WORCESTER Ladies made the long trek to Thirsk at the weekend, for what should have been a straight-forward match, but endured a frustrating afternoon, which ended in the team's drawing 0-0.

Worcester were without a number of key individuals, with the pace and clinical finishing of Amber Penrith missing.

Influential vice-captain Sophie Bennett and skipper Mellissa Berry were away on international duty.

Both Worcester and Thirsk failed to capitalise on opportunities to win the game.

Worcester came close to crossing the line on numerous occasions throughout, only to be denied from some excellent defensive work from the hosts.

Thirsk had three penalty opportunities, two of which were in front of the posts, but luck must have been on the Worcester side as one sailed wide of the upright and the second saviour for Worcester proved to be the post itself. Their frustrations became apparent late in the second half when, after some scrappy play, tempers flared on both sides as the teams tried to resolve the stalemate.

But there was to be no breakthrough and both teams at least will be happy that they salvaged a point a piece.

Worcester will be back with a full-strength squad as they face a far tougher prospect this Sunday against Richmond at Sixways.