THE final match of the season saw the return of regular goal shooter Shirley Nickson.

With superb shooting from Nickson and Maxine Gumbs (GA) there was little Engineering could do in defence.

A tough game from start to finish but Halton took an early lead and held on through each quarter.

Denise Taylor (WA) and Andrea Gumbs (C) provided the excellent feeder shots into the circle penetrating the Engineering defence.

Sammy Vranch (WD) had her first team season debut and firmly held back the opposition's wing attack.

Michelle Jones came on to replace Vranch as wing defence in the last quarter to do the same.

Jenny Antrobus (GK) and Lisa Talbot (GD) battled hard to intercept balls to Engineering's six-foot shooter but their skill prevailed and Halton were the victors for the 12th time this season making them the 2003 premiership champions.

Maxine Gumbs was awarded player of the match.

A SORE loss for Halton in this crucial match.

A win would have meant a promotion to the premiership next season but it wasn't to be.

Katy Davison was drafted back in from the first team to take the goal shooter bib and Jenny Highcock was brought down from defence to goal attack in a bid to shake the Warrington defence.

An outstanding effort from Emma Williams (C) and Jayne Hughes (WA) in the centre court with some great defensive and attacking play.

Warrington took an early four-goal lead and Halton struggled to catch up.

Superb defending from Lisa Strong gave Halton the opportunity to steal back a few much-needed goals.

Carla Lawrenson (GD) and Bev Jones (GK) headed up the defence winning some important interceptions but the Warrington attack were in good shape and had a one-goal lead at the final whistle.

Lisa Strong was awarded player of the match.