HAMPSHIRE North had a disappointing start to the English Counties League season, with only the Open second squad winning at South Staffordshire.
South Staffs Open 53, Hants North Open 43. After a slow start, Hampshire North steadily improved against the tenacious Staffordshire defence. In the third quarter, Hampshire dominated in all areas of the court, winning this section by 18 goals to 11. Although reducing the first-half deficit, Hampshire were unable to close the gap. Substitutes Rachel Mann and Sarah Jones gave sterling performances for Hampshire.
Hampshire North: Carol Dudley, Kristy Taylor, Jayne Wilson, Judith Mann, Adele McElhinney, Rachel Mann, Lyndsey Meldrum (Tongham), Nikki Gray, Sophie Christy, Sarah Jones (Fleming Park).
South Staffs Open II 29, Hants North Open II 32. With a new line-up, Hampshire North established an early lead, and in the second quarter they capitalised on fast breaks and good all-round defence. South Staffordshire fought back gamely, but an excellent fourth quarter, with superb performances from Wendy Wates and Charlotte Strugnell, ensured victory for Hampshire.
Hampshire North: Charlotte Strugnell, Carol Dudley, Wendy Wates (Tongham), Vanessa Bertrand (Tadley), Nikki Gray, Kathryn Cook (Fleming Park), Wendy Galione (Bugs), Ali Jenkins (Guildford City).
South Staffs U/18 42, Hants North U/18 41. This match developed into a close affair, with little to separate the sides. Considering this was only their second outing, the Hampshire team performed well during the pressurised final quarter, with Staffs just forging ahead in a goal-for-goal encounter.
Hampshire North: Becky Wilson, Charlie Blogg, Sam Newton, Steph Kirkwood (Bordon), Lucy Powell, Jenny Trueman (Ants), Gemma Hillyard, Sarah King (Tadley).
South Staffs U/16 34, Hants North U/16 17. Hampshire went into their first game with a positive attitude, but failed to win enough of the ball and Staffordshire built an early lead. Hants battled on with some fine defensive work from Charlotte Towerton, while Emma Thurston connected well with her shooters.
However, the early lead proved decisive for South Staffs who took a valuable five points.
Hampshire North: Rosie Olliffe, Emma Thurston, Jacqui Lilley, Amy Bye (Bugs), Pippa Hanks, Katelin Fuller, Amy Turkington, Natalie Stacey (Rushmoor), Claire Robertson (Storm), Charlotte Towerton (John Hanson).