Two second half goals saw Pools Women fall to a defeat on the road to Redcar Town Ladies on Sunday afternoon in the NERWFL Northern Division.

It was a battle at the bottom of the table, and Redcar struck first blood as Katie Rowland tucked home from a set-piece.

Paige Davis secured Redcar’s win with a neat finish, as Pools slipped below Town to 11th in the table on goal difference.

Alex Curl, Pools Women manager, provided his assessment at the full time whistle.

“We made a strong start to the game, creating chances in the first half and being very strong defensively,” he stated.

“We’re going through a difficult period with illness and injuries at the moment and that began to show. We managed to control the pace of the game until legs grew tired in the 60th minute.

“Redcar took the lead with a set-piece which is always a disappointing way to concede. We then had to push and become more open, leaving us short at the back to be hit on the counter.

“A clinical Redcar team made it 2-0 shortly after. We dominated the remainder of the game but couldn’t break down the stubborn back 5 of Redcar.

“It’s another steep learning curve for myself and my young squad, but we will continue to work and bounce back from this difficult start.”

Pools return to Metcalfe Park next Sunday at 2pm, welcoming Chester-le-Street Amazons.

Image: Michael Ibbotson