CITY of York Ladies continued their worst-ever run in their ten-year membership of the North League when they suffered a 3-0 home reverse against Driffield.

Although there is no lack of spirit in the York side, they are badly missing long-term absentees in captain Sally Sleightholme, who was last season's leading goalscorer, and midfielder Cath Hewerdine.

With Katy Longbotham having an effective game at left defence, York fought hard in the first half only to concede a goal from a penalty corner right on half-time.

Driffield added a second goal from a penalty corner soon after the break and then made the game safe by scoring from open play.

Although York pressed hard towards the end, they were denied by some fine saves by Anne Farmiary in the Driffield goal.

In division two of the Yorkshire League, City of York II drew 1-1 at Richmond.

York took a first-half lead when Vicky Blair converted a right-wing cross from Rachel Messias, but Richmond equalised in the second half.

In division six, City of York III drew 1-1 with local rivals Acomb II, who took an early lead with a well-taken goal on the break.

Sara Hughes equalised for York with a shot from the edge of the area.

Acomb I kept up their unbeaten first division record with a 1-1 draw with Leeds Owls.

Acomb capitalised from early pressure when Sally Banks coolly put away a penalty stroke awarded for an offence by the Owls 'keeper, who went on to make some fine saves.

In the second half Acomb were still on top but a defensive error allowed Owls to equalise.

Tadcaster Ladies thrashed Bradford University 6-0, Sarah Pedder getting a hat-trick.

She quickly scored a couple of goals to put Tad in charge and completed her treble with the final goal of the day after Bec Cattle, Sarah Taylor and Angela McMillan had increased Tad's lead.

Poor finishing cost Tadcaster Men dear as they lost 3-0 at Grimsby in Yorkshire League division five.

Tadcaster Men's II drew 2-2 with Doncaster V in division eight with goals from Jason Hunt and Paul Oxtbley.

Tadcaster looked set for maximum points until Doncaster's centre forward snatched a last-gasp equaliser.

Tad's new central defensive partnership of Dyl Beardmore and J Nickles was impressive, while Oxtbley and Rob Hill shone in attack.

Updated: 11:28 Tuesday, November 13, 2001