Hearts play their part

HITCHIN Hearts could have played a massive role in the destiny of the league title on Sunday.

Their 2-1 win at Hoddesdon Owls dented the home side's title hopes and instead allowed cup final opponents Sharnbrook to take their challenge into the final week of the season.

Hearts got off to a blistering start with fit-again Becky Saunders scoring twice. Her first goal was direct from a 30-yard free-kick and the second was an exquisite lob.

Owls pulled one back but the Hitchin girls ran their socks off to ensure that they did not concede again.

Keeper Mel Sayer made two terrific saves, Sam Porter made a big difference at the back, and Ollie Olsson was named player of the match for an exceptional performance.

Hearts and Sharnbrook will meet in the league cup final at Arlesey Town's Raj Villa Stadium on Sunday, May 13 (6.30pm ko).

Arlesey Town Ladies won 2-1 at Kettering Town to secure at least a fifth placed position which matches their best ever ranking.

They went ahead in the seventh minute as Sarah Tayler's corner was well met by Libby Pennett.

The Kettering keeper pulled off some outstanding stops during the rest of the half.

The second half started well for Arlesey when a great through ball was chased down by Kayleigh Saunders which caused the keeper to handle outside her area.

Tayler made no mistake in converting the resulting opportunity.

With just over 10 minutes to go, Kettering scored straight from a free-kick but it was to prove too little, too late as Arlesey headed home with the points.

Their second team drew against Sandy 1-1.

Arlesey drew first blood early on through Emily Whiting before Sandy equalised.

They were disappointed when Michelle Whitehead scored a 'winner' towards the end of the game. The ref awarded the goal but was over-ruled by the assistant for offside.