A NEW-look Kendal side made a pleasing start to the new season by holding experienced Kirkby Stephen to a 1-1 draw in Division 1 of the Netherwood League at Queen Katherine School on Sunday.

Despite never having played together before, Kendal gelled well and kept possession in the Kirkby half for long spells and were frustrated at failing to get the scoresheet.

Instead, Kirkby struck a minute before half time through a good solo goal by the accomplished Debbie Birkbeck, who came on as a replacement and dribbled her way through from the halfway line.

Kendal did not lose heart, however, and they created several good chances before Jo Martin found the net with a clean strike when a new, well-practised short-corner routine worked toi perfection.

Kirkby's direct, attacking style always made them dangerous but Kendal continued to enjoy an even share of the exchanges.

Kendal keeper Julie Ashworth saved Birkbeck's penalty flick afterwards to keep the scores level and they finished well happy with the point.

Martin took the player-point for Kendal, while Sarah Ellwood and Kirsty Ormerod did well on their debuts and Sarah Dent led by example as skipper.

Kendal are away to Barrow next in a rearranged league match on Sunday, October 22.