SARACENS put a disappointing first-half of the season firmly behind them with a 39-36 win over Henley in the West Midlands Regional Netball League.

In a nip-and-tuck first quarter, Henley were 5-2 ahead only to be pegged back by a resolute Saracens who took an 8-6 lead.

Saracens quickly extended their advantage in the second quarter and although it was whittled down, the Worcester side scored four goals in a row to make the score 20-15 at half-time.

As the impetus swayed in the third quarter, Saracens eventually pulled away with another four unanswered goals to lead 30-22.

With 15 minutes to go, Saracens were in a commanding position but were hit by three successive Henley goals.

They kept closing the gap to three goals but the hosts' defensive strength helped them through.

As Henley missed chances, Saracens converted theirs and kept the lead to record their third league victory on the trot.

Their campaign is now not looking so bleak as they enter the Christmas break.

Meanwhile, player-of-the-match Jo Brennan inspired Evesham Reds to a 50-29 win over Yendys in the West Midlands Regional League.

After losing by a single goal earlier in the season, Reds took revenge and quickly built a 10-0 lead with excellent attacking and solid defence.

Yendys made early changes in the second quarter to launch a comeback but patient Evesham maintained a steady lead.

In the third quarter, Claire Lojko moved to wing-attack and Amy O'Meara came on to take her place in the shooting circle.

The Reds picked up the intensity with many interceptions from Lyndsey Braddock and Brennan in the middle of the court.

Yendys ensured a close-fought final quarter but Reds emerged comfortable victors.

The week before, Reds defeated second-in-the-table Bournville 50-37.

Evesham were three goals up by half-time, setting a fast tempo but being kept in check by steady opponents.

O'Meara's appearance as goal shooter posed a different problem and Reds capitalised on some excellent defensive turn-overs.

Lizzie Cross came on at wing-defence for the final quarter and Reds maintained their lead.

With a good all-round team display, Evesham deserved their 13-goal win.

Player-of-the-match was Becky Giles, while Laura O'Meara defended well for Bournville against her sister.