DESPITE losing 4-2 to neighbours York St Johns 2nds in division six of the Yorkshire League, City of York ladies III have secured second place and promotion to division five.

Becky Copperthwaite opened the scoring for York, but an injury to player of the year Anwen Hughes disrupted York's confidence, St John's running in four goals from Emma Gordon, Jenny Robinson, Helen Shiletto, Sue Headly before Copperthwaite scored York's second.

But, needing just two points from the last two games, York subsequently discovered that their final re-arranged game at home to Adel IV has been conceded by the visitors, confirming York's promotion. The students are in fourth place in the table.

Copperthwaite finished the season as top scorer with 24 goals as York smashed in 65 league goals and conceded just 16.

In division two, City of York ladies II drew 0-0 at home to Doncaster III.

After an even first half, hard work in midfield from Eleanor Grummitt and Lucy Carlisle gave York the edge after the break with Lucy Butcher and Rosie Evans both going close.

Doncaster came back late on but fine saves by York 'keeper Lynne Gowland, and a goal-line clearance by Rachel Evans, ensured the points were shared.

The teams meet again next week at Doncaster in the last game of the season.

In their final league game of the season, Acomb ladies I gained the win they required to avoid relegation from division one.

They beat Otlensians I 4-0 with Sally Banks' opener from the edge of the 'D' setting the York side on their way.

Pippa Hughes, the game's star player, scored a second before Acomb found themselves on the back foot with some fine attacking by Otlensians. A full-length diving save by 'keeper Kirsty Cooper and a save off the line by Sally Harrison kept the Acomb goal intact.

Otlensians pushed players forward after the break and further goal-line clearances again by Harrison and Carol Orton prevented goals.

Acomb continually threatened on the break and were rewarded by a well-worked short corner routine with Kerry Rafton converting. A mix-up in the opposition's defence saw the 'keeper drag the ball into her net with the goal credited to Rafton after a fine run from Banks.

York St John's College ladies I did not play but are assured promotion after topping division four.

Updated: 10:06 Tuesday, April 08, 2003