AMBLESIDE Ladies Hockey Club put up a gallant display despite losing 4-0 to undefeated league leaders Penrith at The Cinderovens Playing Surface in Kendal.

Penrith who have won every single game, have scored a phenomenal total of 136 goals and have conceded just six, something in which an ever improving Ambleside team were aware of prior to the game.

Ambleside who went into the game on a good run of form which included an impressive 2-0 win over second placed Ulverston made a sluggish start in a relatively scrappy start. However Penrith struck the first blow on the youthful hosts after Claire Hewson scored from within the D following a good ball across the area.

Penrith created a few chances from that point however Ambleside began to cause problems for the league leaders with Donna Robinson and Jess Young creating half opportunities on the visiting goal.

Ambleside began to get their passing together as Penrith were put under pressure in a crucial period of that first half.

However despite the positive intent from the home team, it was Penrith who extended their lead when a good attacking move saw Hewson score past the keeper.

Penrith buoyed by their second goal began to play more free flowing hockey with Barbara Deane making it 3-0 on the stroke of half time.

Ambleside battled during the second half and attempted to cause problems for the visitors while defending well and seeing off their attacking threat.

Both teams continued to compete in a relatively hard fought second half, with Ambleside showing their improvement.

Penrith though always looked dangerous going forward and finished the game off late on when Lisa Shaw drilled the ball past the Ambleside keeper.

Ambleside created a late opportunity, before Penrith closed out the game as they secured yet another win, while the hosts can be encouraged by their performance despite the defeat.