BOLTON HC Ladies Second XI lost to an older and more powerful UMIST side 3-2.

Having fallen behind early, the efforts of Emma Smith and Lauren Hickman dragged Bolton back into the game, setting up Holly Dean's lovely equaliser.

UMIST experience again drew them away, establishing a 3-1 lead, before once again Smith and Sam Mills began to turn the tide.

With renewed efforts, Bolton's youngsters battled back. Helen Clayworth capped a great performance by winning the penalty corner, from which Ashton Duerden scored, but time denied Bolton further chances.

Bolton came out of the game with great credit and a defeat provided more of a lesson for the future than previous easy victories.