Keighley LADIES slipped to a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Battyeford Ladies at Marley on Sunday.

The Keighley side had to start with 10 players after Maria McArdle was delayed in traffic, but once she arrived the striker was straight into the thick of the action. she came close to scoring in the 10th minute.

Mel McCumiskey, playing striker for the first time also had a superb game, but could not break the deadlock.

After 30 minutes of the opening period McArdle had to come off with a knee injury and with only one substitute on the bench the team had to continue with 10 players as the coaching staff tried to get her fit to return. She played the last five minutes of the half, but could not continue and at half time was replaced by Wendy Button.

A point-blank save by keeper Lorna Bennett kept the scoresheet blank but after 74 minutes Jo Midgley scored for the visitors.

Keighley pushed up for an equaliser but were caught on the break for Battyeford's second.

The Keighley side continued to push for a consolation goal, but were beaten by the whistle.

n On Sunday Keighley are at home to Knaresborough while Premier Division side Silsden Ladies travel to York City in the third round of the Knockout Cup.