Hertfordshire Mavericks wracked up an impressive 71 goals on Saturday as they comprehensively beat Loughborough Lightning 71-35 in Hatfield.

In front of a sell-out Herts Sports Village home crowd Mavericks were looking to bounce back from a disappointing Zeo Netball Superleague loss to Manchester Thunder in the last round and they did so in some style.

Brilliant all-court defence, and strong shooting from Kadeen Corbin and Sophie Hankin, meant Mavericks had a comfortable 21-9 lead after the first quarter.

Despite Hankin having to leave the court in quarter two due to an injury, the home side didn’t lose their rhythm, with Sarah East coming on at goal attack and shooting Mavericks into a 37-18 lead at half-time.

The second period began in the same fashion as the first, with Mavericks dominating the court from the off.

Lindsey Keable came on at goal keeper and she was a thorn in Loughborough’s side, claiming a number of intercepts and tips.

Mavericks reached 50 goals just before three quarter time, with sisters Kadeen Corbin and Sasha Corbin linking up well together and ensuring the home side led 50-25.

With a comfortable lead Mavericks coach Karen Atkinson made changes for the final quarter with Mikki Austin coming onto centre, Josie Huckle to goal keeper and Vicklyn Joseph to goal shooter.

Mavericks’ defence continued to confuse Loughborough’s attack, as they coughed up the ball through misplaced shots and passes, and it was duly converted by Corbin and Joseph.

As the clock ticked down, the noisy home crowd roared Mavericks to an impressive 71-35 win.

The result will have boosted Mavericks’ confidence, and goal difference, as they look ahead to a crucial clash with Team Bath away on Friday.

Mavericks suffered an agonising one-goal defeat to Bath last time out, and currently sit just behind the west-country side in the table, so they will be looking to pick up maximum points to maintain their place in the top four.