There was an opening day victory for St Albans Hockey Club’s ladies side as they defeated Chelmsford 6-2.

After conceding an early goal, St Albans drew level as Holly Parsons found the net with a penalty after Sammie Archer had been fouled by the visitors’ goalkeeper.

The hosts continued to attack and they went ahead for the first time in the contest as Rosie MacPherson scored before Kerri Lendon netted a short corner.

St Albans went into the interval 3-1 ahead and killed the game off at the beginning of the second period with three further strikes in eight minutes.

Lucy Barrett, Claire Beattie and Loren Christian all scored to give the home side a commanding advantage.

Despite being behind, Chelmsford continued to attack and managed to pull back a consolation goal despite the best efforts of the hosts’ defence.

The victory means St Albans lead the fledgling National Women’s Conference East table and the side are hoping to improve on a third-place finish last season and launch a promotion challenge.