CAPTAIN Maryka Holtzhausen returned from South Africa duty to inspire Severn Stars to a 57-40 victory over Celtic Dragons in front of a sell-out crowd at the new University of Gloucestershire Arena.

The international break seemed to rejuvenate Stars who were looking for their first win of the season after defeats in the opening two rounds of the Vitality Superleague.

Holtzhausen’s experience and game control immediately shone through and her combination with wing attack Iona Darroch was scintillating at times.

At the defensive end, Jamaican international Jodi-Ann Ward also impressed as she turned over ball after ball in the first five minutes

Dragons grew into the game, but Stars’ strong start helped them establish an 11-8 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Welsh shooter Georgia Rowe continued to find the hoop while centre Lucy Harris made it difficult for Dragons to gain any momentum as the hosts remained in front.

Leading 28-21 at half-time and 43-32 at end of the third quarter Stars were in control and made use of their bench in the final quarter.

There were appearances for England A internationals Halimat Adio and Paige Reed as well as a brief cameo for Welsh ace Cara Lea Moseley against her former club as Stars completed an impressive home win.

Stars’ head coach Sam Bird said: “I am really pleased with the performance.

“The Gloucester crowd was great.

“Maryka coming back has given the group a lot of confidence and lifted the level of every player.

“We were solid in every position throughout the court and we have some great depth on the bench now too.”

Stars travel to Team Bath Netball on Friday (7.30pm).