CANTERBURY gave new coach Mel Clewlow a winning start with a hard-earned 3-2 victory against Slazenger English Women's League Premier Division newcomers Poynton.

Canterbury took the lead from a short corner, as Tash Brennan flicked the ball across and Hayley Brown dived in to score.

Poynton were soon level courtesy of Cath Linaker's sharp finish but Brennan restored Canterbury's lead early in the second half, slipping the ball under the keeper from six yards.

Poynton hit back through Linaker before Jen Wlson drove the ball into the circle and Brennan teed up Sarah Kerly to fire home.

Maidstone went down to a 2-1 defeat against Firebrands in the National South Division.

Looking to build on last week's impressive win at Woking, Maidstone started strongly and took the lead when Kirsty Hotson set up Jody Goodwin for a well-worked goal.

Although Maidstone controlled the game, Firebrands won after converting two short corners and defending their advantage.

Sevenoaks were held to a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth in the National South Division.

After a quiet opening to the game, the visitors took the lead with 10 minutes remaining when a free-hit from newcomer Liz Key was converted by top goalscorer Anna Graham.

The three points seemed safe until Bournemouth capitalised on an opportunity in the dying minutes to bring the scores level and leave Oaks disappointed not to have taken maximum points.