The Dubbo Ravens women’s hockey side put up a tough battle against competition leaders Ex-Services at the weekend, but were unlucky not to come away with the win, going down 4-0.

With six players out, the Ravens had to pull four inexperienced players to field a side.

Coach Jean Weekes was more than impressed with her team’s performance and the defence shown by every player.

“Ex-Services beat us 7-1 last time we played them so it was an improvement for us,” Weekes said.

“Orange didn’t score until the 21st minute of the match and that is a credit to our defence,” she said.

Orange led 2-0 at the break, but strong defence again by the Ravens in the second half prevented them from running up a large score.

“New players Sophie Regan and Lisa

Burton played exceptionally well,” Weekes said.

“Orange would have had 90 per cent of the ball in the second half but our strong defence only saw them get two goals.”

All four of the goals Ex-Services scored came from corners, which Weekes said reflected the defensive skill of her side.

The Ravens have a bye this weekend due to the Veterans Championships in Armidale, but will face Kinross CYMS the following week.

“Kinross beat us 9-0 in the first round,” Weekes said.

“But at home we should do better and all going well at the veterans, we should have our full strength side back.”