NORTHALLERTON Hockey Club's first team look set to finish the season in their highest ever league position - fifth in division one of the Yorkshire League.

The side played two games in two days to complete their 2015/16 fixtures at the weekend. On Saturday they suffered a disappointing 3-2 defeat away to Tadcaster Magnets with goals from Hannah Chapman and player of the match Becky Carson.

On Sunday, Northallerton travelled away to fourth-placed Ben Rhydding thirds, determined to make up for Saturday's loss.

Becky Carson, who was again voted player of the match, opened the scoring in an end to end first half. Rhydding hit straight back, but goals from Ellie Hore and Jo Robinson put Northallerton 3-1 ahead.

Rhydding pulled a goal back on the stroke of half-time, and looked dangerous in the early stages of the second period, with captain Rachel Swain in the Northallerton goal forced into several sharp saves.

But Northallerton came back into the game and with Carson linking between midfield and the forward line, the side strung together a series of sharp passing moves which ended in two goals for Sandra Horner. Centre forward Emily Crisp created both with calm passes to wrong-foot the Rhydding 'keeper.

The 5-2 scoreline should see Northallerton finish in fifth position, with Hull in sixth three points behind with a game in hand, but an inferior goal-difference.

Swain said: "I'm really proud of the team. Sunday's match was a great way to round off a successful season."

The club's second team also finished the season well, with a 2-2 draw at home to Tadcaster Magnets seconds.

Sandra Horner scored with a scooped effort over the goal-keeper before Tadcaster drew level. Anya Berresford put Northallerton back in front, but Tadcaster finished strongly and equalised with just two minutes left on the clock.

The player of the match award went to Megan Bell, who put an excellent performance up front.