PWLLHELI came up against a strong Newtown side as they succumbed to 7-0 away defeat at Maldwyn Leisure Centre in the North Wales Women’s Hockey League division one.

The Powys hosts never looked back after breaking the deadlock on 18 minutes through Sian Griffiths, and further goals from Heidi Langford and Jacqui Loxam ensured a comfortable half-time margin.

It was a similar story after the interval, with Griffiths completing her brace by scoring from a penalty corner, and Karen Lewis got in on the act with a double.

Loxam settled a one-sided contest with a superb individual goal after bursting through from the halfway line to score.

The result ensures that Newtown would travel to face Dysynni with confidence in their next league game on 24 February, whilst Pwllheli will host Colwyn Bay.

Second-placed Dysynni meanwhile maintained their winning ways with a convincing 5-1 triumph over Welshpool, and the Tywyn side face league leaders Ardudwy in upbeat mood this weekend.

Sarah Williams netted Pool’s consolation, but Dysynni ladies’ dominance was never in doubt, with doubles from Jo Redman and Lora Constable and a single from Holly Edwards sealing their win.

Ardudwy showed no sign of slipping up at the top of the table as they roared to a 9-0 win away against Colwyn Bay. Clare Barwood, Cari Davies and Loz Jeffrey all scored two goals, with Jenna Gallagher, Siwan Jones and Beth Kenny also scoring as Ardudwy maintained their 100 per cent league record in division one.

Meanwhile Llanfair Caereinion’s scheduled clash at home to Ruthin was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. Llanfair face a tough test next time out against Ardudwy on 24 February, whilst Ruthin return to league action on the same date when they travel to take on Welshpool.