Unbeaten Badenoch & Strathspey were given their closest examination so far by Strathglass in a competitive North Division Two clash at The Dell, Kingussie.

The ever-improving standard in the north women’s game was again in evidence on a glorious Easter Sunday afternoon as Badenoch were pushed hard before emerging 2-1 winners to extend their 100 per cent record since forming last season.

The first half ended goalless, with Badenoch’s best efforts repelled by a solid Strathglass defence in which Lisa Larkin was outstanding on her shinty-playing debut. In goal Gillian Currie, making a welcome return to the game, mopped up efficiently.

Strath threatened on a number of lively breaks, but their resistance finally ended a minute into the second half when Elizabeth McGregor found the net with a rasping low drive which flew in at the foot of a post.

Far from being dispirited, Strathglass battled on and were rewarded 10 minutes into the second period when Emma MacGillivray turned a Ciorstan Hughes corner goalwards and in the ensuing scramble Annemarie Murray was credited with the final touch.

Badenoch rang the changes in a bid to preserve their winning run and player of the year Kirsty Deans restored their lead with a well-struck shot 12 minutes from the end.

Again Strath responded well but time ran out and they were left to reflect on a much-improved display which should encourage them for the season ahead.

Badenoch, meanwhile, remain the team to beat at this level and set the standard which their opponents need to match.