Sydenham Sapphires 25, Claremont 43

SAPPHIRES started slowly against Claremont from Galmington NC, finishing the first quarter 10-3 down.

The team knuckled down with the half time score 19-9 to Claremont which soon became 28-18 into the final quarter.

Claremont increased their pace during the final quarter and, despite great defending from Rachel Coles and Debbie Chapman, Sapphires were unable to close the gap.

Claremont and Kelly Radford were named players of the match.

Ambers 21, Newbarn 33

AMBERS had a slow first quarter, resulting in Newbarn taking the lead with a score of 9-4.

A better second quarter with more interceptions, and spaces being opened up by Megan Buller (GD) and Alex Williams (WD) helped to pull the score back up to 15-12 to Newbarn at half time.

Great interceptions from Leanne Wegg (C) and Alex Williams (WD) in the third quarter put pressure on Newbarns but despite Lucie Mcdowell scoring a couple of last minute goals they lost by 12 points.

Players of the match were Katie Dennison and Leanne Wegg.

Gems 24, Hovelands 43

GEMS suffered a defeat in their first match of the season despite the first quarter pretty even ending 11-8 to Hovelands.

Nic Hale and Justine Pearn worked well in attack but as half time approached Hovelands extended their lead 23-13. Entering the third quarter, Gems made changes to try and close the gap but Hovelands were too strong.

Players of the match were Danni Keirle and Sue Bushnell

Emeralds 39, Queensway 46

EMERALDS started well with good shooting from Roxy McDowell and Adele Ranford and strong support from Mikki Hole and Michelle Martin kept Rubies in touch just three goals behind as they went into the second quarter.

Defensive players Rachael Coles and Emily Hoare made several well-timed interceptions and linked with Kerry Clark at WD to bring the ball into the attacking end as Rubies pulled back to be level 19 all at half-time. Queensway pulled away during the third quarter and even though Rubies did not give up they lost by seven.

Emily Hoare at GK was voted player of the match.

Rubies 34, Parkfield 51

RUBIES started well against Parkfield, with great flow through the centre court, and interceptions from defenders Debbie Chapman and Nic Hale.

Paige Pople was playing an excellent game in her promotion to the third team, working well with Roxy McDowell and Laura Coombes. The score at half time was 26-15 to Parkfield.

An injury to Sammie Brown meant a shuffle around for the alread-depleted Rubies. Kerry Clark came on at WD, Clare Tottle moved to WA and Laura Coombes to C.

The team settled to their task quickly, with excellent movement in the attacking circle keeping spirits up for the team, however, on this occasion and with so many changes to the team, Rubies were unable to match their opponents.

Paige Pople was voted player of the game.