Hartlepool United Women got their league season underway on Sunday afternoon, taking a point from an entertaining 4-4 draw with Bishop Auckland at Metcalfe Park.

The visitors took the lead in the first minute through Steph Box, however Pools levelled on 25 minutes as Zara Johnson played Libbie Trainor who finished coolly.

Box regained Bishop Auckland’s lead after the half-hour mark from distance, only for Johnson to make it 2-2 before the break following a scramble in the box.

Alex Curl’s side took the lead for the first time on 55 minutes after Trainor went down in the box, with Johnson converting the penalty kick. However, ten minutes later, Sophie Davies equalised for Bishop Auckland before Tamzin Burnham stuck them ahead within seconds.

But as the clock ticked down, Liv Bell stepped up for Pools to find a 90th minute equaliser to rescue a point on the opening day.

“It was a positive performance from the players,” assessed Pools Women manager Curl.

“There were a lot of things to take forward, and on another day the result goes our way but unfortunately we couldn’t get all three points.

“A few individuals errors cost us in bad moments, but I have to say the character shown by the squad was immense. To come back from behind on three occasions shows real team strength and fight.

“It’s a young team that is still gelling together and that will take time. Performances will only get better and results will come. All in all, it’s a good start to our league campaign.”

Next up for the Women’s side is a trip to Chester-le-Street Town next Sunday in league action.

“It’s our first away game of the season against a side that got off to a winning start – it will be a real test,” added Curl.

“Chester-le-Street will be looking to push on and progress from their league finish last year.

“With another game under our belt, the players are beginning to understand each other’s strengths. It’s important that we stick together when results don’t go our way, especially when the performances are strong.

“I’m hopeful to have a bigger squad as we progress into the season to help give a burst of energy during games.”

Image by Joe Gorman