Hartlepool United suffered a frustrating afternoon against Wallsend BC Women, letting a two-goal lead slip to lose 3-2 at Grayfields.
Two superb strikes from Anya Geary and Emily Stuart had Pools in the driving seat in the first half but they fell victim to a comeback by the visitors.
Wallsend started the stronger of the two sides and tested Pools keeper Lauren Ranson in the early stages, but the shot-stopper stood up well to block an attempt on goal. The Tynesiders also flashed a succession of shots wide early on.
Hartlepool went ahead in the 12th minute thanks to an inspired piece of skill. Geary picked up the ball 30 yards from goal, drove forward towards the edge of the box, before lifting a delicate finish over the keeper into the top corner.
This lifted Craig Bage’s side, who took control of the play and looked to extend their lead. They went agonisingly close to going two ahead. Leo Kennedy’s corner was flicked on by Lottie Portas but the midfielder’s goalbound effort was cleared off the line.
Pools’ second goal came in the 33rd minute and it was another contender for a goal of the season award. Captain Emily Stuart was found in space 25 yards out and hit an unstoppable strike, high out of the goalkeeper’s reach, to make it 2-0.
Wallsend were in no mood to lick their wounds after going behind and quickly reduced the deficit. A searching through ball found Jess White who chested the ball down before firing a confident strike past Ranson.
Hartlepool had opportunities to regain their two-goal lead before the break. Jade Pye curled a shot just wide from the edge of the box. However, it would be the visitors to net on the stroke of half-time. Erin Donachie was deemed to have beaten the Pools offside trap and slotted past Ranson to level the game.
The momentum was now firmly behind the Tynesiders and they completed their comeback early in the second half. A speculative effort from White flew high into the air before striking the crossbar, and Donachie was on hand to nod in the rebound.
Wallsend saw out the remainder of the game in a professional manner to take the win. The visitors frustrated a Hartlepool side who battled hard but struggled to create opportunities in the second half and take something from the game. Pools now have a two-week break before they aim to bounce back at home to Sunderland West End on the December 3.