Sunday 14 February 2016 14:28, UK
Manchester Thunder thrashed early favourites Team Bath 62-37 on Saturday night to tighten their grip at the top of the Vitality Netball Superleague.
Thunder have won all three of their games this season and next face Loughborough Lightning, live on Sky Sports on Monday.
They took an early five-goal lead which was gradually extended throughout the game, with Helen Housby, Liana Liota and Malysha Kelly playing starring roles.
Thunder coach Dan Ryan said: "I don't think many people would have predicted that scoreline. They stepped up to the level of intensity today against a quality side who are among the favourites to win the title."
"Malysha was tenacious and feisty and she was a great anchor for us at the back. She might be shy and reserved but on court she's an absolute competitor and it's great to see that fire form her."
Lightning set themselves up for Monday's clash against Thunder with a first home win of the season, beating Celtic Dragons 58-53.
Lightning scored the opening goal within 13 seconds and carried that momentum until the final whistle with Natalie Panagarry adeptly replacing the injured Sasha Corbin.
With two minutes remaining Lightning had a slender 54-52 lead but Jade Clarke expertly controlled the closing stages for the hosts.
"Although we got the win, which is massively important, I was just really disappointed with the overall performance," admitted Lightning coach Karen Atkinson.
Reigning champions Surrey Storm made light work of Yorkshire Jets, who still haven't won this season. Storm ran out 59-36 winners to draw them level on points with Lightning on six, three points behind Thunder at the top of the Superleague.
