Epworth Ladies Hockey Club were the victim of a scoreline not reflecting their spirited performance as Batley Firsts ran out 6-0 winners.
The Isle side were intent on moving on from their opening day defeat to Thirsk Seconds last week as the prepared to face Yorkshire Four high-fliers Batley.
Epworth startly brightly against their Leeds counterparts, dominating the midfield. But when Batley got the ball - there simply was no stopping them as the hosts netted in the opening five minutes.
Although Epworth boasted strong possession they could not quite find their clinical edge as Batley’s defence proved too strong.
Batley’s attacking force then went on to fire home two more goals before half time.
Despite being 3-0 down, Epworth were determined to get something from the game and continued to move the ball well after the restart with some excellent runs down the wings from Sarah Parkin, Alex Robinson and Helen Lightburn.
But Batley broke to devastating effect as they proved deadly in front of goal, hitting the target at each attempt.
Sarah Peach was a force to be reckoned with in the Epworth goal, but was helpless in keeping the hosts out completely.
Esther Latham and Robinson made crucial tackles in the middle to get the ball going forward as they won vital free hits just outside the D. But Epworth lacked conviction in a frustrating day in front of goal.
Meanwhile, Batley notched a further three goals to finish as 6-0 winners.
Players’ Player went to Latham with Parkin picking up the Umpire’s Player.
Epworth have a chance to claim their first win of the season as they prepare to host Huddersfiled Kirklees Firsts on Saturday, 2pm, at Thorne’s Trinity Academy base.
The ladies are also in cup action on Sunday against Division Three side Horsforth Firsts at 11am, Brumby Wood Sports Ground in Scunthorpe.