BEN Rhydding Hockey Club were in action over the weekend, with both the women and men teams playing.

The women’s first team faced Pendle Forest in their second match of the season, eager to bounce back after their opening defeat.

From the start, the ladies showcased their determination, dominating the first quarter with aggressive attacking play.

Their efforts paid off when they won a short corner, executed with precision. Kirsty Goodall converted with a stunning deflection at the left post, giving Rhydding a 1-0 lead.

Shortly after, another short corner resulted in Rita Box scoring her first National League goal, extending the lead to 2-0.

However, Pendle Forest responded strongly, capitalising on a defensive lapse from Rhydding to make it 2-1 before half-time.

The second half proved challenging for Rhydding as they struggled to find their rhythm and struggled with some of the umpiring decisions. Pendle Forest took advantage of the situation, equalizing at 2-2 as they broke through the defence.

Despite several opportunities in the final quarter, Rhydding couldn’t convert their chances. The match ended in a frustrating 2-2 draw, but the ladies secured their first point of the season.

Next week, the team will face Wakefield at home and hope for a more decisive performance and a well-deserved victory.

For the men, Oxton were the visitors, as Ben Rhydding played their first home game of the EHL North Conference, Oxton running out 2-1 winners.

The first half ended 0-0, but Rhydding came the closest to opening the scoring in the first quarter, when Tom Kendall shot wide following some good work down the left-hand side. Oxton were happy to sit deep, absorb pressure and play on the break.

Oxton took the lead in the third quarter through Ethan Price on 39 minutes, his pass across the circle was deflected into the Rhydding goal. Oxton doubled their lead on 51st minute through Benji Sedgwick following a turnover in the Rhydding 25.

Will Musgrave reduced the deficit on 58 minutes from a penalty stroke following a foul in the circle. From then it was all Rhydding who pushed forward in search of the equaliser, forcing several penalty corners. However, the Oxton keeper Tom Mealor stood firm to deny Rhydding’s attempts at goal and seal the points for the visitors.

Next up for Ben Rhydding are Wakefield who travel to Ilkley on Sunday 6 October at 2pm.