The ever-improving standard in the North women's game was again in evidence on a glorious Easter Sunday afternoon as Badenoch were pushed hard before emerging 2-1 winners to extend their 100% record since forming last season.

The first half ended goalless, with Badenoch's best efforts repelled by a solid Strathglass defence in which Lisa Larkin was outstanding on her shinty-playing debut.

In goal, former international captain Gillian Currie, making a welcome return to the game, mopped up efficiently.

The best shot of the half came from Julie McWhirter in the 25th minute but Currie made a good stop to keep out her low 25 yard drive out.

Strath threatened with a number of lively breaks and, just before half-time, Lorna Brindle in the home goal had to be quick off her line to clear the danger.

The visitors' resistance finally ended a minute into the second half when Elizabeth McGregor found the net with a rasping low drive which flew in at the foot of a post.

Far from being dispirited, Strathglass battled on and were rewarded 10 minutes into the second period when Emma MacGillivray turned a Ciorstan Hughes corner goalwards and in the ensuing scramble Annemarie Murray was credited with the final touch.

Badenoch rang the changes in a bid to preserve their winning run and player of the year Kirsty Deans restored their lead with a well-struck shot 12 minutes from time.

Again Strath responded well, but time ran out and they were left to reflect on a much-improved display which should encourage them for the season ahead.

Badenoch, meanwhile, remain the team to beat at this level and set the standard which their opponents need to match.

Their next match is this Sunday away to Aberdeen in Division 2.

Badenoch: L. Brindle, F. Mackintosh, J. Caird, S. Caird, E. McNiven, J. Nicol, K. Deans, I. Knox, E. McGregor, J. McGregor, J. McWhirter, K. Hamilton and L. Deans Fixtures, Sunday, National Division One: Glengarry v Glasgow Mid-Argyll; Tir Conaill Harps v Forth.

South Central Division Two: Tir Conaill Harps v Cowal & Bute.

South West Division Two: Dunadd v Kintyre. North Division Two: Aberdeen University v Badenoch & Strathspey; Glengarry v Strathglass.

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