Defensive mistakes proved costly for Bradford Bulldogs ice hockey team, who went down 9-2 to Flintshire Freeze in North Wales.

The hosts went ahead after seven minutes and, though Dean Boothroyd replied on the powerplay two minutes later, Flintshire scored three quick goals to lead 4-1 at the end of the first period.

The Bulldogs started the second period brightly and pulled one back when Gavin Penn and Josh Stockton combined to set up Aaron Dad, who sent a bullet into the top corner.

Freeze added two more to go in 6-2 up at the end of the second period.

Bulldogs nearly reduced the deficit when Daniel Berry fired a shot which beat the goalkeeper but came back off the post.

The visitors were caught napping at the back and made to pay as Flintshire scored three more to end easy winners.

The Bulldogs must now regroup for their trip to Telford on Saturday followed by a home game against Lancashire at Bradford Ice Arena on Sunday (5.15pm).

Admission is £5 for adults and under-16s are free with one paying adult.