A STRETCHED-thin Wessex Hendy Vauxhall volleyball squad headed west to face Taunton and Fireball North Devon as the Southwest League Division One continued.

Despite a tight start to the game, Taunton were able to capitalise on Wessex’s injury woes and took the first set 25-10.

This result only motivated Wessex however, as the second set was a hard-fought 28-26 victory, levelling the game.

Middle hitter, Rosie Miller, helped Wessex to take a strong lead in the third set of 14-5.

However, Taunton fought back and took the lead very late on, finishing the third set 25-27. Another tight battle took place at the beginning of the fourth, but Taunton capitalised on their momentum going into the set, to winning the match three sets to one.

Setter Sarah Clarke gained MVP for the match after consistent strong setting and serving throughout the match.

The second match of the day for Wessex saw them face Fireball North Devon.

Wessex began dominant with a 7-0 lead, firing on all cylinders, and stayed strong throughout, winning 25-14.

Despite attacking well, Wessex continued to show signs of fatigue, and they struggled to find their form in the second and third set, losing both.

However, in the fourth set, Wessex pushed back and level the game, taking the set 26-24.

With it all to play for in the fifth set, Wessex showed their quality and with a final strong serving run from Bella Franchi, Wessex secured the winning set 15-10, winning the game 3-2.

MVP in this one went to middle hitter Rosie Miller, who produced some dominating serves throughout the match, consistently winning points.

Wessex remain at the summit and will hope to continue this streak when they face City of Bristol and Fireball North Devon once again in upcoming weeks.