NORTHALLERTON lost 3-1 at home to Wakefield on Saturday in their opening fixture of the Yorkshire League season.

The home side had all the play in the first half, creating a series of chances which were well defended by Wakefield – including their keeper, who saved a string of shots.

Alice Thompson, playing her first match for Northallerton, combined well with Claire Chapman on the left, while Jo Robinson drove the team forward from midfield.

As the first half wore on, Northallerton increased the pressure, but were caught out twice with quick breaks when the same Wakefield player sprinted clear to score from a tight angle.

The second half proved more evenly matched, with both sides attacking strongly.

Northallerton won a penalty stroke but captain Sarah Mc- Donald’s effort was well saved by the in-form keeper.

Wakefield scored their third when a shot from the edge of the circle deflected into the Northallerton goal.

Northallerton pulled one back ten minutes from time when Hannah Chapman slotted in Becky Carson’s pinpoint cross. But it proved too late for them to get back in, and Wakefield defended strongly in the closing stages to take all three points.

The player of the match award was shared by Thompson and Hannah Chapman.

THIRSK men’s first team got off to a great start with a 3-2 win against Halifax.

Thirsk had a good early chance through a shortcorner but Halifax struck first striking past goalkeeper Mason Fenlon. A well-improvised shortcorner saw Sam Gardiner equalise for Thirsk.

Halifax struck back to lead before half time.

Man of the match Sam Taylor drew Thirsk level with a great solo effort before a great interchange between Gardiner and Paul Doyle saw Doyle put Thirsk into the lead.

The second team saw eight players making their debut. A very strong performance saw Thirsk dominate in a 7-0 victory with Arthur Hunt (2), Oliver Houseman, Sam Bosomworth, Mark Robinson, Tom Westgate and Otis Williams all on the scoresheet.

Thirsk Ladies first team started with a home game against Chapeltown.

Thirsk defended stoutly and broke free for Spanner to strike them into the lead which thanks to great saves from keeper Val they held onto for the first half.

Lynne doubled Thirsk’s lead before Chapeltown pulled one back but Thirsk held on for the victory.