SALISBURY Ladies' firsts closed the gap on rivals Swindon with a gritty 2-1 win at Cheltenham.

The victory see them cement third place in West Clubs Women's Hockey League Premier Division 2A and within four points of second-placed Swindon, who dropped two points away at Hereford.

Salisbury had the better of possession early on and made it count with a goal, Lisa Lovatt firing home Kerry Jackson's cross.

The equaliser came towards the end of the first half with the visitors' defence being caught out with a quick turn of pace from the Cheltenham forwards.

The start of the second half saw both sides trying to find a way through but were scuppered by each set of defenders.

However, Salisbury had the last say when Kirsten Lamotte scored the deciding goal following an excellent drive from Ellen Trott along the back line.

Salisbury host Marlborough on Saturday.