MENS 1s v Ipswich 2s (L) (H) 6-0 W

LADIES 2NDS ON THE BRINK

The league season ended for six of our teams last Saturday and for the other eight the conclusion is reached this weekend with the most important match being the Ladies' 2nds away to Bury St Edmunds (12.00) on Saturday. Victory for Laura Betts and her team will ensure their deserved promotion which looked threatened by their shock defeat by Sudbury 2nds early in March before three successive wins, including last Saturday's 2-0 away win over Norwich Dragons 2nds, has helped the team to regain the initiative.

Before then the Men's 1sts will be in action against Ipswich 2nds at home tonight (Tuesday, 7.45) hoping to return to winning ways after their 1-1 draw at Havering before they play City of Peterborough 2nds at Weybread on Saturday (2.15) to complete their triumphant and, hopefully, undefeated season. Meantime the Men's 2nds travel to play Ipswich 3rds on Saturday (3.00) with a depleted squad after their crushing 18-0 win over St Neots who to their credit never gave up trying as every Magpies' player, apart from goalkeeper John Livings, tried to get on the score sheet. And ten of the squad succeeded including Craig Snelling who touched in an already goal bound shot! Will Martin made a very promising debut.

The Men's 6ths game against UEA 3rds was notable for the three Graham brothers, Charlie, James and Tom, playing together for the first time and with the rest of the team, led by Kevin Ridley, playing well in the 3-1 win over UEA 3rds. This week the team is away to Bury St Edmunds 4ths on Sunday – the time still awaited.

News and comments in brief

· The Ladies' 6ths tasted defeat for the first time last Saturday at the end of their highly successful season but they were in good company as Bowdon Hightown (EH Slazenger Premier League Champions) and Reading (EH Slazenger Conference East Champions) did likewise.

· The youth section held another successful cake etc stall last Saturday despite the wet and cold weather resulting in many of the goodies being sold at the club instead of in the town. I can recommend apple and raspberry crumble for breakfast! My thanks to all involved and belated thanks also to Caroline Peters for the excellent coffee morning she ran the previous week.

· Matt Brand (Men's 3rds) took his goal tally for the season to 41 last Saturday (he still doesn't pay me for mentions!) but his hat-trick was overshadowed by James Goodson's thoroughly deserved first of the season in the team's 4-1 victory over UEA 2nds. Unfortunately the team have narrowly missed out on promotion at the end of an excellent season under the leadership of Joel Nelson.

· Angie Wheelhouse scored her 15^th goal of the season in the Ladies' 1sts narrow 2-1 defeat at Southgate. Congratulations Angie on finishing the season as the second highest scorer in EH Slazenger Conference East.

· Congratulations also to our two U9 teams which did so well at Watton last Sunday and to skipper Tracy Reeve and her Ladies' 4ths for their promotion.

· The Men's Veterans have a double-header at home this weekend when they play Bedford on Saturday (12.30) and City of Peterborough on Sunday (12.00) while the Men's 3rds and Men's 4ths complete their programmes this Saturday away to Bury St Edmunds (1.30) and at home to Gorleston (4.00) respectively.

· The Mixed team travel to Southgate this Sunday (1.00) seeking a quarter-final place in the EH Trophy.

Best wishes to all our teams and supporters this week.

Mike Denham Tel: 01603 506925 E-mail: MDenham975@aol.com 31/3/09

Already promoted Harleston Magpies 2s trounced relegated St Neots 18-0. Magpies took their time to get going with Robbie Kinsella opening the scoring after 10 minutes. It was only when St Neots were reduced to 10 men after 20 minutes, the goal rush started lol. With Magpies adding another 7 goals to make it 8-0 at half time. The goals came from Jamie Legg, Duncan Steven(2), Will Harrison(2), Martin Fields, Si Hipwell.

Second half saw Magpies showing no mercy and they added a further 10 goals with Fields(2), Hipwell(2) and Steven all completeing their hat-tricks. And further goals from Dave Francis(2), James Stacey, Dan Legg, and a first goal of the season from Craig Snelling. Youngester Will Martin made his debut and although he did not get on the score sheet he was Man of the Match for an excellent performance and good play in lead to several goals.

WOMENS SLAZENGER ENGLAND HOCKEY LEAGUE EAST CONFERENCE

SOUTHGATE 2 HARLESTON MAGPIES 1

Harleston Magpies sponsored by Kitchensense lost an opportunity to finish 3^rd and finally had to settle for 5^th place in the League. After a really strong run since Christmas this was a disappointing way to finish but it was not through lack of effort. For the second time this season against Southgate Magpies conceded a goal in the first minute through Emma Kingstone in a sloppy way having had opportunities to clear the ball and from then it was going to be hard work.

However Magpies responded positively and completely dominated the first half with Cherry Seaborn causing the Southgate defence real problems and Southgate were forced to defend in numbers behind the ball. With Magpies midfield so dominant it was difficult to create clear cut chances in such a crowded final quarter of the pitch. However Magpies were awarded more penalty corners in the first half than they have won in any game this season. Unfortunately good goalkeeping and a lack of a final touch meant that Magpies could not make the most of these opportunities as shots reined in from Frances Sumner, Debbie McAllen ,Angie Wheelhouse and Artemis Clark.

Magpies never had the same domination in the second half in a much more even game where Magpies had to defend several corners and difficult situations themselves but they kept battling away and equalised after 52 minutes with Angie Wheelhouse scoring with a first time shot from a free hit by Debbie McAllen. This set piece has produced several goals this season.

At this point Magpies would probably have settled for the point but Southgate snatched the winner with 9 minutes to go from their own free hit and a first time shot from Emma Kingstone. Magpies deserved better but they can look back on a strong second half to the season with a much more confident and disciplined team performances.

Pelicans Colts 0 - 1 Magpies Ladies IV

Magpies travelled to Kings Lynn to play the league leaders knowing only a win would give them any chance of finishing top.

Magpies started well, enjoying the majority of possession in the Pelicans half, and were only stopped from taking the lead by some good saves from the Pelicans 'keeper. However, later in the half, when a good ball was put through to Magpies' Rachael Clifford, there was only ever going to be one result; Clifford swept the ball into the far corner giving the away side their much deserved goal.

The second half was more evenly contested; Magpies had their chances to put the game beyond doubt and were unlucky not to convert, and they had to stay strong at the back; the defence having to keep out several Pelicans short corner efforts. However, after taking the lead, Magpies were not going to lose it now, and held out for a much deserved victory.

It was a good, fair match played in the right spirit, with the best team winning. Magpies must now wait to see how Pelicans fare at Diss, a draw or loss for the Kings Lynn side would see Magpies claim the league title. But, whatever happens, what a truly incredible season it has been for Magpies Ladies 4th's, with a hard working and commited squad led by captain Tracy Reeve, and vice-captain Liz Cole, and it may only be for a week but we can now say - WE ARE TOP OF THE LEAGUE!!

Kay Dennis, Magpies Ladies 4th's.

Ladies Hockey Harleston Magpies 3rds v Pelicans 2nds 5 - 1

Magpies thirds finished their premier division season in style winning 5-1 against Pelicans. Magpies were expecting a tough game following the draw earlier in the season, but a combination of the changes in the pelicans team and the improvement in the magpies girls over the season meant the task was easier than expected.

In cold, blustery and wet conditions magpies started confidently moving the ball early, creating many attacks on the Pelis goal. Julie Podd opened the scoring from a penalty corner, the first shot was well saved by the keeper, but another foul and an excellent advantage by the umpire allowed Julie to follow up her own shot. Jaz bartlett who was using her pace to good advantage on the right added a second before half time. Magpies defence allowed few serious threats to the home teams goa with CC and Julie Podd holding firm in the tackle.

Podd adding a third from a short corner, the clean strike deflected off the advancing defenders stick. Lizzie Clymer who had been commanding in midfield all game was then allowed to dribble her way into the 'D' and her strike found the roof of the net. Pelicans continued to make magpies work hard and after some sloppy defending scored from a penalty corner of their own. Laura Tibbenham then rounded off the scoring after good interplay between Becky Marshall Jaz Bartlett.

An excellent season for the thirds with only one loss since the christmas break. If only the two draws had been won magpies would have been looking at promotion now.

Havering 1 - Harleston 1

Harleston travelled to third placed Havering looking to continue their winning form after clinching the league title last weekend. With only two changes to the squad, Ben Wright coming in and Tom Sumner unavailable due to injury the team travelled in high spirits.

Harleston started the game well controlling the majority of the game in Havering's half. With Havering camped in their own half Harleston played the ball round with ease but despite all of the ball Harleston struggled to create many clear cut chances. The team finally grabbed the break through after good pressure from the forward line resulted in a turn over ball. Neil 'the father figure' Toulson pounced on the free ball, turning the keeper before finishing well using all of his experience.

Havering started to come back into the game using the aeriel game to their advantage, despite this they only created one half chance but the ever sprightly Bedwell was on hand to fend off the danger.

Havering came out harder the second half pushing the Magpies team deeper, as Harleston tried to push forward they ran the risk of being caught on the break. With Harleston creating chances Toulson nearly grabbed his second but was denied following a smart save from the Havering keeper. Havering were awarded a short corner following Gill's dismissal which they dispatched to level up the game.

Harleston desperate to keep their unbeaten record intact stepped up their game but still coould not find their second goal. It was Havering who had the last chance of the game following another corner from Bale's dismissal saw Richard Harms make a string of fine saves before the danger was cleared.

Harleston welcome Ipswich to Weybread on Tuesday night before their final league game at home to Peterborough on Saturday.

LADIES 1s v Southgate (L) (A) 1-2 L

LADIES 2s v Norwich Dragons 2s (L) (A) 2-0 W

LADIES 3s v Pelicans 2s (L) (H) 12.15 (S) 5-1 W

LADIES 4s v Pelicans Colts (L) (A) 1-0 W

LADIES 5s v Lowestoft Railway 2s (L) (A) 0-2 L

LADIES 6s v Thetford 2s (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 3-4 L

MENS 1s v Havering (L) (A) 1-1 D

MENS 2s v St Neots (L) (H) 18-0 W

MENS 3s v UEA 2s (L) (H) 4-1 W

MENS 4s v Lowestoft Town (L) (A) 8-2 W

MENS 5s v Norwich City 4s (L) (A) 3-0 W

MENS 6s v UEA 3s (L) (H) 3-1 W

MENS Vets v Pelicans (L) (A) OFF

LADIES 4s v Harriers (L) (H) 6-0 W PROMOTION!

Harriers 0 - 6 Magpies Ladies IV

Magpies went into this rearranged evening match knowing a win would secure promotion, and win they did!

Magpies started positively, making ground into the Harriers D, and forcing their 'keeper to make some good saves. The breakthrough wasn't long in coming, with the Magpies attack firing in shots, but they were held out, until a well positioned Zoe Cole swept in a rebound making it one nil. Magpies then really began to dominate the game keeping the ball nearly entirely in the Harriers half. The second goal was a real team effort; the passing starting from the back and finishing with a Racheal Clifford shot in one fluid motion. Beth Alexander grabbed a thrid for Magpies near the end of the half.

The second half saw more of the same, a brilliant ball through to the left wing saw Racheal Clifford get her second goal of the night. Centre forward Kay Dennis made it five shortly after, and then added her second minutes later, a good shot to beat the Harriers 'keeper.

Credit must be given to all 13 players involved, it was a real team effort. Kristina Erith in the Magpies goal solid and dependable as usual; Sandra Elliner, Liz Cole, Gina Scott and Spohie Moore in the defence strong and inpenetrable; Treacle Snelling, Nic Beevor, Zoe Cole, and Beth Alexander working hard in the midfield controlling the game; and Laura Schultheiss, Kay Dennis and Racheal Clifford combining well on the forward line. Special mention must also go to captain Tracy Reeve for her cameo appearance under the floodlights!

A much improved performance from Magpies, giving them confidence going into the crucial match at Kings Lynn at the weekend against the league leaders.

Promotion! Promotion! Promotion!

What a weekend we've just had! It was surely one of the most memorable in the history of the club with the Men's 1sts, Men's 2nds and Ladies' 6ths gaining promotion on the Saturday and the U13 Girls winning the Norfolk Minis in fine style on the Sunday. On Saturday we also had the Ladies' 1sts gaining their third successive win and the Ladies' 2nds and 4ths winning to keep alive their promotion prospects. And on the Saturday in glorious weather I was invited to join Mr and Mrs Moore and Mr and Mrs Sitch for their picnic in the car park. It was almost like being at Henley!

After eight years the Men's 1sts are back in the national league and after the disappointments and frustrations of the three previous seasons in East Premier A (2nd, 2nd, 1st (but no promotion)) they thoroughly deserve this fine achievement. And on a personal note it is no secret that Saturday's 7-1 win over Wisbech came as a considerable relief to my nervous system!

Congratulations and thanks to manager Robert Stimpson, player-coach Richard Gill, coaches Philip Cobbald and Les Howlett and captain Leigh Sitch and vice-captain David Ling and all other members of the squad for their great success. It has been achieved by a combination of thorough planning led by Robert and outstanding commitment by all involved on training and match days. A word of praise and thanks must also go to former coach Bob Skinner who laid some of the foundations of the present success and who has assisted Robert on home match days this season.

My congratulations and thanks also go to coach Matt Brand and captain Lawrence Baynes and the rest of the Men's 2nds and to captain Shirley McAllen and the Ladies' 6ths on their promotion. Both squads have played some excellent hockey this season and like the Men's 1sts deserve their success.

The U13 Girls and coaches Nick McAllen and Nigel Wooltorton did the club proud on Sunday by winning the Norfolk Minis with six wins from six games and they now go forward to the East Minis which the club is hosting over the weekend of Saturday/Sunday 25/26 April. Congratulations and best wishes.

Last Saturday the Ladies' Development lost their final match of the season (their first loss since the formation of the Norfolk Development league at the beginning of last season) but with managers David Brook and Nigel Wooltorton everyone who has played for the team can look back on another season with pride. And there is more to sport than winning – although it does help one's enjoyment!

A weakened Men's 5ths also lost last Saturday but with promotion assured the previous weekend Ed Watson and his team were able to approach their game in the knowledge that they had also had a fine season and with only four points dropped in the previous eleven games they too had deserved a move up the leagues.

The season still has a little way to go with the Ladies' 1sts completing their programme at Southgate on Saturday (12.00) where a win would ensure them of at least fourth place in EHL Conference East while the Men's 1sts have a tricky looking game away to Havering where they will be looking to stretch their unbeaten run to 31 matches (including the last 11 of last season) with two more (home) games next week – versus Ipswich 2nds on Tuesday (7.45 (pm!)) and City of Peterborough 2nds on the Saturday.

Before then the Ladies' 4ths play Harriers at Weybread tomorrow night (Wednesday, 7.45) and they complete their season on Saturday (3.30) away to Pelicans Colts. A win against Harriers would assure them of second place and promotion before they face the league leaders on Saturday where another win would give them top spot.

The Ladies' 3rds and Men's 2nds and Men's 3rds have centre stage at Weybread this Saturday with the Ladies' 3rds playing Pelicans 2nds (12.15) while at 2.15 the Men's 2nds play St Neots (who won their first points of the season last Saturday) and the Men's 3rds play UEA 2nds (4.00). The Men's 3rds will be hoping that they can win this match and next Saturday's - and that the UEA 1sts lose both their last two matches - if they are to clinch the second promotion spot behind Felixstowe. Meantime the Ladies' 2nds are away to Norwich Dragons 2nds (10.30) and they need to win this game and that against Bury St Edmunds 2nds on Saturday week to be certain of second place and promotion.

* * *

End of Season Bash (7.30pm Saturday 18 April - at the club)
Please come along – we have a lot to celebrate this season!!!
Tickets (Adults £10, U13s £5 including food) are now available from the clubhouse bar, Mary Wright (07747 795481) or me. Dancing to ginger tom & the GO cats Please get your tickets asap!

* * *

Best wishes to all our teams and supporters this weekend.

Mike Denham Tel: 01603 506925 E-mail: MDenham975@aol.com 24/3/09

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies sponsored by Kitchen Sense play their final League game of the season on Saturday against Southgate away starting at 12.00. With both teams level on points Magpies will need to beat Southgate in order to move above them and clinch fourth place. Magpies lost heavily to Southgate in a pre season game just before the League season started and then lost 3-0 at home to them earlier in the season. Magpies have only lost to League leaders Reading since Christmas winning five and drawing two of their remaining games and will want to finish the season on a high.

During this time the defence has been tightened up, the midfield looks much more fluent and the forwards are back scoring goals. Last week's impressive 3-0 home win against St Albans showed how all these facets of the game have improved.

SQUAD FROM : Louisa Greenacre (Capt), Lucy Hayman, Lucy Miller, Bryony Lund, Debbie McAllen, Ellie Catchpole, Frances Sumner, Helen Brook, Katrina Warnes, Anna Toulson, Artemis Clark, Cherry Seaborn, Charlotte Harrison and Angie Wheelhouse.

LADIES 1s v St Albans (L) (H) 3-0 W

LADIES 2s v North Walsham (L) (H) 2-0 W

LADIES 3s v Norwich Dragons 3s (L) (H) 4-0 W

LADIES 4s v Breckland (L) (A) 3-0 W

LADIES 5s v Loddon 2s (L) (H) 0-1 L

LADIES 6s v Norwich Dragons 4s (L) 3-0 W (W/O) CHAMPIONS!

LADIES Dev. v Yarmouth (L) (H) 0-1 L CHAMPIONS (weeks ago!)

Sun 22

MINIS – Norfolk U13 Girls' Championships (H)

WINNERS – HARLESTON MAGPIES!!

MENS 1s v Wisbech Town (L) (H) 7-1 W CHAMPIONS!!

MENS 2s v Redbridge & Ilford (L) (A) 2-0 W PROMOTION!

MENS 3s v Felixstowe (L) (A) 0-5 L

MENS 4s v UEA (L) (H) 1-4 L

MENS 5s v Lowestoft Railway 2s (L) 2-4 L PROMOTION (last week)

MENS 6s v Ipswich 5s (L) (A) 3-3 D

MENS Vets v Chelmsford (L) (H) 5-3 W
Sun 22

MENS 1s v Bedford Town (L) (H) 4-0 W

MENS Senior Vets v LX Club (H) 1-1 D

Magpies Development Team lost their first game of the season 1-0 against a much improved Great Yarmouth side.

The game was decided midway through the second half when Yarmouth forced the ball home following a goalmouth scramble. Magpies pushed hard for the equaliser and came close on numerous occasions but on the day could not find the equalising goal.

This has been a truly remarkable championship winning season for the girls having played 18, won 16, drew 1, lost 1. Goals scored 52, Conceded 3

Magpies Win Norfolk Championship

Magpies hosted the National Mini Hockey Championship Norfolk Festival and were emphatic winners against some strong opposition. Throughout the tournament the girls produced quality hockey enabling Magpies to win all six games, scoring a very impressive 23 goals whilst conceding none.

This victory shall see Magpies representing Norfolk in the East Regional Finals hosted at Weybread over the weekend of 25/26th April.

Results:-v Watton 8-0, Norwich City 3-0, Dereham 2-0, Pelicans 6-0, Greshams 2-0, Norwich School 2-0

Goalscorers Holly Baker 13, Sarah Brook 5, Saffron Wilford 4, Jemima Jacobs 1

Team:- Sarah Brook capt, Katie Rudd GK, Kira Wooltorton, Katherine Ridley, Elizabeth Jones, Holly Baker, Jemima Jacobs, Saffron Wilford, Rosie Chubbock

WOMENS SLAZENGER ENGLAND HOCKEY LEAGUE EAST CONFERENCE

HARLESTON MAGPIES 3 ST ALBANS 0

Harleston Magpies sponsored by Kitchensense produced another impressive performance as they proved far too strong for St Albans in the second half and could easily have added to their tally of three goals. Having lost 4-1 away to St Albans just before Christmas Magpies were unrecognisable from the team that played that day.

Early in the first half St Albans showed signs of the way they caused Magpies problems last time as several of their passes went straight through the centre of the Magpies press picking out their high forwards who were able to turn and run at the Magpies defence. St Albans gave Magpies an uncomfortable ten minutes during this spell but the Magpies defence led by Louisa Greenacre cleared the danger. Once Magpies had sorted out their press the home side started to control the midfield as it has done so many times in recent weeks.

Good attacking play at the beginning of the second half saw Magpies take the lead through Artemis Clark after 43 minutes and when Cherry Seavborn added a second after 55 minutes the game was effectively over. Both these young forwards were putting in impressive performances and Magpies were now dominating the game. Another young player Bryony Lund was slotting comfortably into midfield and St Albans were clearly struggling to cope with Magpies as Angie Wheelhouse and Anna Toulson were threatening to add to the score line. Magpies had two very strong claims for penalty flicks as the St Albans goalkeeper twice took out players. Finally Angie Wheelhouse added a third with a shot from the top of the circle.

In the final League game next week against Southgate in North London a win would see Magpies finish in third place. Magpies form since Christmas has been impressive and had they played like this earlier in the season they would have been fighting for second place finish.

Harleston 4 – Bedford 0

Harleston, sponsored by Hutton and Legg welcomed Bedford to Weybread, in their second game of the weekend. After clinching the title against Wisbeach on the Saturday, Magpies were looking to keep their unbeaten record intact. With Bedwell and Fanger missing the team welcomed Craig Snelling, John Livings and Sam Moore to the fold.

Magpies started the sharper of the two sides and were unlucky not to break through early on going close; first with Chris Barber rattling the post from a deflection and then Andy Hipwell shook the bar from a short corner strike. Eventually the pressure told and the deadlock was broken midway through the first half, when Magpies won a short corner which was converted by Neil Toulson after a well executed routine. After this opening goal Magpies enjoyed large spells of possession but were unable to increase on their advantage before the half time break, with the best chance falling to Stuart Leate who shot goal ward, only to see his teammate Wheeler turn the ball wide from close range.

Bedford began the second period in a more determined manner and played some neat hockey at times, forcing some good reaction saves from youngster John Livings. It was the home side though who stretched their lead, when Richard Gill's seeking aerial found Barber who picked out Richard Ling for a well deserved goal.

With Bedford pushing high Magpies were able to take advantage on the break when Hipwell slide the ball through to Barber who was upended by the keeper, Magpies had a chance to add to their lead from the penalty spot, Hipwell backed himself to score and he confidently flicked the ball in off the post to give Magpies a 3 – 0 lead.

With Magpies in a commanding position there was still time for the fourth and final goal of the game, when they broke through Ling and then Hipwell who found Barber diving in at the far post to complete a good team performance.

Harleston travel to Havering next week looking to continue their run of high scoring games.

Harleston Magpies 7 – 1 Wisbech Town

Harleston Magpies Men's 1st XI, sponsored by Hunton Legg, clinched a second consecutive NE14 East Premier A League title, winning emphatically against an up and coming Wisbech side.

Magpies came into the match knowing that a win would give them the title, and a confident start showed the large home support that they were to do just that.

Magpies went ahead early with a routine penalty corner strike from Andy Hipwell. Tristan Baynes added a second with a trademark finish from the top of the D.

Magpies continued to add pressure with numerous high quality attacks, which unfortunately came to no avail. The score remained 2-0 at half time.

The second half continued where the first stopped with further goals coming from another Hipwell short corner and a quick-fire brace from Chris Barber.

The experienced Neil Toulson got his name on the score sheet when he smashed a loose ball home from close range. James Fanger also tapped home from short range after a cutting ball in from captain Leigh Sitch took a deflection from Toulson to hit the bar and subsequently fall at Fanger's feet for an easy finish.

Wisbech managed to get one back through an impressive short corner strike. This did not faze the ever-impressive defence, which included the talisman Andrew Bedwell who made his come back from injury to guide the team to the league victory.

The victory means that after a lengthy absence, Harleston Magpies gain promotion back to the National Hockey League.

Magpies 2s secured promotion to East Premier B for next season with a convincing 2-0 victory at Redbridge and Ilford. Whilst Magpies totally controlled the game, they found it difficult to break down a stubborn Redbridge side who packed their defence from the start.

Magpies piled on the pressure and nearly opened the scoring on a number of ocasions with both Robbie Kinsella and Will Harrison going close from a number of penalty corners. They eventually opened the scoring when a good break from Craig Snelling found Lawrence Baynes at the top of the circle who fired home for his first goal of the season. Magpies continued to dominate with Redbridge only rarely breaking out of their own half. Snelling then went closest for Magpies when he hit the post, but at half time it was still only 1-0.

Second half was played in a similar fasion with Redbridge content to soak up the pressure and home to catch Magpies on the break. Midway through the half, Magpies doubled their lead when James Stacey finished off a good move down the right hand side, Redbridge tried to play a more attacking game but Magpies defence held firm. At the other end Magpies failed to increase their leauge. The only other event of note was an unfortunate yellow card for the excellent skipper Baynes who took it for the team.

So Magpies were rewarded for an excellent season with a well deserved promotion. Man of the match was Lawrence Baynes.

Action shots from tournament at Weybread including a video clip below of one of the goals.

Magpies Development Team played their last match of the season in glorious sunshine at Weybread.
Kira Wooltorton made the team a cake to celebrate their fantastic season.

A big thank you goes to coach Nigel Wooltorton for his hard work and guidance throughout the season.

Breckland 0 - 3 Magpies Ladies IV

Magpies travelled to Watton knowing only a win would be good enough in their push for promotion.
The away side started slowly, struggling to find their good form from previous weeks, with Breckland making ground into Magpies' defensive third. Magpies held out at the back though, and slowly began to get into the game, the midfield playing the ball up to the forward line, and creating some shooting opportunities. The much needed breakthrough came when Racheal Clifford passed to Kay Dennis in the D who rounded the last defender, slipped the ball past the Breckland 'keeper and gave Magpies the lead. Minutes before the break a short corner strike from Treacle Snelling somehow found its way into the goal doubling the away side's advantage.
The second half saw Magpies battling to keep their lead with Treacle Snelling, Tracy Reeve and Zoe Cole working tirelessly in the midfield. Near the end of the game, Racheal Clifford put the result beyond doubt with Magpies' third goal.
A tough game for Magpies, but an excellent result going into their midweek clash with Harriers, before the crucial, final match against the league leaders next weekend.

Kay Dennis, Magpies Ladies 4th's.

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies sponsored by Kitchensense are at home on Saturday against St Albans starting at 12.30. With just two League games left this season Magpies will be looking for maximum points in their final two League games as they try to push their way into 4th place currently held by Southgate, who they play in their final League game.

Magpies lost to St Albans 4-1 away at the end of November in a game where Magpies were lucky not to concede more goals in an embarrassing performance. The memories of that day were the basis of Magpies much improved performances since Christmas with Magpies winning 4 drawing 2 and only losing to League leaders Reading, and it could easily been 6 wins having conceded two late equalisers in the drawn games.

Hopefully St Albans will find Magpies unrecognisable from the team they beat 4-1 last time they met.

SQUAD : Louisa Greenacre (Capt), Lucy Hayman, Lucy Miller, Bryony Lund, Debbie McAllen, Ellie Catchpole, Frances Sumner, Katrina Warnes, Helen Brook, Anna Toulson, Artemis Clark, Cherry Seaborn, Charlotte Harrison and Angie Wheelhouse.

Rhian puts the 6ths on the verge!

It was quieter than usual at the club last Saturday with only four games to watch in contrast to the nine in prospect this weekend. The Ladies' 6ths got the ball rolling with another good win (4-0 over Loddon 3rds – congratulations to Rhian Earrye on scoring all four!) which puts them on the verge of promotion. They were followed by the Men's 3rds who gave an untypically poor performance in drawing 3-3 with Pelicans 2nds thereby damaging their promotion prospects. But to their credit they rallied well from being three goals down at half time. It was good to see Deben Nelson watching after his recent surgery including an appendectomy. Best wishes for your recuperation Deben. In the clubhouse after the game a jealous reference was made to the number of times I mention Matt Brand in this column. I can assure everyone, including Andy Smith who is one of my most avid readers, that I would always give plenty of mentions to someone who can score 37 goals in 19 games!!

We then saw an entertaining game between the Men's 2nds and Cambridge University 2nds and the 1-1 draw (another goal for leading scorer Martin Fields) left Lawrence Baynes and his team needing one win from three games for promotion alongside Letchworth. John Livings had another good game in goal and Louis Steven made the tackle of the season to deny the students what looked like a certain winner.

To round off the day the Men's 6ths had a comfortable 3-0 win over Bury St Edmunds 5ths. In the meantime we had the excellent news that the Ladies' 1sts had won 2-1 at Horsham, to extend their fine run of form, and the Men's 5ths had won 8-1 against UEA 3rds to secure promotion (congratulations to Ed Watson and Richard Allcock and their squad) and the frustrating news that the Men's 1sts had conceded a late equaliser to draw 2-2 at Bedford.

In this Saturday's hectic home programme the Ladies' 1sts entertain St Albans (12.30) in their last home game of the season looking to banish the memories of their 4-1 defeat when the teams met in November and the Men's 1sts will be seeking the three points they need (from their remaining five games) for the East Premier A title and promotion when they host Wisbech (2.15). Also on Saturday the Ladies' Development are at home to Yarmouth (10.45) in their final match of the season hoping to extend their remarkable unbeaten run to two full seasons. My thanks go to team managers Nigel Wooltorton and David Brook for looking after the squad so expertly again this season.

In a busy day at Weybread on Sunday the club hosts the Norfolk U13 Girls' Minis starting at 9.30am (good luck to our team) to be followed at 12 noon by the annual match between the Senior Men's Veterans and the LX Club (organised by our deputy president Tony Williams) and at 2.15 by the Men's 1sts playing Bedford in their once abandoned and once postponed league match.

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Ladies Norfolk Summer League Hockey – April to July

(For those playing Norfolk League standard only)

If anyone would like to run a team in this league for Magpies please contact Julie Podd, Ladies' Club Captain, to discuss on 01379 855041.

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News and comments in brief

· Best wishes for speedy treatment and recovery to Jose Tibbenham who is on crutches due to a dodgy knee. I must ensure the club's stairlift is working on Saturday!

· David Francis scored his first hat-trick in 15 years with the club at Witham on 7 March and I failed to record this achievement last week! My apologies and congratulations David!

· Talking of hat-tricks congratulations also to Roger Kent on his achievement away against Bedford Vets last Saturday and to Tristan Baynes for his trio in the 5-1 win for the Mixed team at Bedford last Sunday. Gavin Cole came close to a hat-trick in the same match but sportingly conceded that Tristan's shot was fractionally over the line before he rightly made sure it was! The Mixed are now away to Southgate on Sunday 5 April in the national trophy.

· This Saturday at the club a collection will be made on behalf of the RAF Association.

· Tickets (Adults £10, U13s £5) for the End of Season Bash (7.30pm Saturday 18 April) are now available from the clubhouse bar, Mary Wright (07747 795481) or me. Please come along – you will be very welcome.

Best wishes to all our teams and supporters this weekend.

Mike Denham Tel: 01603 506925 E-mail: MDenham975@aol.com 17/3/09

Magpies So Close

Harleston Magpies men’s hockey team sponsored by Hunton Legg moved closer to regaining their national league status by securing a point at Bedford at the weekend.A poorly controlled game with Bedford working hard to disrupt Magpies flowing hockey resulted in only the second match of the season in which Magpies dropped points.With Cambridge University winning Magpies need just three points from their remaining five games to ensure the title returns to Weybread for the second year running .This season however there is no reorganisation to the national league and automatic promotion applies.

Robert Stimpson Harleston’s Manager commented during the week.”It has been eight years since we were relegated from the national league, during this time and a number of people have worked really hard to enable us to be in a position to regain our national league status.This weekend we have two home games against Wisbech and Bedford and I sincerely hope we secure the necessary points to win the league .James Fanger absent from the Bedford game through injury hopes to be fit for at least one of these games.Ben Wright joins the squad as cover for the weekend and John Livings an ever present in the second team goal is added to the squad on Sunday.”

With Magpies having games in hand over other teams, they approached Saturday knowing that a run of wins would see them into second place. With so much depending on the game it was great to see some of the younger members of the club(the first team) travel all the way to Bedford to support the Vets. Resplendent in their red hoodies and looking like some boy band yet to make it big, they watched for all of five minutes before the delights of tennis ball cricket appealed more.

At this point I must pay tribute to the foresight and tactical brilliance of our captain. There were only ten players available for this fixture but Magpies were not fazzed by this as captain Bardwell had ensured we were quite used to playing with only ten players owing to the yellow cards he had received recently. While the rest of us thought this was down to ill discipline he was really planning for the future. He also had the club's reputation at heart by these acts of self sacrifice. He could have belittled the opposition by just taking himself off but no, that would seem ungracious so he contrived, obviously against what comes naturally, to get himself carded to ensure we were able to cope with the reduced number.

Magpies always had the ability to keep hold of the ball and to move it around. Forwards John Wells and Roger Kent were often given the ball with no support coming from midfield but we don't expect them to pass anyway so why waste energy when they cause the opposition enough problems on their own. Each scored once in the first half. At the other end stand in goalkeeper Chris Humphries made one very good save with his hand.

Bedford had one player in midfield who could problems but he was forced sideways so effectively he ended up going back into the clubhouse during the middle part of the game and emerging twenty minutes later.

Magpies added further goals through John Wells and two from Roger Kent including one superb reverse stick effort. The last few minutes were enlivened only by the Magpies defence deciding that Chris Humphries should have to defend a couple of short corners, the young supporters returned and rounded on Les Howlett when his attempted shot lacked power and direction in equal amounts and then the captain was working up to another act of self sacrifice but the umpires generosity thwarted his plans and kept him on the pitch.

Dear Magpie

Our May Day Weekend Hockey Festival is fast approaching – this year to be played on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th of May 2009.

Click here for entry form Word document which can be filled in and returned by email

Click here for invitation pdf file

Kirstin is already drumming up trade, kitchen helpers, umpires and numerous other support staff but the big thing we really need are teams.

The tournament can accommodate 72 teams over the weekend so don’t miss your chance to enter a team or be part of one and if you do have friends at other hockey clubs or schools please encourage them to get involved.

Team entry forms are available from the club notice board, or via the links at the top of this page.

This is the 21st year we will be holding our festival weekend and I would like to see as many club faces old and new at the event.

For those who have not attended before our event is a little different, with a different competition each day of the weekend giving everyone a chance of a game. This year the running order is:

Saturday 2nd May Open Mixed Challenge

Sunday 3rd May Veterans Mixed Challenge

Monday 4th May Ladies and Mens Club XI Tournament

By next weekend (21st March) there will also be a signing up board in the clubhouse if you are free to play and not currently in a team – please sign up and we will find you a club team to be part of. Alternatively if you are not near the clubhouse over the next few weeks email me on tournament@magpies-hockey.co.uk.

Thanks

James Smith

WOMENS SLAZENGER ENGLAND HOCKEY LEAGUE EAST CONFERENCE

HORSHAM 1 HARLESTON MAGPIES 2

Harleston Magpies continued their good form since the Christmas break with a hard fought match where Magpies had to grind out a result with a late winner. Horsham's surprisingly late arrival at the pitch worked against them as Magpies took the lead after one minute. Debbie McAllen picked out Angie Wheelhouse wide on the left and her early cross found Anna Toulson in the circle whose shot was deflected past the goalkeeper by Cherry Seaborn.

Magpies forwards were looking dangerous on the break and seemed likely to create enough chances to pick up a second goal. Horsham then started to put some pressure on the Magpies defence who did not always deal with the situation decisively. Fortunately Magpies were able to deal with Horsham from penalty corners. After 23 minutes Horsham picked up a soft equaliser with a defensive deflection past Lucy Hayman and this clearly unsettled Magpies for a short period.

It was never going to be a pretty game because of the pitch and because of the way Horsham were allowed to tackle from all angles and in any manner which made playing passing hockey very difficult. The fact that Horsham picked up four green cards and one yellow explains the kind of a game that was being played. Magpies played much better in the second half as the forwards pressed the ball much quicker as a unit and this allowed the Magpies midfield to dominate the second half. Despite all this possession Magpies were finding it difficult to create any real clear cut chances.

With 10 minutes to go Magpies had their reward as a free hit from Debbie McAllen found Angie Wheelhouse in the circle for her to score the winner. Horsham were never able to mount a serious response as they were quickly reduced to ten players and Frances Sumner, Anna Toulson and Ellie Catchpole and Cherry Seaborn just kept possession of the ball down the right hand side winning free hits and penalty corners. This was not a pretty game but Magpies showed they can adapt to different circumstances.

Bedford 2 - Harleston 2

This week saw the team travel to Bedford on a glorious saturday afternoon with the team knowing four more points would clinch the title. Magpies slower out of the blocks than the previous two weeks struggled to string passes together as Bedford pressured them high up the pitch.

Richard Harms was called into action early pulling off a good save at a penalty corner. With 10 minutes on the clock Chris Barber celebrated after trickling the ball over the line follwoing a quick free hit from Gill found Baynes who played a pin point pass to Barber's stick.

Despite coming under more pressure the team defended valiantly to keep their lead intack. Goal machine Andy Hipwell soon gave the team a two goal cushion when he dispatched a trademark short corner.

Magpies again came out slowly second half, never really finding their feet. The team were being pushed further and further back despite some solid defending Bedford pulled a goal back following a melle in the teams area. Despite trying to play their normal passing game the team never strung their normal flowing passes together, their plight was soon not helped when David Ling was sin binned for a clinical foul after being hussled off the ball.

The team managed to hold on to their lead until four minutes to go when an initial shot was palmed away by Harms but the rebound hit a Bedford player who was able to finish.

Next week Wisbeach travel to Harleston looking to avenge the defeat they recieved at their place.

Magpies 2s maintained their unbeaten home record and their push for promotion when they drew 1-1 with Cambridge University 2s. This was a point gained rather than 2 points lost as Magpies rarely played to their strengths and the students played particually well.

Students started very brightly and had 3 good chances in the first 5 minutes, one being blazed over the bar and the other 2 saved by John Livings, Magpies were struggling to string any passes together and cambridge took the lead from penalty corner drag-flick into the top corner. Slowly Magpies faught there way into the game and went close through Martin Fields. They gained a couple of penalty corners but these were well defended by the students.

At the other end Magpies were constantly stretched and Cobbald cleared a penalty corner off the line and Livings a couple more good saves. Half time came with Magpies still trailing.

Second half saw Magpies step up their game and had the majority of possesion and they kept trying to force the ball but no body was able to get on the end of balls to get the final touch, as the game warm on Magpies became more frustrated and were regually caught on the break. On one occasion they two players broke into the area and worked the ball well between them before loui steven got back to clear off the line.

Magpies finally got their equaliser 10 minutes from the end when Duncan Steven threaded a delightful pass through the students defence for Martin Fields to deflect past the keeper. The game went from end to end with Brando going close from a penalty corner whilst at the other end Livings was brought into action with another couple of saves and Dave Francis made an excellent stop from a penalty corner.

At the end Magpies were happy to take a point from an entertaining game. Man of the Match was John Livings with Loui Steven pushing him close.

LADIES 1s v Horsham (L) (A) 2-1 W

LADIES 2s v Evergreens (L) (A) 1-0 W

LADIES 3s v Sprowston (L) (A) 1-3 L

LADIES 4s v Sprowston 2s (L) (A) 2-2 D

LADIES 5s v Norwich Dragons 4s (L) (A) 1-0 W

LADIES 6s v Loddon 3s (L) (H) 4-0 W

LADIES Dev. v North Walsham (L) (A) 0-0 D

MENS 1s v Bedford (L) (A) 2-2 D

MENS 2s v Cambridge Univ 2s (L) (H) 1-1 D

MENS 3s v Pelicans 2s (L) (H) 3-3 D

MENS 4s v UEA 2s (L) (A) 2-2 D

MENS 5s v UEA 3s (L) (A) 8-1 W

MENS 6s v Bury St Edmunds 5s (L) (H) 3-0 W

MENS Vets v Bedford (L) (A) 5-1 W

Sun 15 March
MIXED v Bedford (EH Trophy) (A) 2.30 5-1 W
(T Baynes (3), G Cole (2))