THERE is something a little bit intimidating about the Tauntons Academy team coached by Sharon Cruse.

Most of the players are sports studies students - and the sight of the young, tall, athletic and skilful team taking the court in their black kit could easily make the opposition a little apprehensive.

But Derek Warwick Soton were determined not to hand them an easy game.

The play of both teams was surprisingly steady. At times it looked like they were playing in slow motion but the more they warmed up, the more Tauntons took the play to another level.

The way the girls moved and threw the ball was a pleasure to watch, but they also played with a great amount of discipline and a good attitude.

Goal keeper Nadine Smith is such a lovely player to watch, very athletic and co-ordinated but with a great attitude towards the game - and her opposition.

By half-time, Tauntons had a good lead - by 11 goals - and started to turn on the gas for the next half and stamp their authority on the game.

Derek Warwick did work hard but the younger team's fitness showed itself to be at a higher level and they converted any mistake into a goal.

The game was played in great spirit and was nice to watch - as well as pick up tips from both teams about spacing and running on to the ball to receive a pass, which the Tauntons girls did excellently.

The final score was 38-22 to Tauntons, who did let Derek Warwick come into the game in the last quarter, holding on even though the fightback from the opposition was strong.