Penrith 1sts proved too strong for Keswick 2nds on the Cockermouth astroturf.

Keswick coach Ann Rush charged the ladies with stepping up their game, playing with belief and passion, and that is just what they did.

With Penrith third in the league, it was something of a David v Goliath affair but Keswick applied themselves well and only went under 4-2.

It was a dream start as within five minutes the Keswick defence had turned the Penrith push-back over, feeding the ball up the pitch to the waiting Grace Law.

She calmly slotted the goal past the surprised keeper.

With Penrith clearly rattled, Keswick kept their heads, working in the units practised at training.

The pressure paid off again when Law received the ball and found the back of the Penrith net.

Penrith re-doubled their efforts and the Keswick defence, ably led by Ellie Mason, with Ella Lister and Katy Heap in support braved wave after wave of assault.

Keeper Heather Thomas played superbly, deflecting all manner of shots but unfortunately for Keswick a Penrith corner eventually sneaked its way in.

Even so, it was a great first-half performance from Keswick who went into the break with a 2-1 lead.

The second half was just as thrilling as the first but, although Keswick played hard and with heart, Penrith’s experience and aggression slowly asserted itself.

It wasn’t long before another corner resulted in another Penrith goal to put them level.

Keswick refused to give up, so it was agonising for their supporters to watch another two goals hit the back board and get Penrith out of jail.

The player of the match award for Keswick went to Ellie Mason.

Keswick Men’s 2nds were also in action and won well 5-2 against Southport to stay third in the League.

Goals came from Ewan Stiles, Jack Law, Ronan Kingsbury, Matty Burridge and Jack Chippendale.

The Keswick team were rarely troubled by Southport and good build-up play should have led to several more goals.