Hitchin Hearts got off to a winning start in the Herts and Beds County Women s League. They whacked seven goals past a stunned Sherrardswood Ladies side in a resounding 7-2 victory. Hearts went in at half time three goals ahead through Laura Ravenscroft (

Hitchin Hearts got off to a winning start in the Herts and Beds County Women's League.

They whacked seven goals past a stunned Sherrardswood Ladies side in a resounding 7-2 victory.

Hearts went in at half time three goals ahead through Laura Ravenscroft (two) and Rebecca Saunders.

Although the hosts pulled one back in the second half, Saunders and Ravenscroft completed their hat-tricks and Annelle Olsson put one away for good measure.

The management team of Phil Sayer and John Hawkins are still looking for players to strengthen their squad, especially a keeper.

Training is on Wednesday evenings.

Call Lol on 07714 335514 or visit www.hitchinheartslfc.co.uk to find out more.

A confident Hearts team will face old adversaries Arlesey Town Ladies this Sunday (10.30am ko).

Stevenage Boro Ladies' first game of the season saw them win by a single strike against league rivals Kettering.

They played three close games last season and both clubs are aiming for promotion this term.

Boro were missing a few key players, most notably new captain Janet Mansell.

Ana Ruiz-Jerez and Rachel Edlin came close to opening the scoring in the first half.

Boro were unlucky not to be ahead by the break and then had to play against the wind for the second 45 minutes.

The deadlock was finally broken when a flag went up for offside but the referee insisted play on, allowing Spanish striker Ruiz-Jerez to run through on goal and coolly finish in the top left corner.

Kettering's frustration began to grow and their centre-back was red carded for violent conduct.

Boro took all three points with central defender Dominique Godbeer named player of the game by Kettering.

Other good performers were Katie Light, playing out of position in the centre of midfield, and new goalkeeper Sarah Allcock-Green.

There was disappointment for Arlesey Town Ladies' two teams on the opening day.

The first team were beaten 4-1 at home by Cambridge Rangers after conceding goals at the start and end of the first half.

Two down at the break, they conceded another before grabbing a consolation.

Marie Clarke was brought down by the keeper and Sarah Tayler scored from the penalty spot.

A fourth for the visitors late on gave the scoreline a flattering look.

The seconds went down 2-0 at Beds and District Reds in their first outing in the Herts and Beds County League.

If you are interested in playing ladies football, please call Maria Hilling on 07981 432798.