FACED with almost certain relegation from the third division, Watford Premier with nevertheless in optimistic mood at the start of their final National Clubs League game against Henley on Sunday, December 2.

Running true to form for this season, Premier were again forced to put out an untried combination, with injury and family commitments ruling out key players.

In the opening minutes, the Warwickshire side took the initiative, capitalising on Premier's weak handling and naive movement.

But by the end of the quarter, with the score at 18-11, Premier were edging their way back with excellent shooting by goal shooter Patricia Newton, with the bold support of goal attack Donna Spikings.

In a ragged second period, Henley's determination and mental toughness wore down Premier's fragile attack. They put pressure on Premier's passing into the semi-circle, and, when it broke down, cleared decisively to their two very accurate shooters, and by half time led 36-18.

With subsitutions at goal attack (Clare Doherty) and goal defence (Bridget Beardsley for Zoe Stevenson), Premier took up the challenge, and led by captain Fernanda Chappinelli, they rallied poisitively.

Interceptions by the back three gave them new heart and a new rhythm, with wing attack Elizabeth Warren, Doherty, and Clare Hawkins at centre seizing the moment to flight many well-weighted to Newton.

They took the quarter 15-13, but were still 16 goals adrift.

The last quarter confirmed Henley's superiority through the court, with Prmier offering some but not enough resistance.

At the end of a tough league season, Premier's learning curve has been steep. They must take comfort that in exposing newcomers to the rigorous demands of netball at this level, they have begun to lay a firm foundation for the coming seasons.