Canterbury were edged out 7-5 by leaders Beeston in a thrilling top-of-the-table clash in National Premier Division at Polo Farm on Sunday.

Liam Foster put the second-placed city club ahead after just three minutes but the lead lasted less than 60 seconds as Carl Smith drew the leaders level.

Isaac OConnor restored Canterburys advantage on 10 minutes but Sam Dixon made it 2-2 just four minutes later from a penalty corner.

Joe Sharp and Craig Boyne then struck two goals in three minutes around the half hour to put Beeston 4-2 up but the rollercoaster half continued with Devohn Teixeria pulling one back two minutes before the break and a penalty corner strike from Michael Farrer (pictured) on the stroke of half-time saw the teams turn around level.

However, after the interval it was mainly one-way traffic with Smith grabbing his second seven minutes after the restart from a penalty corner and Dixon did likewise 10 minutes later to make it 6-4.

Beeston keeper Ashley Watson saved a penalty stroke to keep Canterbury out, while Boyne completed his double seven minutes from time to secure the win but there was still time for Farrer to grab a consolation from another penalty corner.

It was the second time the leaders have scored seven against Canterbury this season and left them nine points clear of the city club at the top of the table, with third-placed Cannock a further four points back.