Spalding Orcas were unlucky to lose 14-10 to Northampton in their return match at the Castle Sports Complex.
Captain Ben Marsters said it was a disappointing result, but is confident his team can put this match behind them.
The Orcas attacked from the start, creating plenty of space but Northampton were first on the score sheet with a goal in the first minute.
Marsters quickly scored to level at 1-1.
After some scrappy play from the visitors, the Orcas took the lead through Jack Carpenter at the 5m mark.
Then a quick steal from a Northampton attack allowed Carpenter to break away before finding Jimmy Hook, who coolly slotted the ball home to increase the lead.
Northampton levelled the match again but James Teesdale’s goal in the last minute gave Spalding a 4-3 lead at the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter was end-to-end and three quick goals from Northampton after three minutes left the Orcas trailing 6-4.
Carpenter pulled one back with a superb shot from five metres out, only for Northampton to score again just before half-time and lead 7-5.
The third quarter was evenly matched. Carpenter added to his tally following a good move and perfect pass from Ed Martin.
Good play from Carpenter and Martin led to Marsters’ second goal of the match.
Oliver Clutson was unlucky not to add his name to the scoresheet with a shot tipped over the crossbar.
Carpenter scored again with two seconds of the quarter remaining.
Good goalkeeping from Harry Bumfrey helped keep the visitors pegged back to just three goals. Score 10-8.
Northampton took advantage early in the final quarter with two goals, but a good drive from Bumfrey, now in attack, found Marsters in the pit, scoring his third goal.
Carpenter soon scored again with a high shot in the top corner.
Two more quick goals from Northampton increased their lead, with Orcas unable to add to their tally.
Scorers: Carpenter (5), Marsters (3), Teesdale (1) and Hook (1).
