NETBALL - HORNETS were crowned champions of the Exmouth Netball League after their 66-28 win over Sidmouth Toucans.

HORNETS were crowned champions of the Exmouth Netball League after their 66-28 win over Sidmouth Toucans, writes Louise Passmore.Hornets went into the game minus two of their most influential players with goal attack Andrea Howe and goal defence, Sarah Harris, both unavailable.This led to tactical tweaking that saw regular centre Sasha Williams drop into defence to partner the usual goal keeper, Louise Passmore, whilst Vanessa Finnigan was called in to play the attack role.Toucans struck first but Hornets, in true champion style, produced an immediate response and dominated the opening quarter, closing it out 16-7 ahead.The second quarter almost mirrored the first, with Toucans starting the stronger, but Hornets dug deep and displayed some great netball to end the period 32-15 ahead. During the third quarter, Hornets began to play some more relaxed netball. Toucans responded and, with their two exceptionally tall shooters, goal shooter, Kirsty Hammond and goal attack, Charis McKenna, were able to seize any chance that came their way.In the fourth quarter, Hornets' wing defence, Jeanette Dale, picked up a back injury but bravely continued to play to the end, albeit very tentatively.Fortunately for Hornets, the game was nearly over and they came out winners by 66 goals to 28. The respective players of the match were Helen Chester the Hornets' goal attack and Charis McKenna, the Toucans' goal attack.