OH, FOR a few more seconds.

Just 10 might have done.

Guernsey Panthers were in possession and searching for a way into the Meon D when the final hooter they had been dreading sounded and with it a final chance of rescuing a brilliant draw from their opening match in Division Three South.

And what a game it was indoors at Beau Sejour.

Down and seemingly out on several occasions, Denise Bourgaize's Panthers responded brilliantly each time – only to fall just short at the death.

Meon coach Debbie Laycock looked mightily relieved at the end and said that Panthers had little to fear at this level.

'We gave the crowd a spectacle,' said the visiting coach as she recognised the closeness of the league opener.

'Real credit to Guernsey and they will do very well and I wish them all the luck,' added Laycock.