FORTUNE did not favour City of York Ladies who hit the woodwork several times in their 3-1 North League defeat at home to league leaders Chester, whose 'keeper also made a series of good saves at the other end.

Chester made the most of their chances, scoring three goals from few clear-cut opportunities.

Their opener came with a firm shot following a good run from midfield with the second following a quick break just before half-time.

York hit a post twice before scoring early in the second half when Mandy Nesbit set up Sally Sleightholme.

But Chester quickly restored their two-goal advantage and, while York pressed forward, coming closest when Sleightholme's shot came back off a post, they found the visiting 'keeper in fine form.

In division two of the Yorkshire League, a Sue Draper hat-trick sealed City of York Ladies II's 3-2 win at Horsforth.

In division five, City of York Ladies III won 2-0 at home to Horsforth II, Lucy Stubbley scoring both goals from penalty corners.

City of York Ladies IV also had a good result in division six, winning 3-0 at Sheffield Hallam VI with goals from Susie Orton (2) and Brenda Strachan.

Stamford Bridge Ladies won 2-1 at Dunnington in the York and District Hockey League with goals from Adele Pryce and Jacqui Fountain.

Updated: 08:40 Tuesday, December 02, 2003