Whitley Bay & Tynemouth 1 Ben Rhydding 2

BEN Rhydding completed the double over a tough and physical Whitley Bay side to maintain their hold on third place going into the Christmas break.

Rhydding started well and were gifted the lead after six minutes when a home defender gifted the ball to Laura Smith who made no mistake.

The experienced Rachel Doherty had a great shot saved by the Whitley Bay keeper as Rhydding went in at the break leading 1-0.

Rhydding were given a golden chance to extend their lead when they were awarded a penalty stroke but Tanisha Janzen’s effort was saved.

The game started to slip away from Rhydding when three cards were given in a short spell of time, which appeared to be harsh decisions from the umpires.

The last 15 minutes proved eventful with Whitley Bay scoring a penalty corner just before the hour.

Rhydding’s reply was immediate with a Sarah Bell deflection off a well-worked penalty corner producing the winning goal.

The well-earned three points sees Rhydding sitting third over the Christmas break. The girls will play indoor hockey during the festive period and will resume their outdoor league campaign in early February.