NORTHWICH Sapphires made a great start to the new season in the Netball Cheshire Elite Winter League against NW Panthers.

After a slow start NW Panthers took the lead in the first quarter but gradually Sapphires brought it back and went into the last quarter leading by two goals to set the winning platform.

The defensive end of Issy Chaplin, Laura Timm and Rosie Whitfield made it difficult for Panthers to add many more goals.

And with Lydia Patterson moved back into the GA position from centre court, she was able to open up the space for Maddy Dann, who gained confidence throughout the game in her shooting.

Sapphires went on to win the contest 44-37.

Squad: Issy Chaplin, Laura Timm, Rosie Whitfield, Lottie Woodmansey, Sarah Langley, Lydia Patterson, Caitlin Campbell, Maddy Dann.