SHARP-SHOOTER Katherine Birch hit top form for City of York Hockey Club Under-11s as they won the North Yorkshire Yazoo Minis.

Birch netted five goals in an 8-0 demolition of Thirsk, which set York on the road to a tournament win.

Lauren Ellwood bagged two goals against Thirsk and Rebecca Birch got one as York got off to a cracking start. Anna Clarke and Anna Kilmartin played well in defence and ensured Fiona Hunter never got to touch the ball in goal.

The younger team members – Karis Hays, Hannah Woosey, Thea Davies, Emily Cooper and Imogen Boddy – fought hard in midfield and gained experience from their first game on a larger pitch.

Katherine Birch was also on target in the second game as York beat Cundall Manor 1-0.

York’s younger players struggled at first and the scores were level at half-time, but a few team changes brought about a victory.

Harrogate proved the toughest opposition as game three ended in a goalless draw.

Hunter was excellent in goal and, despite some scuffles very close to the line, kept a well-earned clean sheet for the tournament. Imogen Boddy moved into defence and made some solid blocks and clearances. York won the title on goal difference with Harrogate runners-up. The two sides will represent North Yorkshire in the next round on March 15.