Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus to stop and/or return shots for use with a sports goal net having a goal frame with a pair of posts and a cross bar connected to one end of each of pair of posts. The pair of posts and top cross bar defining a goal opening. The apparatus includes a first side deflector, shaped to cover part of the goal opening, and connected to one of the pair of posts by a first connector means adapted to permit the first side deflector to rotate about the post from a first closed position in front of the goal opening to one or more open positions to the outside of said post. A second side deflector, shaped to cover the remaining part of the goal opening, is connected to the other of said pair of posts by second connector means adapted to permit the second side deflector to rotate about the post from a first closed position in front of the goal opening to one or more open positions to the outside of said post.