Kendal Ladies Hockey Club crashed to a 4-1 defeat to league leaders Leeds at the Cinder ovens playing surface in Kendal.

The Ladies who had played their first game for a number of weeks battled throughout and pushed the league leaders all the way especially in the first half. However Leeds who are still undefeated overpowered Kendal in the second half as they eased to victory.

Kendal made a positive start on a cold and rain Saturday afternoon, as Vicky Jones, Kate Froggatt and Ebony Townley all tested the Leeds goalkeeper.

The hosts continued to press however Leeds defended well and looked dangerous on the break as they continuously surged forward as Kendal were pushed back.

Leeds opened the scoring 15 minutes into the first half when Holly Oldham finished well from close range.

Kendal responded five minutes later when Townley was left unmarked in the D before drilling the ball home past the Leeds keeper.

The goal gave Kendal some momentum as they pressed Leeds back albeit without being able to find a finish on goal, while the visitors once in possession of the ball always looked dangerous as both sides were locked at one a piece going into half time.

Leeds made the stronger start to the second half and regained the lead through Rosie Tootall, before she added her second soon after as Leeds raced into a 3-1 lead.

Kendal continued to battle however they were left exposed at the back, allowing Sarah Hope to add a fourth to round off a comfortable display by the visitors, while Kendal disappointed with defeat will be proud of their efforts especially as they played a lot of youngsters within their squad.

Kendal travel to the City of York on Saturday.