Clifton Robinsons climbed into the play-off spots, boosting their hopes of glory in the Investec Women’s Hockey League Premier Division with a 3-0 win over Beeston on Saturday.
Previously sixth, they climbed above their rivals thanks to three early goals. Nicola Moss got them off the mark with a second minute field goal, and Aileen Davis doubled their lead from a penalty corner five minutes later.
Finally, Holly Savage scored what would turn out to be the last goal of the game from a penalty corner in the 18th minute.
Elsewhere Surbiton returned to the top of the table with a 2-0 win over previous leaders Holcombe. Autumn Brown scored the host’s opening goal after 26 minutes, while Jenna Woolven made it two-nil with a 58th minute strike.
East Grinstead stepped up to third with a 2-0 win over Buckingham, who dropped out of the top four.
Sophie Bray’s 21st minute goal and Rosario Villagra’s 50th minute strike gave East Grinstead the points.
At the other end of the table Slough and the university of Birmingham battled out a 2-2 draw. After Mel Ball had given hosts Slough a second minute lead, Aisling Madden scored for the University of Birmingham.
Jo Turnbull put the visitors ahead with a penalty stroke on 26 minutes, only for Kitty Baccanello to level for Slough on 62 minutes.
In the top flight’s other clash Bowdon Hightown were 2-1 winners at Canterbury with Megan Batchelor and Aine Curran scoring their goals, while Eugenia Bianchi scored for Canterbury.