AFTER their success in gaining promotion to the National Indoor League Division One, St Albans Ladies were back on outdoor astroturf in preparation for the crucial second half of the outdoor season.

With promotion to Division One still a priority at Clarence Park, Julian Halls' side tested their credentials against Division One leaders Wimbledon and equipped themselves well before eventually going down 3-0.

On a rainswept Clarence Park, Fleur Horner a pupil at Queenswood School came in for the injured Kerry Moore at sweeper while Zoe Waters replaced Gayle Ashby who was recovering from shin splints.

Wimbledon started the stronger of the two sides and caused the Tangerines problems with their quick link-up play but the St Albans defence coped well with with Horner belieing her years, outstanding in the heart of defence.

It was not all one way traffic though, as Saints threatened with Ele Powell and Sarah Frettwell working tirelessly up-front with spare man Harriet Preest giving the Wimbledon defence something to think about.

With Lucy Bliss directing play from midfield, Bliss and Preest both made inroads into the Wimbledon D, but it was the visitors who showed their greater experience to soak up the pressure and take the lead shortly before the break from a short corner.

Kelli Seagrave was brought on at the break to inject some flair into proceedings and although Harvey and Preest both benefited from her introduction, Saints never really threatened to score, despite forcing a number of short corners.

But Wimbledon showed their experience to claim two late goals, although Saints can be pleased with a showing that bodes well for next season should the Tangerines clinch promotion.