Krista Ward pounced to grab a late winner for Orioles in this seven-goal thriller at Nationals.

Ward reacted quickest after Caroline Black's fierce shot was saved by the Orioles goalkeeper.

Swallows had taken an early lead on a penalty corner taken by Cathy Griffiths and Jenny Burrell made it 2-0 a few minutes later. But Orioles started a superb fightback with a fine goal from Georgina Adlam just before half-time.

After the break Orioles levelled the scores from a penalty corner and then took the lead for the first time when Adlam scored again. But Orioles' jubilation was short-lived as Cathy Griffiths grabbed her second goal to make it 3-3, before Ward sealed Swallows' win.

Swifts A 3 Canaries A 7 The captains of both teams scored hat-tricks in an open game laced with some fine passing.

Megan Spurling, of Swifts, grabbed all three of her side's goals, but her effort was matched by opposing skipper Rhonda Rawlins. Among the other scorers who helped to keep the Yellows 10 points clear at the top of the A League was Emma Garon, who netted the first.

Swallows B 2 Orioles B 0 Defensive uncertainties early in the game cost Orioles, as Swallows capitalised to grab two goals in the first 15 minutes.

Melanie Burns netted the opener before Annaka Rubidge popped up to score the second in a frantic goalmouth scramble.

Canaries B 2 Swifts B 0 Two first-half goals were enough for Canaries to secure victory in an even game against Swifts.

Swifts started strongly, forcing a string of penalty corners, but failed to find the net. Kerry Quigley showed them how when she put Canaries in front after 28 minutes after a scuffle with the goalkeeper. A few minutes later, Swifts paid for poor defence at a short corner and Sam Miller shot home the second goal.

Other results: Bluebirds A 2 Cardinals A 1; Bluebirds B 1 Cardinals B 1