Pudsey Firsts............2 Otliensians................4

IN this top-of-the-table clash, Otliensians knew there was still a lot to play for. Pudsey started the stronger team in the first 15 minutes and were unfortunate not to be awarded a penalty flick. Otliensians' defence settled into their task and kept Pudsey out with some good man to man marking. Otliensians midfield worked hard and gained momentum.

This resulted in an attack down the left being hit across for Nicky Lister to hit home at the far post. This lifted Otliensians, who mounted another attacking move down the middle. Helen Parnaby slotted Otliensians second goal in from a rebound off the Pudsey goalkeeper. With only a few minutes to go Otley's efforts were rewarded with a short corner. This was hammered in by Sue Mott, only for the 'keeper to save, but Lister was there for the rebound. This gave 'Ensians an unexpected 3-0 lead at half-time.

The second-half started much the same as the first with Otliensians defending. Pudsey's pressure paid off with two goals in quick succession to leave the last 15 minutes very tight. 'Ensians settled themselves again and their hockey flowed. Work down both wings by the Lister sisters gave Otliensians defence a breather.

In the dying minutes a move by Otliensians drew the Pudsey 'keeper out of her goal. The loose ball was pounced on to restore their two goal lead. Player-of-the-Match points went to Maggie Joce and Nicky Lister. This was an excellent victory for Otliensians who now have promotion to Yorkshire League Two.

l Otliensians entertain Leeds Owls in their last league game of the season.

OTLIENSIANS lls......1 STUDLEY ROYAL......3

Another defeat for the second team means that they are clinging to Division Four status by the skin of their teeth. It all rests on the final game on Saturday and depends on how their rivals perform. Otliensians took the lead in this game with a fine opportunist goal from Claire Brook. The euphoria was short-lived as the Ripon side hit back to level before the break and went on to win in the second-half.

Only some fine defensive work by match point winners Jane Girt and Becky Caisley prevented the scoreline from being higher. Otliensians never looked like scoring again despite the vocal encouragement of captain Josie Connell.

l On Saturday Otliensians Seconds face another away fixture, this time at Doncaster for their last league match of the season. (Meet in Otley at 8.45 am.)