BOLTON Ladies firsts are virtually guaranteed promotion to the North Premier League after beating Driffield 3-1.

Jenny Cocker got the ladies off to a good start after two minutes running through the defence to win a penalty corner. Cocker then converted the corner after a shot from Vicky Hirst was saved by the keeper, and Vicky Warburton jabbed the ball off a defender's stick into Cocker's path.

Driffield were soon on equal terms after a defensive error and just before half-time ex-England U21 goalkeeper Jess Bowman was called into action after Driffield were awarded a penalty flick when the ball struck Louise Ball on the foot in front of goal. Bowman remained cool and continued her excellent form with a dazzling save.

Charlotte Harrison and Ashton Duerden worked tirelessly in midfield and produced a number of opportunities for the forwards, eventually setting Cocker off on another great run, only to be cut down as she was about to take a shot. Sue Buckley effortlessly slotted home the flick to restore the lead.

Duerden made it 3-1 after another well-worked penalty corner.

Bolton Ladies 2nds lost 4-3 to Urmston and miss out on promotion.