HEAVY defeats struck both Acomb Hockey Club’s men’s teams.

The first XI, missing ill goalkeeper Mike Brown, lost 10-3 to Yorkshire League division three hosts Grimsby I, while the Tangerines’ second XI were beaten 5-0 at home by Harrogate IV in division eight.

The senior side were 3-0 down before Matt Dickenson reduced the arrears.

But despite a fine performance from joint man-of-the-match Simon Theaker in goal, more home plunder followed.

Dickenson and Pete Hilton, the latter teed up by the other man-of-the-match, Baz Whitfield, bagged two late goals.

Acomb 2nds’ goalkeeper Andrew Church pulled off a series of fine saves but was unable to prevent Harrogate rattling in five unanswered goals.

Church was Acomb’s star performer alongside defender John Armitage and midfielder Dave Richardson.

Acomb Mixed Team ended their protracted wait for their first home match of the season by beating Leeds Medics & Dentists Mixed XI 2-1.

Midway through, Acomb went ahead as Hannah Yoward deftly weaved past several defenders to slip the ball beyond the Leeds’ ’keeper.

Several chances went begging, while at the other end Kate Oldfield, Jonny Armitage, Ali Benson and Baz Whitfield were solid in defence.

Nick Linfoot doubled the advantage after the interval before Leeds poached a late consolation.