DESPITE defeat in their first game back, Knutsford Hockey Club’s women’s team were glad to get back on the pitch on Saturday.

They went down 2-1 to Macclesfield in the Cheshire Women’s Division Two friendly league after a hard-fought battle in searing heat.

Hannah Quinn put in a strong display after stepping into midfield while the defence was commanded by Steph Roberts.

Macclesfield were able to go two goals up in the first quarter, though, after two short corner routines got the better of Knutsford keeper Lucy White.

Some good saves from White and strong tackling from Sarah Evans and Susie Hough kept Knutsford in the game in the second quarter before they got themselves back into the game.

After winning a short corner, Suzi Weir’s dipping strike found the net to reduce the deficit.

But despite some heavy Knutsford pressure in the final two quarters, Macclesfield held on to secure the victory.