SALISBURY Ladies firsts got off to a woeful start in West Clubs Women's Hockey League Premier Division 2A after a 4-1 thrashing at Gloucester seconds.

The visitors dominated the early phases but fell behind following a quick break from the Gloucester forwards.

But Claire Grinham fired home Lisa Lovatt's penalty corner for the leveller as the first half ended honours even.

After the restart, Salisbury paid the price for losing their momentum as they conceded three more goals.

And the hosts could have bagged more if it wasn't for some top-draw saves from teenage stopper Alana Mercer.

The seconds also got off to a losing start, going down 7-2 at home to Mendip in East Division.

The firsts return to action on Saturday by hosting Firebrands (2pm), while the seconds go to City of Bath (11am).

Meanwhile, the men's team start their season at Yateley in Hampshire Area Division 1 on Saturday.