Hockey: Canterbury missed out

Leaders Canterbury missed out on a good chance to open up a gap on. Second-placed Leicester in the Investec Women's Premier Division, but they suffered a 2-0 home defeat to Reading on Saturday.

Reading, who are also strong contenders to reach the end of season play-offs, hadn't read the script as they powered to a 1-0 lead inside the first minute courtesy of an Elizabeth Hunt strike. A second goal from Elspeth Cockburn seven minutes from time sealed the win for Reading who remain in third.

Bowdon Hightown closed the gap to fourth-placed Surbiton when they won 4-2 at Olton and West Warwickshire to draw level on points and pull closer to a spot in the end of season competition. Olton started brightly and found the net twice in the opening seven minutes to put Bowdon on the back foot.

But Tina Cullen came to Bowdon's rescue after half an hour, slotting in to lead the fight back. Further goals from Sally Walton and Claire Hartley put Bowdon 3-2 up.