Newcastle Emlyn ladies let a 2-0 half-time lead slip for the second week running in the South Wales Women's Hockey League division one as they succumbed to a 3-2 defeat away at Penarth Thirds.

It was the third time the two sides had met this season, after the corresponding league fixture and a meeting in the first round of the cup had resulted in one win each between the two sides.

The sun was shining at Stanwell School, and in almost perfect playing conditions the visitors started strongly, with the midfield line regaining possession of the ball quickly through Mel Williams, Gwawr Evans and Heledd-Mai Lloyd.

When the ball was passed out to winger Sioned Davies, she utilized her speed well, moving around the defender and finding herself in the attacking circle with mother Enfys Davies, who won a penalty corner.

Under the orders of coach Sarah Braizier, Emlyn knew the drill to go for a straight strike from Williams - which put Emlyn 1-0 up.

They doubled their lead when some neat play between Sara Patterson and Enfys Davies along the central channel, saw the ball moved around a few defenders and the goalkeeper, with Davies firing home to make it 2-0 at half-time.

Emlyn had to work hard in the second half to maintain this lead as Penarth came out strongly to test defenders Ellie Lloyd, Sioned Davies, Caryl-Haf Lloyd, Lowri Hubbard and Elen Hill, and goalkeeper Angharad Jenkins.

Penarth, with a few talented youngsters, pulled a goal back - but Emlyn continued to attack in numbers thanks to drives from Rosie Hughes and Emma Braizier, again allowing wingers Sioned and Patterson to reach the attacking circle.

With the play going from one end of the pitch to another, it was Penarth, however, who managed to make it 2-2 with 10 minutes to go - and despite Emlyn's best efforts, the hosts added a third goal to seal a dramatic victory.

Player of the match was awarded to Emlyn's Sioned Fflur Davies on the wing for her outstanding resilience and attacking skills.

Newcastle Emlyn ladies currently sit fourth in the league table behind Milford Haven, Bridgend and Whitchurch Saints Thirds.

If they want to finish in the top three, they will have to win their last two matches against Radnor and Bridgend, in which they have the home advantage.

All support will be greatly appreciated on Saturday, 25 March when they take on Radnor in Crymych (1.30pm).