made some fine saves.

Acomb Ladies I were denied victory at Sheffield, who netted twice in the closing stages to force a 2-2 draw.

Great goalkeeping by Kirsty Cooper kept Acomb in the hunt in the first half and Amy Linfoot was able to fire Acomb ahead from five yards against the run of play.

Sheffield piled on the pressure in the second half but Cooper and defender Danielle Courtine stood firm and the visitors increased their lead with a rare raid, Kerry Rafton knocking the ball in from a penalty corner.

With just three minutes left, Acomb thought they had snatched a priceless victory, but their brave defence was punctured twice in the dying stages.

Acomb Ladies II drew 2-2 with Heckmondwike after being 2-0 down.

Updated: 12:18 Tuesday, January 15, 2002