Pools Women’s long spell of inactivity proved the deciding factor as Pools lost 7-2 to Stockton Town in the NERWFL Northern Division.

In what was their first competitive league outing since November 9, Pools showed plenty of promise and resilience, particularly in the first half, but were unable to maintain their intensity as match sharpness told in the latter stages.

Boosted by the return of star striker Caitlin Bates and the introduction of new signing Caitlin Hanratty, Pools began the contest with purpose despite switching the derby fixture from Metcalfe Park to Brierton Community Sports Centre.

Stockton opened the scoring early on, capitalising on a momentary lapse, but Pools responded in impressive fashion.

Bates marked her return to the Club in style, finding the net to level proceedings before Poppy Todd fired the hosts ahead shortly afterwards, turning the game on its head with two goals in quick succession.

That strong response ensured Pools went into the break with a deserved 2-1 advantage, having matched their visitors in all areas and shown attacking intent alongside defensive organisation.

However, with two months without a league fixture behind them, Pools found it increasingly difficult to sustain that level of performance after the restart.

Stockton gradually gained control, using their greater match fitness to press higher up the pitch and force errors.

Despite a valiant effort and periods of determined defending, Pools were unable to stem the tide as Town struck repeatedly in the final 20 minutes to pull away and put a harsh gloss on the scoreline.

While the 7-2 defeat was disappointing, it did not fully reflect the competitiveness of the contest, particularly in the opening half.

The coaching staff and squad are fully aware of the areas that need addressing and will look to sharpen both fitness and game management on the training ground ahead of Sunday’s crucial trip to Redcar Town.

That fixture offers an immediate opportunity for response, with a victory enough to lift Pools out of the bottom two of the division.

Individually, Poppy Todd and Grace Raw were both outstanding throughout, combining work rate with quality on the ball, and deservedly shared the player of the match award.