RUTHIN Hockey Club's young squad, support by a few veterans, made the perfect start to the year beating Eirias 2nds 3-1 at home.

Eirias started strong with a number of attacking opportunities, however some solid defending lead by Paula Duffy in the middle - supported by youngsters Katie Hancock and Rebecca Wynne and brilliant saves from player of the match Harriet Jones - meant that Eirias were unable to take advantage.

Numerous of probing attacks down the left wing eventually culminated in a nice interchange of passes between youngster Anna Roberts and the experienced Linda Harrison.

A pass into the D found Llio Thomas, who struck the ball sweetly into the net to put Ruthin into the lead.

Ruthin’s defensive press worked well in the first half. Particularly Mali Thomas made it difficult for Eirias to clear their defensive half due to her bravely closing down the ball, enabling midfielders Emily Retalick and Eleri Jones to intercept.

Ruthin dominance and pressure was rewarded when Eleri Jones was the first to react to the rebounded ball to score the next goal.

Eirias upped their game in the second half and put more pressure on Ruthin.

Despite keeper Harriet Jones making numerous great saves, Eirias were eventually able to pull a goal back.

Ruthin still had a number of attacking opportunities, the most important one being when Llio Jones sent the ball down the left wing to junior Brooke Day.

She skilfully negotiated the defence and then with a perfectly timed and weighted pass, played the ball right for Emily Retalick to score.

Llio Jones' and Tara Mason's experience in defence and Eva Evans' excellent tracking back meant that Ruthin were able to deny the visitors any further goals.

Swyn Ifans made her debut for the first team, showing an excellent work ethic and commitment up front.

The player of the match voted for by Eirias went to Harriet Jones and the team's player of the match was awarded to Anna Roberts.

Captain Linda would like to thank the whole squad for their impressive commitment and work rate.

Special thanks to Gwyneth Day for her coaching, Chris Harness for umpiring and all the supporters.