Ben Rhydding 2 Cannock 2

A last-ditch equaliser from a penalty corner denied Ben Rhydding their first Women’s National Hockey Conference North win on Saturday.

The large home crowd saw Ben Rhydding start confidently and dominate play for most of the first half. Kim Robinson in goal was barely troubled.

Forwards Rachel Doherty and Kate Hesketh forced the Cannock keeper into action several times but failed to convert their chances. Shortly before half-time Cannock took a shock lead.

Rhydding were anxious to get their first points and started the second half as the more composed team.

Forward Rebecca Dallas was a menace and her silky stick skills earned several penalty corners for her team. Rachelle Le Bourdon’s blistering strike deservedly made it 1-1.

It wasn’t long before Rhydding created another chance with some quick thinking from Jen Wilson who lifted the ball at goal.

A defender stopped the ball on the line with her foot and a penalty stroke was awarded.Wilson stepped up to take the penalty and coolly fgave her side the lead with five minutes to play.

On the brink of their first win, the nerves kicked in and Rhydding started to panic giving away possession in all areas of the pitch. The visitors were awarded a penalty corner in the dying seconds which they converted.

Rhydding play at Liverpool on Saturday.