THE Mid-Hants netball team suffered a Christmas hangover as they lost 47-31 to Avon Town at Millbrook School.

They got off to a good start when they turned over Avon's centre pass to score for a confidence-boosting early three-goal lead.

But Avon's quick and consistent shooting meant Mid-Hants were five goals adrift (12-7) at the end of the first half.

The Mid-Hants attack clicked into gear in the second half and their experience began to show, but Avon's wing attack was always a danger, picking up balls all over the court and helping stretch Avon's lead to 21-13.

Mid-Hants started to settle in the third quarter, feeding the ball around the circle and shooting superbly.

Despite some tight defensive play by Mid-Hants super-fit Avon stretched their lead to 30-21 at the end on the third quarter and kept on top of a tiring Mid-Hants until the final whistle.

Star player for Mid-Hants was experienced defender Debbie Pearce of Home James. She was consistent all game and encouraged the other girls all the way through a hard, athletic contest.

Pictured left to right are, front: A Cornwall, B Bryant, D Pearce, S Payne, B Smith, H Mitchell. Back: L Cox, D Tilley, J Hammond, L Batchelor, L Lewington, M Webb.

Please e-mail me at zahraclark1@hotmail.com with details of any netball you think deserves coverage.