Norwich Dragons 3rds 0 Harleston Magpies 7ths 5

With Magic away in Cornwall seeking more literary inspiration or perhaps something else, its back to the usual writer of these pieces.

An innovation for this game was a publishing the starting eleven on the internet on the Wednesday prior to the game. However the astute skipper was not giving anything away by listing the names out of position. After all it was unlikely that I would ever appear as a left side striker.

Another change from the norm was in having thirteen players present and ready for the start including debutant Toby Williamson who lowered the average age considerably.

It was obvious from the start that Dragons would pose greater problems than encountered in previous weeks as they closed down space preventing Magpies passing game from getting going despite having the majority of possession. There was even a 'toys out of the pram' incident or rather a stick hurled at the astro turf when a Magpie passed the ball into a space recently vacated by a team mate. It was thus a little surprising when Magpies took the lead when a hard strike into the circle by Jon Wells was deflected in by Joe Walker. Dragons did come back into the game and Murray made a fine save to prevent an equaliser. Shortly afterwards though Jon Wellsscored from a short corner.

The score went to three-nil following another short corner was saved and before the ball was cleared a reverse stick shot found the goal. I would like to say that it was one of these swipes with a flat stick horizontal to the ground that flew into the roof of the net but in reality it was an old style reverse hit (see any coaching manual from 1960's or 70's that was topped and hence bounced over two defenders sticks before entering the basement of the goal and nestling gently up against the back board.

Half time brought the usual 'start again at nil –nil type talk.

Shortly into the second half Jon Wells scored his second short corner goal which meant that any future short corners would be laid off to a team mate to avoid any chance of a hat trick.

There then followed a strange occurrence when Pete Dolton took the ball into the opposition circle and for once was more Ricky Villa than Ricky Gervais as after eluding several defenders the ball was rolled inside the near post.

The old hands in defence Chris Humphreys and Ian Absolom together with Jordan Ball enabled Murray in goal to have a quiet second half and to save his energy for his wedding anniversary celebration later that evening.

With this win Magpies maintained fourth place in the table as published by East Hockey despite having a 100% record. The reason is that the teams are listed alphabetically. The league will be decided on the percentage of points gained over total possible points. Quite why this is needed when we are scheduled the play the same number of fixtures I have no idea. Please enlighten me.

Harleston Magpies Mens 4ths vs Ipswich 3rds – 2 – 2 Draw

The initial 10 minutes suggested that Magpies were going to be in for a very hard day. Ipswich pressed the young Magpies team back creating various open play opportunities and a series of short corners all of which they failed to convert thanks to the efforts of Blandy, Absalom and Flatt in defence and Man of the match Ross Briggs in goal. Magpies worked through this rocky start and began to gain a bit of possession, even threatening to score through a reverse stick shot by Elliot Ashurst late in the half. The second half started in much the same vein with Ipswich on the front foot pushing for a goal and eventually they broke the deadlock finally beating Briggs with an accurate short corner strike. However, Magpies were now more regularly counter acting and the team responded immediately, winning a short corner which Sam Ashurst converted with a drag flick.

With the game heading towards a draw Magpies were temporarily reduced to 10 men and this just gave Ipswich the room they needed to snatch the lead with only a minute to go. However Magpies didn't give up and a final push found Elliot Ashurst in front of goal who won a short corner on the final whistle. The full team stepped up and on this occasion Sam Ashurst turned provider slipping the ball to Craig Whipps who topped a fine individual display by firing home the equaliser to give Magpies a well deserved point.


James Smith

HMHC Mens 4ths Captain

Harleston Magpies 7th's v Lowestoft Railway 2nd's

With the absence of Dolly, presumed 'lost in action', I volunteered to loosen up my journalistic skills on my keyboard with the heart warming efforts of the most free scoring team at the club. First and foremost not being a bird watcher, the only one I think I saw was a Crow some distance away, or was that the Crowing of Joe Walker before the game, "plenty more of those in the locker". To be fair to him, he weighed in with two goals during a match built up to our toughest test yet. After that Joe did incredibly well at not completing the purchase of a jug of beer.

The game started at a good pace and after 10 minutes we won our first short corner. The now compulsory huddle organised themselves, the ball arrived at Jon Wells who hit/miss hit/passed the ball to the far post, to be met by the flying Walker. 1-0 pies. The 2nd came only 5 or so minutes later through another short corner. This time the ball was hit the way presumably Mr. Wells wanted to hit it in the previous, hit well and true with the helpful deflection off a defenders stick. 2-0. At this point I was standing on the side line thinking it was all going terribly well and was I actually going to get on, but the war cry came from the lips of Bardy and I limbered up......

Having been on for about 10mins another short corner was won. Predictably the ball could not stay away from Jon Wells magnetic personality and arrived at his stick, this time passed to david blackmore who passed straight back to jon and then he passed to the far post, where I had patiently been waiting all along to chip the ball over the line. Remember, good players are always in the right place at the right time! 3-0

With half time fast approaching and Roger Kent resting on the bench, the two young guns Miller and Walker linked up. With a lovely pass from dave b, just beyond my path, the keeper fluffed it, and with him still floundering on the ground, I kept my cool and rounded him to slide a lovely pass to Walker who, although he tried, could not miss the target from 2feet. 4-0 and not long after, half time.

Moments before half time it has to be mentioned that Mike Denham did arrive as promised at 1100. He made his presence known straight away by directing to Stuart Peters that he felt he had found his level! Well Mike, if stu wants to call the 7th team his level, he is more than welcome, especially with goals like he scored today. Collected at the top of the d on the right, hitting an un forgiving shot into the top right, or is that left, or the goal. 5-0.

Goal six and with the visitors tiring, jonny struck again. The keeper couldn't keep his feet together at the ball powerfully broke through.

Compliments must be given to Railway's second half performance, and especially their defender at the back, who just never gave up, and the score would have been greater without him.

Well I am now tired and you are probably bored, so this is the end. Next up for the 7ths- Norwich Dragons 3rds.

Yours, Tom "Magic" Miller

MOCKERY MISERY AT WEYBREAD

The Ladies' 1sts dominated the first half against Ipswich at Weybread last Saturday but after failing to trouble the scoreboard operator one had a horrible feeling that things might go wrong after the resumption as Ipswich just had to get into the game at some point. And things duly went wrong with Ipswich lifting their game and from their one and only penalty corner they took the lead and, after a spirited response from the home side, they scored again in the last minute through ex-Magpie Jess Bloom to make a mockery of the final score. Our team must not be disheartened by this defeat as they again demonstrated their improved form of recent weeks but they will know that upcoming games against St Albans and Dereham now assume even more importance if they are to move clear of the relegation zone.

A couple of hours earlier the day got off to a good start with the Men's 7ths (on whom the sun always shines!) beating Lowestoft Railway 2nds 6-0 to maintain their one hundred percent record but after the Men's 2nds went down 3-1 to Harpenden (in a game they could have won had their penalty corner 'routine' been anywhere near working) the home supporters needed cheering up. It duly came with an excellent win for the Ladies' 2nds against high-flying Lincoln. Lucy Chubbock and Frances Taylor put them two up and after Lincoln threatened a comeback further goals by Tanya Pendreich and Lauren Barber gave them a well-merited 4-1 win. Challenge to the Ladies' 2nds – come on girls it is about time you produced match reports for the website!

We were further cheered when the news came through that the Men's 1sts had secured a vital 4-1 win away to St Albans, last season's East champions, with two goals apiece from Andy Hipwell and Tristan Baynes with St Albans at one stage reduced to eight players. In a match far more even than the score line would suggest the umpires must have remembered to take their yellow cards! Although the Men's 6ths then lost 2-1 to Watton there was a lot to admire from our team and especially the reverse stick goal by young Sam Lyne and an excellent goalkeeping performance by the youthful James Graham.

With a combination of a national league break, the Norfolk league having a week off for half term and the Men's 5ths without a fixture due to the sad withdrawal from the league of Lowestoft Town (I remember tough games against them at Denes Oval in years gone by with the sea mist sweeping in) only six of our teams are in action this Saturday. The Ladies' 2nds and Men's 2nds have centre-stage at Weybread when they take on Ipswich 3rds (12.30) and Long Sutton (2.15) respectively. The Ladies will be looking to build on their win over Lincoln while the Men will be out to take three points off Long Sutton whom they beat 6-3 in a friendly in the middle of September. The Men's 2nds are potentially far too good to be near the bottom of their league so I am expecting a morale boosting win for them on Saturday! Meantime our other teams in action are playing as follows – good luck as always to all our teams.

MENS 3s v Ipswich & ES (L) (A) 2.30   
MENS 4s v Pelicans 2s (L) (A) 3.00   

MENS 6s v Norwich City 5s (L) (H) 4.00 (W)   
MENS 7s v Norwich Dragons 3s (L) (A) 4.30

Congratulations and good luck to Sarah Brook, Will Blyth and Elliot Smith who this weekend are representing the Saxon Tigers U16s in their respective Futures Cup at Cannock. The Futures Cup is designed by the EHB to give promising hockey players (and officials) the opportunity to experience what it is like to take part in a top international hockey tournament and is the culmination of the Junior Regional Performance Centre programme over the last few months.  I hope the HMHC members who narrowly failed to make the final selection will not be too discouraged. I well remember the disappointment felt by Richard 'Ratty' Alexander when he was not selected for the 2001 Junior World Cup in Tasmania. But look at what he has achieved since then!

Congratulations also to Katherine Ridley who recently attended a HiPAC (High Performance Assessment Camp) in Leeds as a member of the U15 Saxon Tigers' squad. 

NB. Please come to the Fireworks Spectacular to be held at the club on Friday 5 November. The gates open at 6.00pm and tickets are on sale at the bar. They are a pound cheaper if bought before the day.

Mike Denham   01603 506925     

MDenham975@aol.com   26/10/10   

LADIES 1s v Ipswich (L) (H) 12.30 (W) 0-2 L
LADIES 2s v Lincoln (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 4-1 W
LADIES 3s/5ths v Broadland (F) (H) 10.45 (S) 3-2 W
LADIES 4s/6ths v Broadland 2s (F) (H) 12.15 (S) 2-3 L
GIRLS Dev. – no game
MENS 1s v St Albans (L) (A) 1.30 4-1 W
MENS 2s v Harpenden (L) (H) 1.45 (S) 1-3 L
MENS 3s v March Town (L) (A) 2.30 3-2 L
MENS 4s v Ipswich 3s (L) (A) 11.00 2-2 D
MENS 5s v Lowestoft Railway (L) (A) 2.30 1-5 L
MENS 6s v Watton (L) (H) 4.00 (W) 1-2 L
MENS 7s v Lowestoft Railway 2s (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 6-0 W
BOYS Dev. – no game

Magpies Take on East Rivals

Magpies take on East rivals Old Loughtonians following their week’s break from league hockey. The other East side was beaten when Magpies triumphed against St Albans 4-1.Whilst St Albans were new to the league , young and inexperienced, this week’s opposition will pose a different threat. The Essex side lost the chance to be promoted on the final day of last season after they had lead the table for most of the season. This season their form has been somewhat mixed with the Essex side sitting one point below Magpies.However their mix of youth and experience is likely to pose a big threat .Harry Martin following his English debut in Delhi is likely to be in the squad.

For Magpies ,Stuart Leate returns to the squad following two games in the seconds.


Team from; Richard Harms;David Ling(Capt);Andy Hipwell;Tristan Baynes;Mark Wheelhouse;Simon Hipwell;Toby Tibbenham;Carl Sitch;Will Martin;Duncan Graves;Richard Gill;Gareth Furlong;James Fanger;Pete Bale;Stuart Leate;Jamie Legg;Calum Callinan

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1sts 0-2 Ipswich

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1st team came away disappointed not to pick up any points after they put in an excellent performance at home to Ipswich. Magpies dominated the first half after the forwards and midfield put the Ipswich defence under pressure throughout, and increasingly became more dangerous in front of goal. Magpies rarely let the ball get through to the Ipswich forwards, who had little opportunity of scoring in the first half. Magpies unfortunately could not capitalise on the possession and came away at half time with a 0-0 score line.

The start of the second half saw Ipswich hit Magpies with an increased tempo and put Magpies under greater pressure for the remainder of the game. The final score line in the end was dictated by one controversial short corner after 54 minutes, which Ipswich put away. Magpies were forced to reorganise on two occasions in the last 15 minutes of the game after two yellow cards were issued to Magpies players. Ipswich sealed their win with a goal in the last few minutes after Magpies took a gamble and pushed players forward in a bid to equalise.

Men's 1st Team
St Albans 1 - 4 Harleston Magpies
23 October 2010

Magpies went into the game against their most local rivals St Albans on the back of a good performance but ultimately disappointing home defeat the previous week against Wimbledon. Pete Bale was welcomed back into the squad after missing the start of the season through work commitments. The opposition are new boys to the league and have gained an early reputation for being determined and well organised without having any star names in their line-up. Magpies knew that they would have to be near their best to take the points back to Norfolk.

Magpies conceded a short corner in the first minute of the match but dealt with it well, after which the majority of the first half passed without significant goal-mouth action. St Albans' deep defence kept Magpies' attacking opportunities to a minimum but also contributed to their own offensive play becoming largely limited to aerial balls into non-threatening wide areas of the pitch. Duncan Graves will be disappointed not to have opened the scoring on 30 minutes when with only the keeper to beat the ball struck his foot, however the deadlock was broken soon afterwards by Magpies forward Andy Hipwell on the stroke of half-time after St Albans captain Cooper was robbed of possession in midfield and Hipwell smartly slotted home from the top of the D.

St Albans started brightly in the second half and their pressure told on 45 minutes when Glenn Webster skilfully found space in midfield and Stephen Friend expertly deflected in the resulting cross. Magpies could have easily found themselves behind in a frantic 5 minute spell during which St Albans hit the post and keeper Harms made a sharp low save to keep the scores level. After Magpies composed themselves, they were denied themselves by the woodwork via a brave defender on the line from a short-corner on 55 minutes.

In league where there appears to be little to choose between most sides, small lapses in concentration or discipline can decide games, and so it proved to be when on 60 minutes St Albans had a player sent-off for hitting the ball away at a Magpies free hit. This was quickly followed by two further St Albans yellow cards, one for dissent and the other for a stick-tackle on Andy Hipwell. The latter led to a penalty stroke to Magpies.

In the previous week's game Tristan Baynes had his stroke in the last few minutes of the game well saved by the Wimbledon keeper, however he had no hesitation in stepping up again and slotted home nervelessly to give Magpies the lead. Magpies took full advantage of their opposition being reduced to 8 men and when Baynes capped a man-of-the-match performance by scoring again after being fed by Toby Tibbenham with only 5 minutes left on the clock the points were secure. Andy Hipwell rounded things off just before full time by firing in from close range after more tenacious work by Tibbenham.

The three-goal winning margin was flattering to Magpies in a game that for so long could have gone either way. St Albans will no doubt prove to be a stiff test for most opposition teams this season, particularly at home, however Magpies had stuck to their game-plan to the letter and in the end their better discipline probably won them the points.

Magpies have no game next weekend before playing Old Loughtonians at Weybread on Sunday November 7th at 2.15pm.

Harleston Magpies Mens 4ths vs North Walsham 3 - 0 Win

Finally a well deserved win for Magpies youngsters but it was old head Stuart Peters who broke the deadlock when Giles Flatt initial shot was saved but the rebound fell kindly to Peters who flicked the ball home. The second half saw Magpies start cautiously but slowly they found their passing rhythm resulting in Matthew Judge and Mitchell Tomkins scoring their first league goals for the club and earning Magpies their first league points. The final goal the pick of the bunch when Mitchell Tomkins completed a flowing move which saw Matt Judge, James Smith , Charlie Blandy and Josh Fitzgerald transfer the attack from the left to the right in a matter of seconds and open up a gap in the North Walsham defence for Mitchell to complete the score line.


James Smith

HMHC Mens 4ths Captain

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES 1 WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies sponsored by Kitchen Sense of Harleston are at home this Saturday in a local derby game against Ipswich starting at 12.30.

After a poor start to the season losing to the current League leaders Chelmsford and Surbiton in their opening games, Magpies are slowly turning things round. An excellent performance away at Horsham where they were unlucky to lose a very tight game 1-0 was the beginning of some good performances. Two weeks ago a 1-1 draw against Old Loughtonians at home kicked started the season with a point. Last week winning 2-0 away against Cambridge City was just the result the team needed. The defence was very tight giving Cambridge very few chances and denying them any penalty corners. Jess Howland scored her first National League goal and Frances Sumner added to it with a penalty corner.

Following a win last week Ipswich have moved up into 3rd place in the League one point behind the leaders, so Magpies know this will be a tough game. From Magpies point of view it is to maintain their performance levels of the last few weeks and continue to improve. They need to get points wherever they can to climb the table

This week sees the return of Catherine Cranmer and Emily Wilford to the squad which will give the team more flexibility in making changes.


SQUAD FROM:

Louisa Greenacre (Capt), Charlotte Lee-Smith, France Sumner, Lucy Fields, Katrina Warnes, Debbie Francis, Charlotte Harrison, Ellie Bale, Charlotte Catalano, Verity Blyth, Jess Howland,

Bryony Lund, Catherine Cranmer, Emily Wilford and Krista Hopkinson.

East League Division 2N

Harleston Magipes III 6 vs  Market Deeping 4

At half time the score line between Harleston Magpies III and Market Deeping was rather harsh on the home team, in that they trailed by 3 goals to 1. Will Blythe, the scorer of the Harleston goal, and his fellow forwards had created many chances which on another day would see the score line reversed; they had hit the post, the crossbar and seen several balls bounce agonisingly away from simple tap ins. The hardy Harleston support would have been pleased with the efforts but at the same time worried how the second half would pan out against their previously unbeaten opposition - they needn’t have worried!

The second half began with a bang when Gus Carpenter found the top corner of the net, and despite Market Deeping temporarily restoring their 2 goal lead, the home side were not deterred. Back they came with goals from Gavin Cole, Sam Moore and 2 by man of the match Angus Bloomfield. The energy produced by all 12 home players had really taken its toll on their opposition and has given Magpies a tantalising glimpse of how close they are to being a top of the table side!

Magpies Take on East Rivals

Magpies take on East rivals St Albans following the Norfolk side’s fine team performance in their seven goal thriller with Wimbledon. Whilst disappointed to lose in the final minutes this was a thrilling game of hockey which was a credit to both sides and impartial observers felt a draw would have been a fair result. The London side were a good all round side , the best seen at Weybread this season,and are likely to finish at the top of the table.

St Albans promoted this season from the East Premier league sit just below Magpies in the table but will be a difficult side to beat.Magpies now in their second season back in the league should have gained enough experience from their time at this level to overcome the newcomers. If they can repeat their performance of last week then three points will be on their way back to Magpies.

Pete Bale, unable to play in recent weeks ,is now available and is added to the squad.

Team from; Richard Harms;David Ling(Capt);Andy Hipwell;Tristan Baynes;Mark Wheelhouse;Simon Hipwell;Toby Tibbenham;Carl Sitch;Will Martin;Duncan Graves;Richard Gill;Gareth Furlong;James Fanger.Jamie Legg;Pete Bale.

Harleston Lions, Harleston Scouts and Harleston Magpies Hockey Club are promising another night to remember with their annual fireworks display at Magpies Hockey Club on Friday 5th November.

Once again Fantastic Fireworks will be providing a professional fireworks display set to music under clear, crisp night skies (we hope!) alongside a BBQ, street organ and other attractions so please come along hungry and enjoy an evening of excitement and fun!

On the night gates open at 6.00pm and the bonfire will be lit at 7.00pm with the Fantastic Fireworks show commencing once the fire has died down at 7.30pm.

We are delighted to have secured Fantastic Fireworks’ services for what this year will be a very busy weekend of firework parties.  Over the last 15 years they have provided this event with displays of the highest quality and we are sure of another rousing performance this year.  As winners of the first British Fireworks Championship and the current Guinness World Record holders for launching 56,645 rockets in 30 seconds their reputation for fireworks is second to none.

Tickets will be available on the night at £6 for adults and £4 for children (between ages 5 and 16) or in advance until 12 noon on Thursday 4 November at £5/£3 respectively from Kitchen Sense, Jacksons Fruiterers, The Card and Party Shop and Wiskers Pet Shop in Harleston or directly from Harleston Scouts and the Hockey Club.  Parking is plentiful and free!

Finally, our thanks go to everyone who supports this event in whatever way and we hope to see as many of you as possible at Harleston Magpies Hockey Club on FRIDAY 5TH NOVEMBER for a true family bonfire night and professional fireworks display helping raise much needed funds for Harleston Scouts, Lions and Hockey Club.

Magpies Ladies 4s 0-0 Norwich Dragons Ladies 3s

Magpies, with a different team to the previous weeks hosted Dragons 3s, but were still hoping to continue their successive wins and stay top of the table. It was evenly matched for the first few minutes but then Magpies stepped up the pressure, and the rest of the game was spent in Dragons' half, with the Magpies defence remaining largely untroubled. Despite taking a pounding from Magpies' midfield and forwards, numerous saves from the Dragons keeper kept the opposition in the game, and Magpies were unlucky not to get the goal they deserved. The 4s stay top table having picked up the point, with league action resuming in 3 weeks time.

Kristina Erith

Magpies Ladies 4s

Magpies Ladies 3s 4-3 Dereham Ladies 3s

Magpies hosted Dereham looking to bounce back after last weeks disappointing loss, but didn't get the start they wanted, going 1-0 down in the first few minutes. Magpies took a while to retaliate, but got a goal courtesy of Krystal Bishop, before Dereham again stepped up their game and put Magpies 3-1 down. Some good team work and persistence led to Magpies getting a goal back as Kira Wooltorton slipped it past the keeper just before half time, going into the break losing 3-2. The second half saw Magpies really take charge, and Wooltorton and Bishop got another goal each, ending in a win to Magpies and some much needed points. League action resumes in 3 weeks time, after a friendly and a week break.

Kristina Erith

Magpies Ladies 3s

Saturday 16 October
LADIES 1s v Cambridge City (L) (A) 12.30 2-0 W
LADIES 2s v Cambridge City 2s (L) (A) 2.00 2-2 D
LADIES 3s v Dereham 3s (L) (H) 12.30 (W) 4-3 W
LADIES 4s v Norwich Dragon 3s (L) (H) 4.00 (W) 0-0 D
LADIES 5s v Pelicans 3s (L) (A) 12.00 5-1 W
LADIES 6s v Herlings (L) (A) 2.00 1-2 L
GIRLS Dev. v North Walsham (L) (A) 11.30 5-2 W
MENS 2s v Letchworth (L) (A) 1.30 3-3 W
MENS 3s v Market Deeping (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 6-4 W
MENS 4s v North Walsham (L) (H) 10.45 (S) 3-0 W
MENS 5s v Norwich City 3s (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 3-1 W
MENS 6s v Norwich City 4s (L) (A) 11.30 1-9 L
MENS 7s v Norwich City 6s (L) (A) 1.00 11-3 W
BOYS Dev. v Norwich City (L) (A) 10.00 1-4 L
Sunday 17 October
MENS 1s v Wimbledon (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 3-4 L
Norwich Minis - U10 Boys (2nd), U12 Boys 'A' (2nd), U12 Boys 'B' (4th)

Harleston Magpies 3 – 4 Wimbledon

"Harleston denied points after enthralling game"

The game opened up with both teams playing attacking hockey leading to play flowing from end to end. Magpies penetrated first as Andy Hipwell forced the Wimbledon defender into an error. Hipwell then calmly lifted the ball over the advancing goalie putting the home side into a 1-0 lead. Magpies were now brimming with confidence, applying pressure onto the back line of Wimbledon but they could not make their chances pay. Wimbledon still carried a threat going forward and managed to get one back making it 1-1 with a well worked move. The two sides continued to compete hard through midfield with each side still showing attaching threat. Scores were even at half time.

The second half was full of incident. Like the first half there was an early goal. Wimbledon worked the ball down the magpies left before entering the Dee and scoring from close range making it 1-2. This was a big blow for magpies so early in the half but they continued to fight hard to retain a foot hold in the game. As the half went on Harleston came back into it. It was Duncan Graves who found space at the top of the Dee to shot low into the bottom corner bringing Magpies back onto the level terms. Harleston raised their game again and were rewarded when Simon Hipwell found James Fanger free at the back post to score making it 3-2 with 15 minutes remaining. Wimbledon came again and quickly levelled at 3-3. Harleston then straight away responded as they won a short corner. This was bravely blocked by a Wimbledon defender on the line resulting in penalty stroke to Magpies. The Wimbledon goalkeeper pulled off a good save keeping the scores at 3-3. With only minutes left this enthralling game had a final twist which saw the away side cut the Harleston defence open before scoring from close range to win the game 3-4 denying magpies of any points.

Pelicans 3rds 1 Magpies 5ths 5

Magpies travelled to Kings Lynn to play Pelicans 3rds hoping to build on their win last week and gain another three points. Magpies applied nearly constant pressure in the first half but even after having numerous penalty corners were unable to break the deadlock until five minutes before half time. Catherine Kilbourn swept in a cross from the right to give the away team a deserved lead. More or less immediately a rare defensive error saw Pelicans draw level with a well taken goal.

The second half saw Magpies become much more clinical in their finishing and goals followed at regular intervals through Katherine Ridley, Saffron Wilford, Kelsey Horlock and Karen Ray. Although Pelicans looked dangerous on the break in the second half Magpies thoroughly deserved their win.

Harleston Magpies fielded two U12 teams at the Norwich City tournament coming 2nd and 4th.

A Team : Josh Butler (GK), Kieran Peters, Will Hall, Sol Barker, Jolyon Summers, Archie Winter, Jonty Hershel-Shorland and Tristan Hipper

B Team : Freddie Dixon (GK), Matt Bensly, Cameron Woodcock, Myles King, Will Simpson, Will Donsworth, Max King and Jack Hobbs

Magpies B pushed most teams hard but failed to capitalise on lots of possession in the early games and maybe didn’t get as many wins as their performances warranted. They did manage two wins against Pelicans B 3-0 and Dragons 2-0. However, they pushed eventual winners Pelicans A all the way only losing to 2 very late goals having defended really well throughput the match.

Magpies A started confidently winning their first three games comfortably before being held to a 0-0 draw by the B team! The match of the day was against Pelican A’s and Magpies, despite not playing their best hockey, were unlucky to have a goal disallowed. With time running out they conceded their only goal of the tournament to go 1-0 down. Magpies continued to push but couldn’t find an equaliser. They quickly put the disappointment of this result behind them to win the remaining three games scoring 17 without conceding!

Magpies man of the tournament was Freddie Dixon, the B team goalkeeper, who made a number of great saves throughout the day having already played for the U10’s.

Harleston Magpies U10 came a creditable 2nd in the first tournament of the season at Norwich City.

Team : Freddie Dixon (GK), Jude Potruff, Seth Read, Max Warde-Aldam, Joshua Mayhew, Callum Oakes, Todd Chapman, Sam King and Charlie Whyte

The first game was against Watton and despite plenty of possession Magpies failed to score so the 0-0 draw didn’t fully reflect all their hard work. Second up was Norwich who had a very strong side and ran out comfortable 3-0 winners but Freddie in goal made a number of fine saves to keep City at bay until the last couple of minutes. The final game was against Dereham and Magpies dominated from start to finish but this time managed to apply the final touch and won 6-0 with Callum and Josh both scoring hat-tricks. Overall, an excellent first outing, especially given most were playing their first tournament.

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1sts 2-0 Cambridge City

Harleston Ladies 1st team won their first game of the season 2-0 away to Cambridge City. Magpies produced an all round excellent team performance to pick up a vital 3 points, which takes them out of the bottom two in the table. Magpies started the game sprightly, with excellent movement from forwards Verity Blyth, Lucy Fields and Krista Hopkinson which put the Cambridge defence under constant pressure from the start. Magpies continued to build on the previous weeks good performance and took control of the game from the outset. Cambridge had several breaks in the first half, but solid defending from Katrina Warnes, Louisa Greenacre and Bryony Lund prevented anything coming from the attacks. Charlotte Lee-Smith in goal was only called upon on a couple of occasions to clear any attempt made on goal.

Magpies pressure and hard work was rewarded after 23 minutes when Jess Howland's pace up front broke through the Cambridge back line, resulting in her first ever National League goal. The shot was superbly executed from a narrow angle, hitting the inside of the far post before going in. Ten minutes later, Debbie Francis won Magpies their first short corner of the game with some sharp stick work in the circle. Frances Sumner converted the penalty corner shot to put Magpies 2-0 up just before half time. In the second half Magpies continued to dominate the possession, with Charlotte Harrison and Ellie Bale causing Cambridge problems down the left and right flanks throughout. Magpies can be encouraged by their progress being made each game and will be looking to continue building as they host a tough fixture at home to next Saturday.

Magpies 6th XI vs Herlings

Our league match against Herlings was played on a grass pitch which always keeps you on your toes, wondering which way the ball is going to bounce next. Jessica Harvey made her debut as our goalkeeper and played extremely well. Herlings were quite a tough team and used to a grass pitch yet play was evenly spread. They scored the first goal followed a second from a short corner.

During the second half, a number of things happened. Katie Webb scored a goal from a short corner taken by Natasha Stead. Rosie Chubbock made some fine runs and tackles, as did Vanessa Vigrass. Everyone passed and played really well. However, during a Herlings corner, Karen Hunt took a facial injury and left the pitch. With only nine players and four minutes to go, the whole of the Herlings team came down for a short corner. Did we deflect the ball away from the goal? Of course we did!

Score: 1 – 2

Joanna Meyer

Harleston Magpies 1 - 4 Norwich City

Team : Jordan Wiseman (GK), Bertie Blandy, Tom Byrne, Milo Cawkwell, William Hunt, Ed Martin, Jack Frere-Smith, Jack Newbery, Jack Grimsley, Jack Cullis, Tristan Hipper. Toby McManus, Andy Hipper & Richard Hunt

Magpies boys travelled to Taverham to play Norwich City in the development league. The final score perhaps flatters City but on balance they were the stronger side. Both teams started brightly and the first half was an even affair with both sides playing some good passing hockey. Magpies struggled to get the final ball into the opposition D and consequently there were few chances to speak of until the end of the first half when City scored two goals, one from a short corner and one from open play. At half time it was still all to play for.

CIty added a third after the break as Magpies pushed forward (at times rather too far) in an attempt to score. Tom Byrne pulled the score back to 3-1 with a cleanly struck shot from the top of the D but City scored a further goal to close out the game. All of the Magpies players worked hard but it was a day when things just did not quite click. The result was probably the right one although the encounter was more even than the score line suggests.

Harleston Magpies 7th 6 Norfolk Nomads 1st 0

Taking seriously the captain's midweek text exhorting that the team be prepared mentally and physically for he game the Magpies pre-match preparation was thorough and meticulous, so much so that there were ten Magpies ready to play at the agreed starting time and others on their way.

Nomads did come into the game with a similar record to Magpies of two wins from two matches- was this to be an early season six pointer?

Magpies soon settled into their passing game and dominated possession. Three goals came in the first half including two from Jon Wells.

The occasional Nomads attacks were well defended by Rat Dad and David Brooks such that Murray would have been able to concentrate on his accounts for much of the first half.

An observer unused to watching this team would have been impressed with the constant switching of positions and might put this down all team members being aware of everyone else's tactical responsibilities and a finely tuned team ethic whereas in reality it is merely a fine example of chaos theory.

A highlight of the second half was an interpassing move between Jon Wells and Roger Kent which ended with the former completing his hat trick. An unkind thought would be that Roger had lost control of the ball and was fortunate it ended up on the end of Jon's stick. But as I said that is being unkind.

The other highlight was a Crossbill that flew south to north over the pitch giving its characteristic chip chip call note.

Nomads did force a short corner but this was cleared ensuring that Magpies have still a zero in the goals against column.

A late goal ensured that there was a Federer like score line 6- 0.

Thanks again for Graham Ramm (and Mark Legg) for umpiring and for explaining the new Respect code before the start of the game. Pity Roger Kent was late arriving and didn't find out about it until later.

We now expect another text prior to next week putting us on our mettle and urging sobriety and dedication throughout the week.



Harleston Magpies Vets 6 Norwich City Vets 3.

Magpies progressed through with a comfortable win against Norwich. The game was notable for 4 goals from Jon Aldridge and not much else.

Norwich did take the chances that came their way well with Jon Kidner getting two either side of an enforced sabbatical.



Norwich City 6ths 3 Harleston Magpies 7ths 11.

Harleston will be well disappointed that their previously unblemished goals against column now has the number three in it. I could at this point say that Chris Humphreys was making his first appearance of the season but in case you draw a false conclusion from the last two sentences I won't.

However the 'goals for' total is now a healthy 31 after 4 league games.

Norwich were certainly better than other opponents faced so far this season by this made Magpies work that bit harder which paid dividends. Joe Walker scored two goals including one from a very narrow angle before he had to leave early to attend a wedding –probably not his own, Roger Kent poached three, Jon Wells struck home two short corners and even Simon Bardwell netted -deflecting in a superb pass from Roger Kent. I'm sorry I'll write that again in case you missed it first time 'deflecting in a superb pass from Roger Kent.'

This week's ornithological highlight was a flock of 15 Fieldfares passing over in the second half.

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES 1 WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies sponsored by Kitchen Sense of Harleston are away this Saturday when they play Cambridge City starting at 12.30. Magpies finally recorded their first League point of the season in a very hard fought match against Old Loughtonians and this will give the team the lift that they need. For the last two weeks the team have raised their level of performance considerably and they need to maintain this standard week in and week out. Magpies now know that they are in for a long hard season but they have enough experienced players to ensure they can pull out of a difficult situation.

The match this week is the sort of game where they need a result to stop Cambridge City pulling away from them in the League. Games against Cambridge last season and in a pre season friendly have always been very tight matches and there is no reason to suggest that this game will be any different.

Magpies will be without Catherine Cranmer and Emily Wilford. They also received another set back this week when Jas Bartlett who was working her way back to fitness after an injury is now out for several weeks after cracking a finger in a school match. As a result Tania Pendreich has been called up to the squad for the first time.


SQUAD
Louisa Greenacre (Capt), Charlotte Lee-Smith, France Sumner, Lucy Fields, Katrina Warnes, Debbie Francis, Charlotte Harrison, Ellie Bale, Charlotte Catalano, Verity Blyth, Jess Howland, Tania Pendreich, Bryony Lund and Krista Hopkinson.

Yarmouth 2nds 0 Magpies Ladies 5ths 6

Ladies 5ths travelled to Yarmouth for the second time this season (having already won 4 - 1 in a friendly) hoping to pick up their first win. Magpies pressurised from the start and in a stunning 10 minute spell Catherine Kilbourn completed her hat trick after good work from Jemina Jacobs on the right. 3 - 0 was the score with Yarmouth rarely threatening.

Magpies controlled the second half with Georgia Pearson playing a dominant role. Three further goals were added from Alice Bamber, Kelsey Horlock and Jemima Jacobs.

Magpies Return Home

Magpies were unable to overcome the challenges set before them at the weekend when they went down 1-3 to league leaders Indian Gymkhana in a scrappy game played on a pitch resembling Yarmouth beach. The Indians have adapted their game to their pitch, and although a side who are unlikely to maintain their top position in the league, will certainly prove difficult to beat at home. Whilst Magpies have adapted their style to counteract most situations this game proved one step too far in the development of the squad.

This weekend Magpies have a different challenge. Wimbledon, with or without their full complement of International stars drawn from a number of countries ,will push Magpies to the limits. It will be suprising if they are not in the top two at the end of the season. Whilst the London side sits on the same points as Magpies they appear to be getting their team play together and last weekend beat St Albans 5-2.

Magpies will be selecting from a full squad at last with Pete Bale available following a heavy work schedule. Magpies relish a challenge and with a large crowd encouraging every move the players will respond and the squad is likely to be back to its best following the disappointing team display at Gymkhana..

Team from; Richard Harms;David Ling(Capt);Andy Hipwell;Tristan Baynes;Mark Wheelhouse;Simon Hipwell;Toby Tibbenham;Carl Sitch;Will Martin;Callum Callinan;Duncan Graves;Ben Wright;Richard Gill;Stuart Leate;Gareth Furlong;James Fanger.Jamie Legg;Pete Bale.

East Hockey Leagues Division 2N

Harelston Magpies III XI Vs Bourne 1 XI

Never change a winning team; A good philosophy but harder to put into practice. After last weeks encouraging home win for Harleston Magpies, only 5 players were able to make them selves available for the away trip to Bourne. New faces included Giles Flatt and Luke Nauton making strong third team league debuts and Angus Bloomfield on his way back through the teams after breaking his thumb.

Although the result of the match was ultimately decided by two early Bourne goals there was much to be encouraged by, as the visitors battled hard to get back into the match. Chances came, and when George Moore got Magpies on the score sheet it looked as though a repeat of last weeks comeback was on. However as the match played out Magpies lost Ewan Cumming to a nasty looking head injury requiring they finished the game with only 10 players. The resultant re-shuffle left the risk of Bourne breakaway goals and unfortunately 3 minutes before time the scoring was completed from close range to disappoint the travelling side.

Harleston Magpies 5 – 5 Pelicans

Team:
Jordan Wiseman (GK), Jack Heydon, Jack Frere-Smith, Bertie Blandy, Harry Murton, William Hunt, Toby McManus, Tristan Hipper, Jack Newbery, Jack Grimsley Soloman Barker, Archie Winter & Kieran Peters

Harleston entertained Pelicans in the boys development league fielding a very youthful team against much older opposition. Pelicans dominated the opening exchanges, forcing Jordan Wiseman to make a number of excellent saves to keep Magpies in the game. Then, against the run of play, Magpies took the lead when Kieran Peters scored from a well struck short-corner. This spurred Pelicans on and, despite further saves from Jordan, their centre-forward scored three goals. With a rout on the cards Magpies dug deep with William Hunt outstanding in midfield and Jack Frere-Smith managed to score a second goal from another short-corner. Half-time score 2-3.

The second half was a much tighter affair with Magpies grabbing the initiative right from the start when more good work from William Hunt saw Kieran coolly slot his second goal under the advancing keeper. Magpies then enjoyed their best spell of the game and took the lead when a quick counter-attack resulted in Archie Winter scoring. Pelicans then restored their lead with two quick goals but again Magpies fought back and equalised through Tristan Hipper after another surging run by Hunt. With only minutes remaining both sides went close to winning the game but both keepers made good saves and, in the end, a draw was a fair result.

Magpies Ladies 3s 0-2 Panthers

Magpies hosted Panthers for an early push back, looking for another victory to follow on from last week. The first quarter was very evenly contested, both sides making some good runs and passes, and both had chances, but it was Panthers who broke the deadlock. Magpies seemed to drop their heads for the rest of the half, but still held out to go into the break 0-1 down. Coming back out Magpies again started strong, putting some pressure on the opposition, but Panthers broke well from their defensive end and gained a short corner, which was saved by Magpies, but the ball was kept near the Magpies goal. A succession of short corners followed and inevitably led to another Panthers goal. The last 20 minutes were ferociously fought out between the sides, and Magpies were unlucky not to get a consolation goal. Next week Magpies host Dereham 3s, for a lunch time push back, and hope to gain some much needed points.

Kristina Erith

Magpies Ladies 3s

Indian Gymkhana Men's 1st 3 – 1 Harleston Magpies Men's 1st

Harleston started brightly, seeing lots of the ball but creating little as Indian Gym had all their team camped in their own half. It was however Indian Gym who looked most likely to break the dead lock as with their quick counter attacking hockey created chances giving a few early warning signs for Harleston defence. Mid-way through the half Indian Gym broke away to win a short corner which with a well worked corner routine they scored to make it 1-0 to the home side. Harleston responded well to going a goal down with a good 10 minute spell but the chances came and went with none being taken. As half time approached Gym regained their control over the game and went in 1 – 0 up.

After the break it was once again Indian gym who waiting for the Harleston error before counter attacking quickly. Indian Gym struck first again increasing their lead to 2 – 0. This resulted in Harleston having to chase the game playing even further into the hands of gyms counter attacking hockey. However magpies managed to find a lifeline with Gareth Furlong converting for a short corner. Harleston worked hard trying to find a second but this was not their day as attack after attack broke down leaving Harleston man of the match Richard Harms exposed to more gym chances. The game was finally put out of Magpies reach with a couple of minutes to go when gym convert one of their break a ways with a superb piece of individual skill before converting past Harms. Final score Indian Gym 3 Harleston Magpies 1.

Saturday 9 October
LADIES 1s v Old Loughtonians (L) (H) 12.30(W) 1-1 D
LADIES 2s v Wisbech Town (L) (H) 1.45 (S) 0-5 L
LADIES 3s v Panthers (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 0-2 L
LADIES 4s v Reepham (L) (A) 5.30 3-1 W
LADIES 5s v Yarmouth 2s (L) (A) 1.00 6-0 W
LADIES 6s v Norwich City 4s (L) (A) 4.00 0-2 L
GIRLS Dev. v Norwich City (L) (H) 12.15 (S) 2-3 L
MENS 1s v Indian Gymkhana (L) (A) 2.00 1-3 L
MENS 2s v Cambridge Nomads (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 4-2 W
MENS 3s v Bourne (L) (A 13.00 1-3 L
MENS 4s v Sudbury (L) (A) 12.45 0-5 L
MENS 5s v Norwich Dragons 2s (L) (A) 15.00 3-3 D
MENS 6s v Sudbury 4s (L) (H) 3.15 (S) 3-1 W
MENS 7s v Norfolk Nomads (L) (H) 4.00 (W) 6-0 W
BOYS Dev. v Pelicans (L) (H) 10.45 (S) 5-5 D
Sunday 10 October
Men’s Vets v Norwich City (EHB Cup) (H) 12.30 6-3 W

The girls faced their toughest match of the season so far playing Norwich City. Norwich looked a strong team from the beginning taking a very early lead with a good shot from a short corner just passing the keeper allowing them to take the first goal.. Magpies started a little shabbily but soon began to make headway with some nice passing between Kara KIlbourn and Sophie Long eventually producing an equaliser from Sophie.

Norwich pushed on breaking through our defence to score again. Katie Crawford defended the Magpies half very well but was unable to prevent another goal by this strong Norwich team bringing the score up to 3.1. During the second half our keeper Lucie Gooch made a fantastic save and kicked the ball clear of our goal. A run up the pitch from Kara with a good pass over to Sophie Meynall-Anderson brought the eventual score to 3-2 to Norwich City. Our first loss, but all good experience for this new team.

Ladies 6th Team match report

Magpies 6th XI vs Norwich City 4

Our away match at Taverham was played in fine weather. Norwich City 4 were a team of young, fit girls who had excellent passing skills and rarely missed a ball. Needless to say, our goalkeeper, Kristina Erith, had a tough time but managed brilliantly to fend the ball away. Towards the end of the first half, however, Norwich City scored from a pass across the D to a handy person waiting beside the goal.

During the second half, Norwich City still had the upper hand yet didn't use the width; they seemed to favour the left hand side. Our backs played with courage despite Karen Hunt being injured. Daphne Beckett and Jo Meyer stopped a goal each whilst Kristina Erith flung herself to the ground. Jodie Guest made some fine runs. After a successive number of short corners, Norwich City scored a second goal.

Score: 0-2



Joanna Meyer

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1sts 1-1 Old Loughtonians

Harleston Ladies 1st team broke their run defeats with a highly deserved draw at home to Old Loughts, picking up their first point of the season in a hard fought match. Magpies had their best performance so far with the team working well as a unit with excellent pressure from forwards through to defence, with Bryony Lund, Katrina Warnes and Louisa Greenacre producing good performances at the back. The first half Magpies enjoyed the majority of the possession and were rewarded after 27 minutes when Frances Sumner's short corner strike took a deflection into the corner. Magpies were unfortunate not to go 2-0 up just before half time after Charlotte Harrison's shot went wide of the keeper.

The second half forced Magpies to dig deep as Old Loughts converted a penalty corner in the first 5 minutes of the half. Magpies stepped up the pressure with Debbie Francis constantly pressing from midfield, which often provided Magpies with a quick release to the forwards. Magpies were forced to reorganise after going down to 10 players in two spells after yellow cards were awarded to Magpies players in the second half. Magpies however, managed to absorb the pressure well and the opposition only occasionally broke through, with Charlotte Lee-Smith pulling off an impressive one on one save to keep Magpies in the game at a key point in the 2nd half. Overall, this was an excellent team performance from the Ladies who will be looking to pick up their first win next Saturday away to Cambridge.

Reepham 1 - 3 Magpies Ladies IV

Magpies were looking to make it three league wins out of three as they travelled to Taverham to play Reepham in an early evening push back.

Right from the first whistle the opening exchanges set the scene for the whole seventy minutes of play; hard, fast-paced and open. It was Magpies who took the early initiative, winning a short corner, and when a Laura Schultheiss shot was stopped unfairly on the line a penalty flick was awarded. Rosie Blackmore bravely stepped up, and keeping her composure she cooly slotted the ball into the corner to give the away side the lead. Reepham then enjoyed a spell of possession in the Magpies defensive third, but couldn't break through. And midway through the half Blackmore got her and Magpies second, her persistence in the D paying off when she picked up a rebound and doubled Magpies advantage. Kay Dennis made it 3 for the away side shortly before half time, finding herself one on one with the 'keeper and slotting the ball through her legs.

The second half saw Reepham get a goal back when Magpies lost the ball on the forward line and were punished as Reepham pushed to get back in the game. The home side continued to press forward, and it was Magpies captain and 'keeper Kristina Erith who kept Magpies in it on several occasions. Magpies couldn't find their rhythm of the first half but battled hard to protect their lead with the defence outstanding in their effort and commitment; Gina Scott, Megg Eglington, Claire Snelling, and fourth team debutantes Katie Mound and Beth Absolon putting in fine performances.

A deserved three points for Magpies, continuing their briiliant start to the league campaign - a massive well done to all 12 players involved! Bring on next week!



Kay Dennis, Ladies Magpies 4th's.

Harleston Magpies Mens 4ths vs Gorleston - 1-3 Lost

Against the run of play Harleston Magpies 4ths opened the scoring through a short corner converted by Josh Fitzgerald with a crisply struck reverse stick shot. However in the second half Gorleston's consistent pressure lead to a deserved equaliser following which Gorleston capitalised on this momentum and added the winning goals. Despite a steady start to the league season Magpies youngsters can take great heart from their last two performances and with a full squad available this weekend and continued hard work at training positive results should not be far away.

Charlie Blandy and Luke Naunton both impressed in the heart of Magpies defence again this week with good solid performances.

James Smith

HMHC Mens 4ths Captain

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies sponsored by Kitchen Sense of Harleston play Old Loughtonians at home this Saturday starting at 12.30. Last weekend Magpies produced their best performance of the season away at Horsham and were unfortunate not to come away with a point and went very close in the final minutes to equalising from a penalty corner. Each game this season the performance has improved but as yet they have nothing to show for it.

Old Loughtonians were also struggling but a 4-0 home win last week against Dereham has seen them pick up their first points of the season. Old Loughtonians are in 7th position followed by St Albans, Harleston Magpies and Dereham.

Magpies need to reproduce last weeks performance and attitude as well as make the most of home advantage. Creating and taking chances this season will be the priority and is the area they continue to work on at training. They just need a good result to kick start their season.

This weekend Magpies will be without Catherine Cranmer and Emily Wilford, whilst Jess Howland returns to the squad. Jas Bartlett could also be back if she recovers from her injury.


Squad: Louisa Greenacre (Capt), Charlotte Lee-Smith, Charlotte Catalano, Katrina Warnes, Debbie Francis, Frances Sumner, Bryony Lund, Charlotte Harrison, Crista Hopkinson, Ellie Bale, Verity Blyth, Lucy Fields, Jess Howland and Jas Bartlett.

Ladies 5ths 1 Pelicans 2nds 1

Having lost last weeks first League fixture 2 - 0 to Magpies 4ths, the 5ths were trying to secure their first points of the season with this home clash against Pelicans 2nds. Ladies 5ths had to battle hard from the start to finish to gain the draw. Frankie Eaves dominated midfield and had her best game of the season. Magpies scored their goal at the end of the first half when Georgina Minta on her debut finished off a flowing move by sweeping the ball into the Pelicans goal. Pelicans applied pressure and deservedly equalised. Some good goalkeeping from Ellie O`Sullivan ensured that Magpies did not concede again.