Surbiton Ladies completed their preparation for the second half of the England Hockey League season with a 3-1 friendly defeat at Conference West leaders, Buckingham, on Sunday.

Jessica Brooker gave Surbiton a third minute lead, finishing off a penetrating attack by Helen Grant and Sian Craze. Lorraine Campbell equalised for the hosts in the 25th minute to leave the scores level at half time.

Two quick goals midway through the second half were enough to give Buckingham the win. First, Beth Stainsby converted the home side’s third penalty corner in the 56th minute, then a minute later, Surbiton’s defence were unable to clear the ball, Anita Bazini scoring Buckingham’s third goal.

Surbiton fielded some young players who are registered to play in the EHL, but have yet to make an appearance in the league this season, giving them useful experience.

Surbiton visit second placed Chelmsford on Saturday (push back 12 noon); and with third placed Ipswich hosting fourth placed Sevenoaks, any of the top three teams could be top at the end of the day.

Earlier in the season, Emma Rowland-Jones and Brooker gave Surbiton a 2-0 lead, only for Chelmsford to fight back for a 2-2 draw. Then on Sunday, Surbiton play their rearranged match at home to Harleston Magpies (push back 12 noon), where they won 2-0 back in September, Grant, and Vicky Bryant, the scorers. Chelmsford travel to Old Loughtonians; Ipswich visit Cambridge City; and Sevenoaks welcome St. Albans.