A DISALLOWED strike ripped City of York HC ladies first team’s hopes of maximum North League division one points at Pendle Forest.

York started well, applying pressure. Opportunities fell their way, but they were unable to convert a series of passes produced by Sam Binns.

As the hosts countered, goalkeeper Michelle Powell quelled the pressure.

Finally, York took the lead when joint player of the match Loz Pearey passed to Sal Sleightholme, whose cross was tapped in by Laura Horne at the back post.

After a succession of short corners, York thought they had doubled their lead. But the umpires saw an infringement and the effort was ruled out.

Pendle were quick to pull a goal back at the start of the second half.

Although York battled hard, earning short corners and creating opportunities they could not find a winner.

The other player of the match, Powell, kept a grip on parity with several timely saves.

Top spot in Yorkshire League division one was maintained by City of York HC ladies’ seconds after they walloped visitors Otliensians 5-0.

A blank first half was followed by a York surge in which Vicky Skilton scored from a reverse stick shot.

From then on the hosts seized command with further goals from player of the match Annabel Lee (2), Rachel Bassett and Paula Clough.

Despite taking an early lead, City of York ladies fifths lost 4-1 to Pickering I in division six of the Yorkshire League.

The visitors’ goals came after half-time from Lisa Hornby (2), Kat Hardwick and Hannah Hairsine.