as women's hockey continued at Nationals over the weekend.

A second half goal from Jobs Verkaaik was enough for Cardinals A to secure the points against Police Orioles as they ran out 1-0 winners. But it was a game that produced few chances.

Mary-Ellen Jackson of Orioles provided a midfield threat but the final pass was always easily dealt with by Cardinals' defenders Kris Soares and Eva Dillas.

Cardinals took control in the second half and might have gone ahead when Verkaaik missed an easy chance in front of goal. But she made up for that mistake when a fast build-up from deep in the Cardinals' half saw Tracy McPhee play the ball to Veraaik whose hard shot beat 'keeper Fiona Doe.

Saturday's A game saw Canaries seemingly headed for a comfortable win over Longtails after taking a 2-0 lead, but a spirited fightback meant the points were shared.

Canaries controlled the first half with effective passing and Jacqui White opened the scoring from a short corner after 21 minutes. White, Rhonda Rawlins and Michelle Ming continued to dominate midfield and Canaries went further ahead three minutes into the second half through Rawlins.

But as Canaries sat back, Longtails continued to persevere and were rewarded when first Joanne Wilson scored with a reverse stick shot from the top of a crowded circle and then Donna Rawlins spun past a surprised Tammi Ray to net a last gasp equaliser.

B team action saw Canaries take over at the top with a 1-0 win over Bluebirds on Saturday, the lone goal coming from Emma Garron. Cardinals had opened Saturday's play with a 2-0 victory over Orioles, both goals coming from Laura Bardgett.

Sunday's B game saw Police Orioles capture their first win of the season over Swifts. Jayne Ward struck for Orioles after 23 minutes, and Jeannie Farnell put the game out of reach with a well struck second goal.