WORCESTERSHIRE began 2005 in the best possible style, beating Wiltshire 37-31 in Division Three of the English Counties Netball League.

After losing to West Yorkshire in their last game, the home side needed a win to get their season back on track as they eye a return to Division Two.

It was quite evident in the opening exchanges that the Christmas and New Year break had resulted in a loss of fitness and game play was not as sharp as it should have been.

Both sides were working the ball into the circle but the shooting was below par.

Worcestershire gradually got into their stride and gained a 5-2 lead thanks to Becky Giles netting a high percentage of them. This three-goal lead was to be maintained throughout the rest of the first quarter and the home side led 10-7 at the break.

The second quarter proved to be the home side's best where they managed to convert more shots than in the first. Wiltshire scored from long range where as most of Worcestershire's success was from close in from 6ft plus shooter Rachel Hill. Worcestershire outscored Wiltshire by three in this quarter to finish 22-16 up at half time.

Worcestershire's last game had followed a similar pattern up to half time and supporters were hoping that lightning was not going to strike twice with a second defeat snatched from the jaws of victory.

Laura Gale was brought on for her first team debut to replace Sarah Williams at centre for the third quarter.

This period was keenly contested with each side scoring from their own centres. Wiltshire had pulled back three of the six goal deficit and pressure started to mount on the home side.

However, they responded with a quick-fire three-goal burst of their own in the dying moments of the third quarter to maintain the status quo. The quarter closed out with each side scoring eight goals leaving Worcestershire 30-24 ahead.

Claire Johnson replaced Becky Giles at goal attack and Helen Webb came on for Nina Russell at wing attack for the fourth quarter.

This quarter followed much the same pattern as the previous one with the home side setting their stall out to protect their lead.

This they did, successfully replying to each Wiltshire score with one of their own as it ended seven goals apiece and the home side hung on for victory.

Worcestershire now find themselves in second place in the table behind Hampshire North but level on points. The next game is away to local rivals Shropshire who will provide a stern test.

Worcestershire U16s stay level at the top of their division with Sussex after beating Wiltshire 43-21 to maintain their unbeaten run. The U18s have had a disappointing season so far and this continued, losing 50-11 to Wiltshire.

Other result: Seconds -- Worcestershire 30 Wiltshire 24.