CHESTER manager Steve Maddocks is still looking for his first win, but the score flattered the hosts.

In fact, City should have led in the first half when 15-year-old Katie Wilson was dragged down just outside the box on her debut and the resulting free-kick from Clare Reynolds, which went wide, was scant reward for the teenager's efforts.

East Durham continued to have difficulty breaking Chester City down, although goalkeeper Laura Edwards was brought into action in the 44th minute when she was forced to parry the ball over her crossbar following a speculative effort by the home side following a brace of corners from their right.

But in the 47th minute, all City's hard work was undone when East Duham's Sam Hill chased down an over-hit pass toward the left-hand corner flag. She was then allowed to travel with the ball across the front of the Chester penalty area and, following a simple lay-off, the ball was struck with such venom that Edwards remained rooted to the spot as the ball flew past her.

The hosts added to their lead when a cross from the left was swung in, and although it appeared Edwards had it covered, the wind again played its part, forcing the ball to dip violently just before reaching the now stranded keeper. Dropping to her knees, all Edwards could do was gather the ball with her finger tips, but when she was unable to hold on to the ball, Amy O'Brien was first to pounce and smash it into the unguarded net.

Chester City Ladies meet Leeds at Cheshire County Sports Club on Sunday (2pm).