That’s because the Saints kept out the dangerous Orange unit minus captain Kristy Ekert, and blocked a relentless barrage of CYMS offence.

CYMS were the team creating the greater share of chances across both halves of hockey at Bob Roach Field but in one of the Saints’ most impressive defensive displays this year they kept the ball out of their goal.

On paper the match looked certain to be a close contest.

Both clubs went into the game level in second place on the ladder – Pat’s with the equal best offensive record in the competition and CYMS with the best defensive one.

Saints’ Julie Hanman said the Bathurst women could be proud of keeping one of the competition’s biggest threats under control.

“Our goalkeeper Lilli-Rai Campbell was amazing and was our player’s player. You just couldn’t get anything past her,” she said.

“Our defence was like a brick wall. Lucy Weal and Kiralee Naylor were just amazing to watch. Our defence played out of their skins.

“Amy Glenn, as our captain today, through the middle controlled the ball so well and led from the front.”

With only four goals against CYMS’ name all season it was always going to be a challenge for Pat’s to find a breakthrough.

All of the hosts’ opportunities had to be created from the field as a stellar CYMS defence didn’t allow a single penalty corner.

“I think it was a fair result but if you put Kristy Ekert back into the mix then look out,” Hanman said.

“I think we were lacking a little bit up front today probably because we’re so used to having Kristy there controlling things for us.

“Once she comes back into the side I feel like it will be a different result.”

The result keeps things very interesting towards the top of the table.

Bathurst City’s win over Zig Zag has extended their lead to four while Pat’s and CYMS remain all square on 20.

They’ve been joined by Lithgow Panthers in a three-way tussle.