Southend Swifts crashed to a heavy defeat against league leaders Plymouth Racers -- despite taking an audacious 10-0 lead.
After the early setback, the Racers showed why they have been National Womens League (South) champions in five of the last six seasons by stepping up the pressure.
Their zone defence forced Southend to shoot unsuccessfully from distance and the away side took advantage to unleash their fast break.
Despite early second-quarter baskets from Vikki Willmore and debutante Francesca Hitt, an eight-point deficit was the closest Southend got after that as Plymouth scored seemingly at will.
Racers' top player, Lloyd, scored 24 in the first half and finished with a match-winning 42.
Swifts now have to regroup before their National Cup second-round clash at Northampton.
Published Wednesday October 23, 2002
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article