THE Swindon and District Netball Association’s Winter League got under way last weekend, with matches limited to the top two divisions ahead of a full league programme this weekend.

Lawn A enjoyed a fine first match of the season in Division One, winning by five goals against Razzle Dazzle.

A close match from start to finish saw some fine interceptions and accurate shooting from Lawn’s shooters earning a 52-47 success, with Lawn’s GS Holly Thompson named player of the match.

Pinehurst A took on Raychem A with a new and inexperienced team, with the score tied at 21-21 after the first half. The Raychem shooting was of a really high standard with the game again tied at 33 apiece going into the final quarter.

Fine shooting from both teams kept the game close but Raychem won 42-41 in the final seconds.

Players of the match were Pinehurst GA Taylor Goodright and Raychem GK/GD Sophie Collins.

In Division Two, a young, newly-formed Lawn C took on Burmah B, pulling back an earlier heavier deficit to lose 39-35, with Charlotte Arnold receiving player of the match.

Croft B started their season well against Lawn B, falling behind in the first half but taking the lead by half-time.

Charlotte Clinton from Lawn made some good tips and interceptions, which earned her player of the match but Croft won 35-23.

Elsewhere, Lawn’s Under 14 and Under 16 squads took part in the Wiltshire tournament, the elder age group winning their category and the Under 14s finishing runners up. Both squads go on to the next round where they will be entered into the regional South West leagues.

n TRACY Watt, from Swindon has been named Grassroots Coach of the Year at the National Goalden Globe Awards.