WESSEX took back-to-back opening victories to begin the South West league Division One.

The side headed to Bristol to take on University of Bath and City of Bristol, and after a strong end to last season and the addition of new players, Wessex Hendy Vauxhall had prepared for a challenging day.

Sophie Acott captained the side against Bath, and Wessex made a strong start to the opening set but were pegged back, eventually losing it 25-19.

But the south coast side dominated the second and third set to wrestle back control of the match.

Impressive serving runs, including a 12-point run from Helen Rushby, helped Wessex to 25-14 and 25-7 wins.

Bath struck back, though, and won the fourth with some strong hits through the middle, to win it 25-28.

A close fifth set decided the tie, with Wessex taking it 15-12 to secure their first match of the season with a three sets to two win.

Newcomer Rosie Miller was given MVP for her dominant play through the middle.

Onto the second game against the City of Bristol, Wessex carried good momentum as they lined up against a familiar opposition.

Setter Sarah Clarke captained the side for this match, and Wessex fought hard to win the first set 25-19, despite good tactical play from an experienced opposition.

An arm-wrestle second set saw Wessex win 27-25 thanks to some impressive play at crucial times, before they secured a 3-0 victory by winning the third 25-18.

Opposite hitter Ewa Idzikowska took MVP for her strong serving and attacking, winning points consistently through the match.

Wessex Hendy Vauxhall face Taunton and Fireball North Devon in the league next as they aim to continue their strong start to the season and winning streak.