Forest leapfrog Springfields to take over at top of the table

Springfields had some early chances, which were neatly dealt with by keeper Laura Kendal.

Forest began to find their feet, pushing on as a unit, and discipline from the forward line paid off when the Springs defence faltered, letting in Karen Nuttall to slot in the first goal.

Soon after, a lifted shot by Deb Bythell hit the crossbar.

Then just before the break, a penalty corner shot from Springfields hit defender Jan Cormack’s foot on the line leading to a penalty flick conversion.

The second half saw Forest’s confidence grow, with strong attacking play down both wings. A rebound off the keeper saw Charlotte O’Brien follow up in style with a trademark strike.

Further pressure enabled Forest to pass the ball around in the opposing circle, with Cathy Waters finally smashing the ball in at close range to ensure a 3-1 win.

Forest’s third team suffered a third-successive defeat at Windermere.

From the off Forest had to soak up repeat pressure from Windermere, but the defence held well with Debbie Lancaster making a string of impressive saves.

Forest came into their own 20 minutes in and for the last 15 minutes of the first half they had the upper hand, but the match remained goal-less at half time.

In the second half, Forest forced a number of penalty corners, but unfortunately couldn’t capitalise, and Windermere managed to break down Forest’s defence and scored a well-struck goal, which proved the winner.