WALTHAM FOREST ladies hockey team sent out a clear statement of intent during their first East Division One South game of the season, defeating fellow newcomers Brentwood 2-1 after a closely-fought contest.

Forest earned promotion last year, and any doubts about whether they could cut it at a higher level were brushed aside during an impressive performance.

The Walthamstow-based side claimed the lead in the 20th minute from a well-worked penalty corner.

The team’s new routine paid immediate dividends, with Kathryn Tucker sweeping home for a 1-0 advantage.

Brentwood equalised soon after as a shot found its way between the legs of keeper Morag Campbell.

But Forest were not to be denied, and they went into half-time with their noses in front.

Another penalty corner yielded another goal for the local side. Philippa Leguen de Lacroix slotted in a rebound with a reverse stick effort, fooling both keeper and defence.

The second half was a stalemate, although Leguen de Lacroix hit a post and Gill Frazer’s mazy solo run created the chance for Emma Livingstone-Jones to score, although it was disallowed for an infringement.

The defence held firm at the other end as Forest secured the points.

This weekend Forest look forward to hosting Folkestone at Douglas Eyre.