WORCESTER Reds started their Mizuno Premier League One netball season with a 49-35 defeat to Viper 10 Blades at the University of Worcester's St John's Campus.

The city side had worked hard in pre-season to boost their strength and fitness for a big campaign ahead.

Iona Darroch joined the squad in attack from city professional team Severn Stars?.

With a sizeable home crowd Reds gained control to lead 9-5 at the end of the first quarter with Hayley Rudd and Lucy Herdman prominent.

But changes to the bench for Vipers increased the pace and they levelled quickly.

Chloe Burrows came on to help the centre court settle with Viper just edging ahead 20-19 by half-time.

Phillippa Yarranton, Darroch, Ellie Moore and Becky Sweet provided fresh legs but Reds struggled to keep possession.

Viper capitalised with 11 quick goals as Reds only managed three.

The Winchester-based visitors owned the quarter and pushed 37-28 ahead.

In the final quarter Reds did not give in but ended up losing by 14.

Reds travel to Tameside Manchester for their next league game on October 8.