All matches postponed due to the bad weather.

Magpies Take on Second Placed Holcombe

Magpies got their season back on track with a fine 10-0 home victory against Sevenoaks. Whilst the visitors were bottom of the league, they had recently recruited four new players, and were certainly up for the fight. Some will write off this win as an easy one against a poor side, but this was not so. Following their 8-1 reversal at Bromley the previous week this win came as a result of a hard week’s training, a squad totally focussed on the task ahead resulting in a fine performance by all the players.

This week Magpies take on second placed Holcombe. Whilst Holcombe have scored few goals considering the position they are in, their defensive record is the best in the league,letting in only ten in nine games.Their team containing a number of internationals is well drilled and looks to ex GB international David Mathews for goals, scoring ten of which seven have been from corners. It is likely to be an interesting game with Magpies style of play contrasting to the visitors.

Whilst the older experienced players had fine games it was very encouraging to see the form of a number of the younger players last weekend. Gareth Furlong and Ben Wright bagged a brace each and Jamie Legg, having his best game of the season, acted as a good provider and was unlucky not to be on the scoresheet.

Whilst Stuart Leate is unavailable the squad is likely to remain the same and they will need to repeat last weekend’s form to get anything out of this game.

Team from; Richard Harms;David Ling(Capt);Andy Hipwell;Tristan Baynes;Mark Wheelhouse;Simon Hipwell;Toby Tibbenham;Will Martin;Jamie Legg;Richard Gill;Gareth Furlong;James Fanger;Pete Bale;Ben Wright;Marc Lloyd.

BOUNCEBACKABILITY!

From 8-1 down to 10-0 up the next week – whatever did the management of the Men's 1sts say to the squad between the games? Whatever it was I suggest they say it before every game! But joking aside the players would not have needed reminding that their performance against Bromley & Beckenham left something to be desired and with two early goals by Tristan Baynes against Sevenoaks on Saturday their rare lapse of six days before was a thing of the past.

Three up at half time two early strikes after the break made victory certain with the mazy dribble and shot by Ben Wright the pick of the second half goals – even beating Simon Hipwell's reverse stick shot into an empty net! Seven second half goals conceded against B&B and seven second half goals scored against Sevenoaks – what a difference! However, a far sterner test awaits the squad at Weybread this Sunday (2.15) when in their last game until Sunday 6 February they take on high flying Holcombe who beat us 1-0 earlier in the season. 

Meantime in a generally good day for the club at an initially foggy Weybread the Ladies' 3rds did well to come from behind to record their four successive win beating Lowestoft Railway 4-3; the Ladies' 4ths gained their third victory on the trot beating Pelicans 2nds to maintain their league leadership and the Men's 5ths gained a comfortable 6-0 victory over Ipswich 4ths. The 'crowd' for this game, which featured goals by Chris Thornton (3), Roger Kent, Joel Nelson and Deben Nelson, had risen to five by the second half with young Miss Hayward proving she had mastered the cry of 'Daddy, Daddy'! Earlier the Men's 3rds had gone down 4-0 to Cambridge City 3rds after matching their opponents in the opening 20 minutes while the Ladies' 5ths dropped points for only the third time this season by drawing 2-2 with Reepham.

Away from home the Men's 2nds played some of their best hockey of the season drawing 2-2 at Wisbech after being denied victory by a late penalty stroke following goals by David Francis and Angus Bloomfield; the Ladies' 2nds left their comeback against Saffron Walden a little too late going down by the odd goal in nine; the Ladies' 6ths won again beating Hornets 3-2 and at Sevenoaks on Sunday the Ladies' 1sts suffered a narrow defeat going down 2-1 with Emma Lee-Smith scoring for the first time since her very recent return to the club.   

We have another full programme of matches this weekend (weather permitting bearing in mind the forecast) when the club will be fielding 21 teams. On Saturday the Ladies' 2nds and Men's 2nds have centre-stage at Weybread when they entertain Watton (12.30) and Norwich City (2.15) respectively while the Ladies' 1sts have a really tough match away to league leaders Surbiton (12.00) and the Ladies' 3rds are away to table-topping Broadland (11.30). Good luck to all our teams (please see the website for the full list of fixtures) including five of our youth squads including the U18 Girls who are at home to Pelicans in their EHB Cup clash on Sunday (11.45) before the Men's 1sts play Holcombe. 

Congratulations to –

·         Richard Allcock and Grace on the birth of Noah on Wednesday 10 November.  

·         Sarah Brook, Will Blyth and Elliot Smith on being selected, following their good performances in the winning Saxon Tigers' teams in the recent U16 Futures Cups, by the EHB for "further assessment for consideration for the National Age Group Squads".

Other comments in brief –

·         A belated 'thank you' to Shirley and Nick McAllen for all the work they did to ensure that HMHC was re-awarded EHB's ClubsFirst Accreditation in October. For more information about this important status please see the website or page 49 of the handbook.

·         A 'thank you' also to Andrew Longe for replacing the blown floodlight lamp (bulb to me) on the water-based pitch – a job he has kindly been doing since 1990 when the club built its first artificial grass pitch. In case you are wondering Andrew doesn't have to climb up the columns – they are brought down by a machine!

·         It is good to see spectators watching our matches and equally good to see them in the clubhouse where they are always welcome before and after matches for a drink and chat at the bar – or at the kitchen end! 

Mike Denham   01603 506925    

MDenham975@aol.com   23/11/10   

Saturday 20 November
LADIES 2s v Saffron Walden (L) (A) 12.00 4-5 L
LADIES 3s v Lowestoft Railway (L) (H) 12.15 (W) 4-3 W
LADIES 4s v Pelicans 2s (L) (H) 12.15 (S) 3-1 W
LADIES 5s v Reepham (L) (H) 10.45 (S) 2-2 D
LADIES 6s v Hornets (L) (A) 10.30 3-2 W
GIRLS Dev. v Yarmouth (L) (A) 10.00 1-1 D
MENS 1s v Sevenoaks (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 10-0 W
MENS 2s v Wisbech Town (L) (A) 2.30 2-2 D
MENS 3s v Cambridge City 3s (L) (H) 1.45 (S) 0-4 L
MENS 4s v Thetford Town (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 1-1 D
MENS 5s v Ipswich 4s (L) (H) 4.00 (W) 6-0 W
MENS 6s v Sudbury 3s (L) (A) 11.15 1-4 L
MENS 7s v Norfolk Nomads 2s (L) (H) 3.15 (S) 3-0 W (W/O)
BOYS Dev. – no game
Sunday 21 November
LADIES 1s v Sevenoaks (L) (A) 2.00 1-2 L
U10 Boys Minis (HMHC) Magpies 3rd and 5th
U12 Boys Minis (HMHC) Magpies 1st and 5th

Harleston Magpies Vs Sevenoaks 10 – 0


"Harleston bounce back by hitting Sevenoaks for ten"

Harleston Magpies welcomed Sevenoaks to Shotford Heath following a disappointing result away at Bromley & Beckenham the previous week.

It was a misty day down at Shotford Heath as the two sides prepared to do battle. Harleston started brightly immediately putting Sevenoaks onto the back foot. This soon led to chances for the home team and it was only a matter of time before a goal would come. Tristan Baynes opened the scoring only four minutes in as the ball was worked to him with space in the Sevenoaks Dee, Baynes then calmly slotted past the flailing Sevenoaks goalkeeper. On eight minutes Baynes doubled his tally, as well as his teams making it 2-0 following a penalty corner. Following the early goals Harleston continued to move the ball well as their confidence was now boasted. Sevenoaks had their own periods of possession but could not penetrate the Harleston Dee due to good defending from the home side. Harleston continued to look dangerous in attack winning a number of penalty corners throughout the first half. With only 10 minutes of the first half remaining Magpies extended their lead further as Gareth Furlong scored from a penalty corner. This made it 3-0 to the home side as they went into the break.

The second period started brightly with both sides knowing the next goal was all important in the game. Sevenoaks pushed up throwing men forward. Harleston's defence stood firm with an outstanding performance from man of the match Richard Gill assisted well by Mark Wheelhouse and David Ling meaning Richard Harms was rarely troubled all afternoon. The next goal came in the shape of Ben Wright who rounded two defenders before slotting the ball past the advancing goalkeeper making it 4-0 to the home side. In the 40 minute Gareth Furlong made it 5-0 with his second penalty corner of the game. Harleston started to turn the screw on Sevenoaks even though they continued to attack magpies still without fashioning any open play chances. Magpies kept passing the ball as they had all game. On 47minutes Andrew Hipwell broke clear through only to be thwarted by the Sevenoaks keeper but Simon Hipwell was fastest to react striking the ball home with a reverse stick shot. Tristan Baynes made it 7-0 following a broken down penalty corner which Baynes found himself in space enough to produce a blockbusting reverse stick shot which riffled the ball high into the Sevenoaks goal sealing his hat-trick in style. Harleston were still hungry for more goals and continued to put pressure on Sevenoaks. On 54 minutes the tireless Toby Tibenham broke clear rounded the goalkeeper before scoring making it 8-0. Ben Wright then got his second of the game firing home Harleston's ninth goal. Andrew Hipwell then got in on the act making it 10-0 when a well worked goal started from deep in Magpies own half resulted in Hipwell stroking the ball past the diving Sevenoaks keeper. This was an outstanding performance from Harleston but despite the score line Sevenoaks did make Harleston work hard for each and every goal.

Ladies 5th played out a 2-2 draw with Reepham - although it felt more like a win coming back from 2 goals down. Magpies started brightly and had the better of the early exchanges but were unable to convert their chances. Reepham always looked dangerous on the break and scored against the run of play just before half time. The second half saw Reepham start the strongest and they deservedly took a 2-0 lead. With Laura Davidson playing really well in defence Magpies started to apply pressure and Shirley McAllen converted a penalty corner. Georgina Minta then applied the final touch to a free hit to draw level. Magpies continued to press but could not find the winner.

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1sts 1-2 Sevenoaks

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1st team narrowly missed out on picking up a point in their tough away fixture to Sevenoaks on Sunday. The ladies knew that this was going to be a hard fought game with Sevenoaks sitting comfortably in the top four of the league.

The first half of the match was end to end with both sides breaking quickly from midfield and having numerous opportunities in front of goal. Emma Lee-Smith's pace and skill caused the Sevenoaks defence problems throughout and was inches away from scoring on several of occasions. Emily Wilford and Verity Blyth up front were quick to close the Sevenoaks defence down and were almost rewarded half way through the first half when Wilford's shot from a narrow angle almost went in. Sevenoaks however, always looked dangerous on the break and were rewarded with their first goal seven minutes before half time after they took a quick free hit from just outside of the circle.

Sevenoaks came out after half time and hit Magpies hard, going 2-0 up in the first couple of minutes through a short corner conversion. The next 5 minutes Magpies had to absorb considerable pressure from the Sevenoaks forwards and had to pull out some important tackles and good saves from Charlotte Lee-Smith in goal to keep Magpies in the game. Magpies began to fight back and produced some excellent passages of play which resulted in them looking more and more dangerous in front of goal. Emma Lee-Smith was rewarded with a well deserved goal after 42 minutes after she converted a short corner with clinical precision into the bottom left corner of the goal. For the remainder of the match Magpies desperately continued to push forward to try and gain the equaliser, however Sevenoaks defended well and denied Magpies a well deserved point.

Harleston Magpies Ladies 6th XI Match report.

Fixture: Magpies vs Hornets

We played Hornets away at Loddon on a very foggy morning. They were quite a tough team with some fast players who didn't easily give up the ball once it was in their possession. However, during the first half, we kept possession of the ball and our passing skills were accurate and fast. The first goal came from Vanessa Vigrass who took a shot from the edge of the D. The second came from Dominique, who made her debut, by smashing the ball home from a short corner. Hornets swiftly retaliated by scoring at point blank range.

A knowledgeable spectator advised us to stop dawdling with our free hits. We took his advice but were beginning to tire and Hornets seemed to be gaining the upper hand. With play being fairly even, Vanessa Vigrass managed to score yet again, which gave us a boost. Loddon then had a series of short corners and scored a second goal. At one point, there were about six of us all standing in the goal mouth stopping pot shots. Still, we won and that's what counts.

Score: Harleston 3 Hornets 2



Joanna Meyer

Magpies 2s vs. Saffron Walden

Magpies started the first half brightly, attacking well down the right hand side. Saffron Walden equally matched magpies and scored from their first attack of the match after a lucky deflection. Magpies then responded quickly with a well executed short corner slipped left, with Lauren Barber deflecting the ball in on the near post.

Saffron Walden then pushed ahead scoring two more goals after some sloppy defending. Magpies were unlucky not to score again in the first half after a spell of positive attacking play by Krystal Bishop, Lucy Chubbock and Keira Booty. The forward line was fed well by some cracking balls into the D by Frances Taylor, Melissa Hunter and Lizzie Jones. In the dying moments of the first half Magpies were saved from going further behind after a fantastic goal line clearance from Micayla Tootill.

Magpies came out fighting in the second half and were rewarded with a quick goal after Krystal Bishop flicked the ball calmly over the logged keeper. A very strong Saffron Walden attack continued to put the Magpies' defence under a lot of pressure. Flora Marfleet made some excellent saves in goal but unfortunately the team conceded two more goals before mounting their comeback!

A change in formation led to some more confident attacking hockey from Magpies with increased numbers upfront. The team then won another short corner (only their 3rd of the game). The first few shots were blocked by the keeper but persistent strong play resulted in a well deserved goal from Krista Hopkinson. With Magpies now full of self-belief they proved the game wasn't over yet and produced some of their best hockey of the match. A superb cross from Lucy Chubbock on the right found Keira Booty on the far post who slotted the ball home in emphatic fashion. Unfortunately this was Magpies last attack of the match as the final whistle blew moments later. Final score: 5-4 to Saffron Walden.

This was a match that both teams can be truly proud of providing some entertaining hockey for the dedicated supporters.



Player of the match was awarded to Micayla Tootill.

Magpies Ladies IV 3 - 1 Pelicans II


Top of the table Magpies knew they faced a hard challenge against this week's opposition Pelicans, in a midday push back at Weybread.

Magpies were unbeaten in the league this season coming into this game, and the first few minutes saw them make the best possible start when a good ball through from Roo Barker found Kay Dennis one on one with the 'keeper to slot home to give Magpies an early lead. This proved important for Magpies as the pace of the match was fast, with the play being somewhat nervy, and the home side unable to find their confident, flowing play from recent weeks. However, Magpies held on to take their lead into half time.

The second half saw Pelicans push for an equaliser and Magpies had to defend well to protect their lead; Katie Mound, Ginny Crawford, Megg Eglington, Sarah Legg and Claire Snelling battling hard for Magpies, tirelessly tackling and clearing the ball away. Much of Magpies forward play was on the counter attack with Roo Barker on the left wing making some tremendous solo runs into the D and was unfortunate not to find an end product on several occasions. Magpies efforts were rewarded midway through the half though when Barker got her deserved goal, beating the 'keeper and putting the ball in the corner. However, Pelicans were not going to give up, and after successive short corners they got a goal back, a terrific strike straight from the top of the D. Magpies continued to defend for their lives, with Hannah Booty, Rosie Blackmore and Treacle Snelling in the midfield working hard chasing back, and coming forward to support the attacking play. And only minutes from the final whistle, Kay Dennis pounced on some disorganisation in the Pelicans D to pick up a loose ball to score her second goal and make the game safe.

It certainly wasn't Magpies' best performance but it was certainly a deserved victory to keep them top of Division One.


Kay Dennis, Magpies Ladies 4th's.

We have entertained Harleston sides twice over the past 2 years. Last year our U14 boys beat Magpies in the cup and on Sunday we lost 4 - 3 in the U16 boys cup competition. Your travelling parents were very pleasant and supportive on both occasions. A real credit to Harleston. Please pass on my thanks to Stuart and the travelling supporters.

Regards
Paul Flynn
Saffron Walden

Harleston Magpies 3 Norfolk Nomads 0

Saturday 20th November

Rather in the manner of Haye against Harrison, Magpies won this game without a blow struck in anger.

Nomads are able to limit Magpies to their lowest goals for in a game this season by conceding the game. I just hope other teams do not find out this tactic.

Harleston Magpies Ladies 6th team match report

Our match against Norwich City 5 was played under floodlights. Norwich swiftly scored the first goal from a cross to a player waiting to push the ball home. This galvanised us into action and Jodie Guest dribbled the ball along Norwich's back line and neatly scored. Shortly afterwards, Katie Webb smashed the ball home from a short corner taken by Natasha Stead, not once, but twice! During the first half, however, Norwich scored again from point blank range whilst our defenders were resting on their laurels.

So during the second half, we aimed to mark Norwich's fast forwards, although they did manage to score again. However, we were one step ahead and Katie Webb scored a hat-trick from another short corner. Play was fast and furious and some fine runs were made by Jodie Guest (voted player of the match) and Charlie Copsey. Karen Hunt provided a solid defence and Jessica Harvey, our goalkeeper, was a star. Vanessa Vigrass scored the final goal from an angled shot at the edge of the D.

Fixture: Magpies 6th XI vs Norwich City 5th XI

Score: 5 – 3


Joanna Meyer

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies are away on Sunday this week against Sevenoaks starting at 2.00pm. The home win last week against Dereham was essential and those three points see Magpies move up two places in the League and it will hopefully boost the confidence of the forwards as they put four goals away. Ironically Magpies have probably played better in games they have lost this season but the bottom line was all about the result.

Whilst Magpies have not lost to any of the other four teams in the relegation zone this season they will need to pick up points against higher placed teams if they want to pull away from the wrong end of the League. Sevenoaks away this week and League leaders Surbiton away the following week are two very difficult matches but Magpies have to have a go at these quality teams.

It is unlikely that Emma Lee-Smith will play this week because of work but she made her mark last week on her comeback match.

SQUAD: Louisa Greenacre (capt), Charlotte Lee-Smith, Katrina Warnes, Bryony Lund, Catherine Cranmer, Ellie Bale, Charlotte Harrison, Krista Hopkinson, Debbie Francis, Frances Sumner, Emily Wilford, Verity Blyth, Jess Howland and Lucy Fields.

Magpies Face Revitalised Sevenoaks
Magpies suffered an away defeat last weekend against Bromley and Beckenham.The scoreline of 8-1 does not do justice to a Magpies side who controlled the first half going into the break having secured a number of corners but trailing by a single goal. On the resumption Magpies went further behind but pulled one back before over committing and conceding four in a ten minute period.

This week’s visitors sit at the bottom of the table with just one win to their credit and including a 12-1 loss to league leaders Southgate. Since the week’s break Sevenoaks have signed four new players to help their cause, two from Premier League East Grinstead.The side that visits Magpies this weekend is likely to be a much revitalised side who narrowly lost to Old Lougtonians last weekend.

Magpies continue to be without Carl Sitch and Duncan Graves and rely on the same squad which has played so well throughout the season.

Team from; Richard Harms;David Ling(Capt);Andy Hipwell;Tristan Baynes;Mark Wheelhouse;Simon Hipwell;Toby Tibbenham;Will Martin;Jamie Legg;Richard Gill;Gareth Furlong;James Fanger;Pete Bale;Stuart Leate;Ben Wright;Marc Lloyd;Dan Legg.

Division 2N

Norwich Dragons 1st XI, 3 - Harleston Magpies 3rd XI, 4

Despite playing good hockey, Harleston Magpies Men’s 3rd XI had only secured one point from the previous nine available. So the omens for success away from home against, second in the table, Norwich Dragons may not have been good.

The younger Magpies team started the stronger with Gavin Cole sweeping in the first goal of the game. However this was soon cancelled out as Magpies continued to look good with the ball, but not so good without it. With James Stacey returning to midfield a period of stability followed, and although Magpies’ took another lead that they could not hold they ended the half on top when endeavour down the right hand side lead to Toby Hughes latching onto an Elliot Smith pass.

The second half was to be a real end to end affair as Dragons pressed hard. On another day their third equaliser may have decided the game, but from a saved short corner Gavin Cole was able to complete his hat-trick and give his team a welcome win.

Excellent Saturday, Sunday not so good

Last weekend was one of contrasts with the Ladies' 1sts headlining a string of outstanding results for the club on Saturday with their vital bottom-of-the-table win over Dereham and the Men's 1sts going down to a heavy defeat away to Bromley & Beckenham on Sunday.

The very welcome return to the club of Emma Lee-Smith was an enormous boost to the Ladies in their must-win game with Dereham and coming on from the bench Emma (who it is hoped will be free to play a few more times this season) soon showed her customary class and drive. However, with the game still goalless at half time, despite almost continuous Magpies' pressure, the loyal home crowd was getting increasingly tense. But with two fine goals by Lucy Fields, her first national league strikes, with Emma closely involved in the build-up to both, the mood soon changed leading to a good 4-1 win with further goals by Emily Wilford and Jess Howland and a move of two places up the league.

Another notable performance on Saturday was the recovery of the Men's 2nds from 4-2 down to a 5-4 win over Peterborough 2nds who were let down by their ill-discipline which twice saw them reduced to nine players leading to a red card in the closing minutes. A little later the Men's 6ths snatched a last second equaliser to draw 4-4 with IES 3rds with the goal coming (his second of the game) from skipper Kevin Ridley who to the merriment of his fans on the touchline was wearing what looked like tights! The vital pass to Kevin was delivered in "Arnold Muhren-type fashion" according to the modest and self-effacing Simon Bardwell recalling his Portman Road visits of yesteryear.  Simon can also make an excellent curry but he tells me he will not risk the judgement of Indian Gymkhana when they pay a visit to play the Vets on Sunday 5 December!

Nine of our teams won on Saturday and three drew with just one losing and then only in the closing stages. Three players scored hat tricks with Gavin Cole leading the way in the Men's 3rds splendid 4-3 win over high flying Norwich Dragons, Duncan Cogdell did likewise while scoring his first goals for the club in the Men's 4ths very welcome 4-1 win over Sudbury 2nds and William Hunt weighed in with three for the Boys Development in their 4-0 win over Norwich Dragons/Watton with Kieran Peters also on the score sheet. Meantime the Ladies' 5ths recorded their fifth successive win while there were also wins for the Ladies' 3rds, 4ths and 6ths and good draws for the Men's 5ths and the Girls' Development.

The blow of the Men's 1sts losing heavily on Sunday after a good first half was softened somewhat by EHB Cup wins for the U16 Boys and U18 Girls (including a hat trick by Emily Wilford who also scored four times for her school team on Saturday!) while the U14 Girls drew with Pelicans in their East League match before an easy win over a generally younger and smaller Norwich City side. The U16 Girls eventually lost 4-1 to a strong Ipswich side after an encouraging opening spell.

The Men's 1sts will be looking to put last Sunday's result behind them when they entertain Sevenoaks this Saturday (2.15) in a match which is now even more important while the Ladies' 1sts travel, by coincidence, to Sevenoaks on Sunday (2.00) looking to build on the eight points they have gained in their last five matches. Meantime the Ladies' 2nds are away to Saffron Walden (12.00) hoping to get back to winning ways while the Men's 2nds, who have moved up their league with three successive wins,  are away to Wisbech (2.30) who are just ahead of them. Good luck as always to all our teams in action this weekend – please see the Home Page of the website for the full programme – including the U10/U12 Boys in the HMHC Minis at Weybread on Sunday (9.30).

News and comments in brief  

·         The Youth Committee's annual tombola is being held this Saturday so please come along to try your luck. A chance to win some Christmas presents?!

·         The Netherlands have seen off England's bid to stage the 2014 FIH Men's and Women's World Cups which will be held in The Hague between 2-15 June.

·         The FIH has also announced that their Players of the Year for 2010 are Australia's Jamie Dwyer ( he also won in 2004, 2007 and 2009) and Luciana Aymar of Argentina who has now won the award seven times!

·         The ferrets are returning by popular demand! Please note your diary for the Live Ferret Racing and Bangers & Mash Night to be held in the clubhouse at 7.30pm on Saturday 4 December. 

·         If you are between 18 and 25 on 1 January 2011 and would like to be considered for the role of  a 'ball person' (not my term!) at the London Olympics please go to www.englandhockey.co.uk for more details.

Mike Denham   01603 506925   

MDenham975@aol.com   16/11/10   

Saffron Walden 3 – 4 Harleston Magpies

Magpies travelled to Saffron Walden in the second round of the U16 cup and came away with a hard fought victory. Within the first minute Magpies had taken the lead from a short-corner when Elliott Smith scored with a superb drag flick into the top right hand corner of the goal. Sensing an easy victory Magpies lost their shape allowing Saffron Walden to equalise and then take a 2-1 lead. This prompted a slight tactical change in the team with Mitchell Tompkins dropping into an unfamiliar defensive position but it immediately paid dividends with Magpies regaining their shape and then enjoying a long period of possession. This pressure finally told when Will Blyth scored with a well struck shot which the Walden keeper couldn’t reach having already made two fine saves.

The second half started with both sides turning over possession but as the half progressed Magpies started to exert greater pressure on the Walden defence with the Walden keeper often single-handedly keeping Magpies at bay. Eventually, Magpies got their third goal when Gavin Kiernan reacted fastest to a loose ball in the circle and bundled the ball over the line. The fourth quickly followed when Tom Graham ran on to an Elliott Smith aerial and slotted the ball past the advancing keeper. However, Walden showed their fighting qualities and grabbed a third goal to ensure a tense final 9-minutes. However, Magpies remained composed keeping possession of the ball for long periods to close out the game.

Squad: Felix Trash (GK), Dominic Absolon, Barnaby Carless, Gavin Kiernan, Mitchell Tompkins, Tom Graham, Will Blyth, Tom Ridley, Elliott Smith, James Bensly, Elliott Ashurst & Matthew Judge.

This was a game of high quality played out competitively but fairly and was credit to both clubs. Magpies reward is an away trip to local rivals Pelicans on the 28th November.

Harleston Magpies 4 – 0 Watton / Dragons

Magpies made a strong start to the game enjoying plenty of early possession. The took the lead when Kieran Peters coolly finished after good attacking play down the left wing. The solid pairing of Tom Byrne and Jack Heydon in midfield allowed William Hunt the freedom to push forward. He was eventually rewarded with a goal when following up a rebound after the opposition keeper made a fine save. Half-time score 2-0 to Magpies.

The second half saw Magpies continue to dominate possession and continue to create many goal-scoring opportunities. The sporadic breaks from Watton were quickly smothered out by strong tackling from Bertie Blandy and Harry Murton and, when they were finally beaten, Jordan in goal made one very good save to keep the clean sheet intact. Magpies finally scored two more goals, both from William Hunt, to make the final score 4-0. All the players put in strong performances with Jack Newbery having a very good game at right wing.

Bromley & Beckenham Mens 1st Vs Harleston Magpies Mens 1st 8 – 1

Harleston travelled away to Bromley with high hopes of picking up points on their travels.

Harleston started slowly allowing the home side to take charge in the game. This soon lead to Bromley taking a 1 – 0 lead after good work down there left hand side. Harleston soon recovered from the early set back, working hard to stop the Bromley threat whilst also creating short corner opportunities. The first half flowed from end to end with both side having their own short period in control of the game. Harleston went into the break 1-0 down.

After half time magpies again started slowly and following sloppy defending Alan Butt scored from a penalty corner. Harleston fought straight back through Gareth Furlong making it 2-1. Bromley forwards were now starting to stretch their legs as Harleston pushed up. Next goal was all important in the game but it was the home side who found space down there right wing before cutting in forcing Richard Harms to save well only for the ball to fall kindly for the Bromley forward to score with the goal gapping. Bromley were now 3 -1 up but Harleston continued to work hard but took more risks throwing more men forward.

The away side were still creating goal scoring chances but were unable to take these. Bromley were now finding lots of space on the break thus setting the pattern for the rest of the game as suddenly Bromley started taking every chance created. Alan Butt scored his second of the game making it 4 – 1. William Nurse then made it 5 – 1 from a penalty corner. Sam Driver made it 6 – 1 in the 59th minute.

Bromley's seventh goal was well worked as they broke from their own half passing the ball like a knife through butter past the magpie's defenders. Then Simon Evans passed the ball into the empty net making it 7-1. On the stroke of full time Bromley had a penalty corner which following a save from Harms Rob Farrington was able to stroke the ball home making the final score 8 – 1.

SUDBURY U18 GIRLS 0 HARLESTON MAGPIES U18 GIRLS 4

Harleston MagpiesU18 Girls produced a very clinical performance to move safely into the next round. Magpies started tentatively but after Emily Wilford put Magpies in front after four minutes they grew in confidence and never looked back as they dominated the first half.

The result was based on a very solid defensive performance in the first half when Sudbury found it very hard to break down a defence of Sophie Moore, Amy Brook, Micayla Tootill and Lucy Chubbock with Flora Marfleet having little to do in goal.

As soon as Magpies won back possession they moved the ball quickly through the midfield of Charlotte Catalano, Tania Pendreich, Laura Tibbenham and Verity Blyth. Emily completed her hatrick with further goals after 20 and 25 minutes. Hannah Linger also went close with a couple of chances. Verity Blyth completed the scoring after 32 minutes to make it 4-0 at half time.

The second half saw Magpies fail to add to their score as the performance level went a little flat and the Sudbury goalkeeper made a few useful saves from penalty corners. Two Under 16 players Rachel Herod and |Rosie Chubbock made their debuts for the Under 18s.

The next round of the Under 18 Cup takes place on Sunday November 28th.

Saturday 13 November
LADIES 1s v Dereham (L) (H) 12.30 (W) 4-1 W
LADIES 2s v Norwich Dragons (L) (H) 1.45 (S) 2-3 L
LADIES 3s v Norwich City 2s (L) (A) 2.30 2-1 W
LADIES 4s v UEA 2s (L) (A) 11.30 4-1 W
LADIES 5s v Norwich City 3s (L) (A) 4.00 3-1 W
LADIES 6s v Norwich City 5s (L) (H) 4.00 (W) 5-3 W
GIRLS Dev. v Pelicans (L) (A) 10.30 1-1 D
MENS 2s v City of Peterborough 2s (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 5-4 W
MENS 3s v Norwich Dragons (L) (A) 3.00 4-3 W
MENS 4s v Sudbury 2s (L) (A) 2.15 4-1 W
MENS 5s v Holt Harlequins (L) (A) 4.30 0-0 D
MENS 6s v IES 3s (L) (H) 3.15 (S) 4-4 D
MENS 7s – no game (North Walsham 4s withdrawn from league)
BOYS Dev. v Norwich Dragons/Watton (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 4-0 W
Sunday 14 November
MENS 1s v Bromley & Beckenham (L) (A) 1.00 1-8 L
U14 Girls (East League at HMHC) v Pelicans 1-1 D,
v Norwich City 10-0 W, Norwich City 0 v Pelicans 10
U16 Girls (EHB Cup) v Ipswich (H) 1.00 (W) 1-4 L
U18 Girls (EHB Cup) v Sudbury (A) 1.15 4-0 W
U16 Boys (EHB Cup) v Saffron Walden (A) 4-3W
U18 Boys (EHB Cup) v Old Loughtonians (A) 1.00 W/O TO OLS

Ladies 5th travelled to Taverham for a late start against Norwich City 3rds and recorded their fourth consecutive win and climb to 2nd in the Division One Table. With Janet Brown unavailable Molly Alexander stepped in to play sweeper and grew in confidence throughout the game. In an even first half Magpies took the lead from a Catherine Kilbourn trademark goal swept into the far corner. Paris Wood (on her debut), Alice Bamber and Lisa Dobson in midfield all worked very hard. Karen Ray in defence coped admirably with a tricky opponent. Playing good passing hockey at pace Magpies scored two more in the second half with Catherine getting her second and Rosie Chubbosk showing her skill for the third. Norwich scored a consolation late goal for Magpies to run out 3 - 1 winners.

Magpies Girls played and hosted their first games in the Under 14 East Section against Pelicans and Norwich City.

In a very tight first game v Pelicans the game finished 1-1 with Pelicans canceling out an early first half goal from Lily Felton.

Magpies second game against Norwich City resulted in a very convincing 10-0 win. Goal scorers were Saffron Wilford 4, Lily Felton 2, Kira Wooltorton 2, Charlotte Knight-Dixon 1, Kara Kilbourn 1

On Sunday 28th Nov Magpies travel to Peterbourgh to play their final group games needing two wins to finish top of their East League Section.

Team;- Kira Wooltorton capt, Ellie O'Sullivan Gk, Imogen Craig, Molly Fuller, May Bowden, Harriet Underdown, Saffron Wilford, Sophie Long, Charlotte Knight-Dixon, Kara Kilbourn, Lily Felton, Nicole Eaves

Ladies 2nds vs Norwich Dragons

This 4th vs 5th in the table grudge match proved to be as tough as expected. Dragons started strongly but couldn't convert their early chances with the solid defence of Amy Brook and Micayla Tootill keeping them under control. This was until Magpies conceded a short-corner, which Dragons converted in less than clinical fashion. The Magpies forwards of Tania Pendreich and Lucy Chubbock worked hard and pressed high to create chances for Kiera Booty and Krystal Bishop, who was unlucky not to score on a couple of occasions. However the equalising goal came from a cleanly struck short-corner by Melissa Hunter. This gave Magpies the momentum, and a 2nd goal quickly followed after some excellent play down the left by Lauren Barber to set up Lucy Chubbock, who calmly lifted the ball over the diving keeper. Magpies went into half time 2-1 up and feeling positive.

After the break Dragons piled on the pressure and equalised from a well worked short-corner. After this, the midfield of Charlotte Catalano, Siobhan Wooltorton, Sarah Brook and Frances Taylor worked hard to create a pretty even game. Magpies were lucky to escape still-level after Dragons converted another short-corner, which was thankfully disallowed. Birthday girl Holly Baker then helped to create a short-corner at the other end which sadly magpies failed to convert. Dragons, making the most of the free space, then counter-attacked and a goal-line scramble unfortunately saw the ball sneak past goalie Flora Marfleet who had had a solid game up until then. This left Magpies 3-2 down with 2 minutes to go, Magpies threw everything they could at Dragons but were unable to convert their possession into goals. A very good team performance left Magpies unfortunate to lose such a closely fought game. Credit goes to captain Melissa Hunter, who was awarded Man-of-the-Match for her efforts in both defence and attack. The team hope for a better result next week, when the still improving team travel to Saffron Walden.



Words by Amy Brook.

Harleston Magpies Ladies 6th team match report

Our match against Norwich City 5 was played under floodlights. Norwich swiftly scored the first goal from a cross to a player waiting to push the ball home. This galvanised us into action and Jodie Guest dribbled the ball along Norwich's back line and neatly scored. Shortly afterwards, Katie Webb smashed the ball home from a short corner taken by Natasha Stead, not once, but twice! During the first half, however, Norwich scored again from point blank range whilst our defenders were resting on their laurels.

So during the second half, we aimed to mark Norwich's fast forwards, although they did manage to score again. However, we were one step ahead and Katie Webb scored a hat-trick from another short corner. Play was fast and furious and some fine runs were made by Jodie Guest (voted player of the match) and Charlie Copsey. Karen Hunt provided a solid defence and Jessica Harvey, our goalkeeper, was a star. Vanessa Vigrass scored the final goal from an angled shot at the edge of the D.

Fixture: Magpies 6th XI vs Norwich City 5th XI

Score: 5 – 3



Joanna Meyer

Magpies lost a high quality under 16 game to a very strong Ipswich side which included 3 England squad players. Magpies started the stronger and the midfield of Sarah Brook, Jess Howland and Lizzie Jones were controlling the game. However, the home side forwards were unable to convert several good chances. Ipswich scored with the last touch of the 1st half to leave the Magpies girls a bit deflated at half time. Ipswich extended their lead from a short corner 5 minutes into the 2nd half. Magpies hit back, though with a penalty stroke by Sarah Brook after Holly Baker was fouled when trying to score. The game then became exciting and stretched as Magpies looked for an equaliser. In the last 5 minutes Ipswich scored 2 more goals to run out winners by 4 goals to 1. Credit must go to an outstanding display in defence by Georgia Pearson and goalkeeper Sophie Warner. Krystal Bishop was the pick of our forwards and was unlucky not to get more reward for her effort.  The scoreline flattered them somewhat but there was no doubt the stronger team had won. It was just a pity that 2 good sides were drawn against each other so early in the competition. Magpies will now go into the Plate competition.

Saturday 13th November 2010

Magpies Mens 2nd 5 vs City of Peterborough 2nd 4

Off the back of two wins Magpies were looking to make it a third this week against a reasonable outfit from Peterborough. Magpies started the game well with some good forward movement resulting in some early chances to take the lead. The deadlock was broken when Pete Bale slotted home from close range. A second came from Sam Moore at the back post following a short corner. Peterborough then suddenly found some form and before half time were in the lead with four goals to magpies two. The second half brought out some interesting decisions leading to two Peterborough players being sidelined for some dreadful tackling. Magpies decided to try to take advantage of this with some powerful forward play with Robbie Kinsella being influential in this. Moving forward at pace Magpies got a goal from Lawrence Baynes and another followed shortly to draw the teams level. At this point Magpies were in the driving seat and were really pushing forward to secure a win. A penalty stroke awarded to Magpies gave Martin Fields the opportunity to put the home side into the lead which he duly converted. A red card for a Peterborough player saw them down to ten men for the remainder of the game and now in the lead with ten minutes to play Magpies saw out the game and take a well earned three points. This was another victory for manager Iain Cumming who is battling with a few injuries and man of the match went to Martin Fields.

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1sts 4-1 Dereham

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1st team picked up a vital 3 points at home against Dereham on Saturday. Magpies knew this was going to be a tough local derby with both teams desperate to pick up points at the bottom of the table. Magpies win has taken them up two places in the league to 7th, and most importantly, out of the relegation zone. Magpies entered into half time with a goalless draw, with all five goals being scored in the 2nd half. In the first half Magpies were producing many scoring opportunities however they were unable to convert any. The Dereham keeper made some excellent saves to keep them in the game. Magpies came back out after half time and dominated the 2nd half, going three goals up in under 10 minutes. Lucy Fields calmly converted her first goal with a well worked one on one with the keeper 46 minutes into the game. Five minutes later, Debbie Francis put a superb ball through to Emma Lee-Smith who beat several players before setting up Lucy Fields with her 2nd goal. Emily Wilford then quickly put the game beyond the reach of Dereham with a third goal after 54 minutes. Dereham continued to battle hard throughout the game and were rewarded with a goal from Georgina Edwards after 61 minutes. Jess Howland sealed a Magpies victory one minute before the end of the match. Next weekend Magpies face a tough fixture away to Sevenoaks.

The girls took a trek up to Kings Lynn to play Pelicans this week. They looked fairly solid during the first half, passing accurately and using the space well with some lovely passing going on between Harriet Underdown, Emily McCluskey and Kara Kilbourn we managed to secure a first half goal with Kara finishing off well to score.

Harriet Underdown took a super shot at goal from a short corner which was saved by a very capable keeper! Pelicans pushed forward a few times but were stopped by some super defending from Sophie Meynall-Anderson and Beatrice Flatt who swept a couple of potential goals away.

Pelicans came out fighting in the second half playing a very attacking game. A ball through to their mid field lead to a super run up and a show down between a forward and our goalie Lucie Gooch, unfortunately it slipped in past the keeper bringing the final score to 1-1, a shame as we had many chances but they had a fantastic keeper and try as they might the winning goal eluded the girls.

UEA II 1 - 4 Magpies Ladies IV

Magpies were hoping their good form would continue as they faced UEA, with the away side looking to stay at the top of Division One.

In a repeat of last week, Magpies didn't start well, with UEA looking fast and sharp, commanding the play in the opening minutes. And for the first time this season, Magpies went a goal down; early on in the half, a deflected shot lifted straight at a UEA player's stick, ending with the ball flying into the top of the goal, with the Magpies' 'keeper unable to do anything to stop it. This seemed to be the catalyst Magpies needed and they battled hard to find the equaliser, with Rosie Blackmore and Hannah Booty in the middle for Magpies putting in stellar performances. The away side were rewarded for their efforts near the end of the half, when a good cross in from the right wing found Kay Dennis well-positioned to slot the ball past the 'keeper.

Magpies came out for the second half knowing they were more than capable of winning the match, and piled pressure on the UEA goal winning several short corners. And they took the lead when Rosie Blackmore was on hand to tap in at the near post from a short corner strike. Magpies seemed to gain in confidence as the match wore on, and extended their lead through Roo Barker, her battling efforts deserved a goal as she slipped the ball past the 'keeper. But still UEA came at Magpies and had a continued spell of possession in the Magpies defensive D, winning four short corners in a row, but the away side held firm; Kristina Erith in the Magpies goal standing tall as ever and keeping Magpies' solid lead, and the defence battling hard, with Megg Eglington in particular, strong at right back. Kay Dennis capped a fine performance from Magpies when she got their fourth goal, a brilliant solo effort taking the ball wide into the D and striking the ball across the 'keeper into the far corner of the goal.

Another impressive display from the 4th's, marking their best start to a league campaign for several seasons, and the effort and commitment from this group of players is second to none.


Kay Dennis, Ladies Magpies 4th's.

Men's 7ths 4 Felixstowe 3rds 1

In this top of the table game with first playing second, Magpies started off slowly unaccustomed to being denied time and space as Felixstowe attempted to take advantage of youthfulness that was definitely on their side.

Against the run of play Magpies took the lead from their first short corner through a direct shot by Jon Wells. Felixstowe had a chance to equalise when a short corner as illegally stopped on the line but Murray Graham dived to save. The lead did not last long as a further corner was converted.

Half time arrived and, for once, on field tactician Simon Bardwell could not use the line about starting the second half as if the scores are level because they were. At this time a Grey Wagtail flew over calling.

As the second half progressed Magpies better ball retention enabled them to exert more control. They took the lead from a well worked short corner move or an errant shot from Jon Wells depending on your point of view was turned into the goal by Joe Walker. Joe then added a second when a fine run along the goal line by Simon Bardwell had the keeper stranded at the near post and Joe's shot was accurate into the unguarded net though it did take a long time in execution.

The two goal cushion was put at risk when James Smith miscontrolled a ball into Magpies circle and allowed the ball to gently come to rest cushioned between his ankles- a picture reminiscent of a King Penguin incubating its egg on the Antarctic ice pack. The corner came to nothing and then in the very last minute James ventured into the opposition D and the ball entered the opposition goal. These two events were obviously related but it was difficult to see quite why or how.

Magpies have no game next week as the opposition have withdrawn from the league. Indeed there are only three more league games between now and January 15th 2011.




Broxbourne Vets 2 Harleston Vets 3


HA Vets Cup

It was a glorious late autumn day with the golden tints on the trees approaching their zenith, there was a clear blue sky and a vestige of warmth from the middle of the day sun then we reached Broxbourne.

Showing intent Magpies arrived in good time to prepare and warm up but the sight of a team in Broxbourne colours, though some twenty five years short of the qualifying age to play in the Vets cup, taking to the pitch some 45 minutes before our expected start time did not auger well and there was very little pitch time available before the start.

Magpies welcomed Duncan Cogdell into their ranks for his debut. After a sluggish start, Magpies showed patches of their quick passing game but were thwarted by various means by the Broxbourne defence until a move down the right ended with the ball reaching Martin Reader who netted. Then Jon Aldridge managed to evade several challenges until left with an open goal for number two and then almost at half time a long pass into the circle was bravely deflected in by Roger Kent.

Magpies had received two green cards in the first half – in both cases following on from fouls by the opposition and the general opinion at half time was for discipline and control. It has to be said that after a number of poor decisions it was highly likely that there would be a yellow shown in our direction and this as the case but surprisingly not to the more expected candidates when Alistair Williamson was penalised for playing at the ball while not 5 yards from a free hit. There was an element of inconsistency about this.

Broxbourne did get one goal back, then each team hit the post with Duncan Codgell deprived of a goal against his previous club. A penalty stroke was conceded- answers on a post card please but for the second time in the weekend Murray Graham made a save. With five minutes to go a scramble produced a second goal but Magpies rode out the remaining time to progress into the next round. This takes place on Sunday 5th December against Indian Gymkhana at Weybread

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies sponsored by Kitchen Sense of Harleston are at home this Saturday against Dereham starting at 12.30. This is the first time two teams from Norfolk have met in the English Hockey League as a result of Dereham winning promotion last season from the East League Premier Division. Unfortunately both teams are currently in the relegation zone so both teams need the three points which should make for an interesting game.

Magpies secured a crucial point at St Albans in a 1-1 draw last week as they fought back from 1-0 down at half time. Their first half performance was disappointing but they responded very positively in the second half and even had chances to win the game. This result ensured that St Albans also remain in the relegation area and were not able to pull away.

Magpies need to start making home advantage count with some home wins and there would be no better day than to record their first home win.

Emma Lee-Smith makes a very welcome return to the Club following her transfer from Reading whilst Catherine Cranmer and Emily Wilford return to the squad.


SQUAD:

Louisa Greenacre (Capt), Charlotte Lee-Smith, Bryony Lund, Katrina Warnes, Ellie Bale, Frances Sumner, Debbie Francis, Charlotte Harrison, Verity Blyth, Lucy Fields, Krista Hopkinson, Catherine Cranmer, Emily Wilford, Jess Howland and Emma Lee-Smith.

East Hockey Leagues Division 2N

Harleston Magpies 3rd XI, 2 – Peterborough Town 3rd XI, 4

Peterborough Town third team, top of Division 2N, were the visitors to Weybread last Saturday afternoon. Having only dropped 2 points all season it was always going to be a tough ask for the youthful Magpies Third team, but from how the match started you may have thought the positions were reversed.

Several chances came and went for the home team, in a period of play that will rank as their best performance of the season so far. However with no home goals coming, the Peterborough left back carried the ball half the pitch length before seeing his cross/shot deflect in. Magpies continued to be the dominant force in the game and eventually a goal came when quick passing in the circle allowed Toby Hughes to convert. However a repeat dose of full back adventure produced a second for the visitors and took them to a 2-1 half time lead. The second half was probably a truer reflection of where both sides are, as Peterborough took command. A job made easier by the unfortunate loss of Magpies’ influential Phil Cobbald to injury. Two penalty strokes by Peterborough either side of Quentin Baynes’ first of the season concluded the scoring, and left Harleston to ponder how to turn performances into results.

East Hockey Leagues Division 2N

Ipswich & East Suffolk I XI, 6 Vs Harleston Magpies III XI, 6

In an unusual change of events Magpies’ third team actually took an early lead against their higher ranked hosts, Ipswich & East Suffolk. Matt Brand sending a flick towards the back of the net for his strike partner Gavin Cole to make sure. However the Ipswich side had little trouble in responding: their centre forward walking through the spine of the defence. Two further strikes seemed to be taking the game away from Magpies, but just before half-time Gus Carpenter stepped through a crowded circle to bury his shot in the bottom corner.

The restart saw Ipswich regain a two goal advantage but more against the run of play as Magpies', now traditional, second half improvement turned the game. A fine reverse stick goal from Phil Cobbald was soon followed by the team goal of the game, when Gavin Cole swept in a full length of the pitch move which included good play from Toby Hughes. At this point, and with Harleston's Glenn Masterson delivering a commanding game, there looked like only being one winner. However Ipswich's ariel assault and sharp forward play found two quick goals putting them as firm favourites to close out the game! Magpies would have none of it and Matt Brand scored an individual goal before arriving on the back post to turn in Gavin Coles pass and complete the entertaining 6-6 score line.

7,6,1

Seven teams, six wins and one draw - the Ladies' teams did the club proud last Saturday. The 2nds recorded their third successive win with skipper Melissa Hunter and Sarah Brook scoring in their 2-1 win over IES 2-1, the 3rds moved up their league with a 3-1 win over Watton 2nds, the 4ths retained the leadership of their league by beating Broadland 2nds 4-0 while the 5ths won again by beating UEA 2nds 4-1. The students played for several minutes with eight players and no goalkeeper with one of their players describing their trip from Norwich as 'the worst journey of my life'!  Meantime the 6ths recorded their second win of the season by beating Thetford 2nds 5-0, the Development squad had a good 2-0 win over Dereham having drawn with them on the opening day of the season and the 1sts gained a vital point at St Albans with a goal by Bryony Lund helping them towards a 1-1 draw.

Results were more mixed for the Men's teams with the 2nds coming from 2-0 down at half time to beat Pelicans 5-4 away with Martin Fields grabbing a hat-trick while the 3rds lost 4-2 at home to table topping Peterborough 3rds having dominated the opening twenty five minutes without finding the net. Peterborough scored in only their second attack before the in-form Toby Hughes scored a good equaliser. The game turned in the second half when Philip Cobbald, who had been in commanding form, went off injured in addition to Ewan Cumming, putting severe pressure on the defence which conceded two converted strokes while at the other end Quentin Baynes scored with a deft reverse stick deflection behind his back – his first goal since returning to the club.

This was a good performance despite the final score and another good performance came from the all-conquering 7ths who survived their first real test of the season to beat Felixstowe 3rds. In front of a select and knowledgeable crowd they went ahead through Jon Wells before skipper Murray Graham made a vital penalty stroke save. Despite conceding an equaliser a few minutes later this save clearly boosted his team and in a dominant second half Joe Walker scored twice before James Smith added a fourth with the last hit of the game.  Earlier the 5ths had returned to form with Chris Thornton (a welcome new member), skipper Will Main and Joel Nelson scoring in their 3-0 win over IES 2nds.

On Sunday the Men's 1sts never recovered against Old Loughtonians from losing leading scorer Andy Hipwell through a head injury in the first minute followed shortly afterwards by the concession of a penalty stroke. Things got even worse when the OLs scored a superb second immediately after we failed to convert a penalty corner and worse still when Carl Sitch went off with a hamstring injury. However, from 4-0 down the squad rallied in spirited fashion to pull two goals back through Pete Bale and Gareth Furlong only to concede another in the last minute. This was clearly a disappointing result but did not justify some people asking for their programme money back! Meanwhile the Men's Vets beat Broxbourne away 3-2 to progress to the next round of the EHB Cup where they will play Indian Gymkhana at home on Sunday 5 December. The goals were scored by Martin Reader, Jonathan Aldridge and Roger Kent with Murray Graham saving yet another penalty stroke! Well done to the Vets.

The club is fielding no less than nineteen teams this coming weekend and I only have limited space to say that the Ladies' 1sts have a vital home game against Dereham on Saturday (12.30) in the first ever national league match between two Norfolk clubs while on Sunday the Men's 1sts are away to Bromley & Beckenham (1.00) and five of our youth teams are in action in their respective EHB competitions. Good luck as always to all our teams – please see the Home Page of the website for the full programme.

News and comments in brief  

·         On behalf of the organising committee James Smith thanks everyone who attended last Friday's Fireworks Spectacular (he hopes you enjoyed the event) and the fifty members and parents who helped on the day with the preparation, car parking, stewarding, teas and coffees etc. Cheques for £700 each have been forwarded to the Harleston Lions, Scouts and Hockey Club with £5000 banked to pay for next year's event to be held on Friday 4 November.  

·         It is really good to know that Andy Bedwell has returned to the club. You will be very welcome in the 7ths Andy!

·         Please be alert – several local clubs have recently had cars burgled.

·         WorldHockey.org is always worth a visit and is currently featuring the FIH Rules of Hockey Video Library.

·         Grounds update – thanks are due to Artificial Grass Maintenance of March for their recent spraying of the pitches (to keep the dreaded algae at bay), to George Hunter for cutting the grass (the natural stuff!) once again and to Harry Flatt for mending one of the gateposts.

·         For your diary please – Ferret Racing and Bangers & Mash Night – in the clubhouse on Saturday 4 December (7.30pm).

Mike Denham   01603 506925     

MDenham975@aol.com   9/11/10   

Magpies Need to Bounce Back

Magpies suffered a home defeat last weekend against East Anglian rivals Old Loughtonians when the Essex side showed their strength in depth confirming they had lost little of their skills from the side that narrowly lost the league title on the final day of last season. A second minute injury to Andy Hipwell followed by a Carl Sitch injury ripped the heart out of Magpies.Whilst Magpies fought gallantly to the last , these injuries coupled with three goals gifted to the visitors set Magpies a task even they could not overcome.

This week Magpies are away to Bromley and Beckenham.The Kent side’s results have been mixed, a 6-3 win over Old loughtonians ,a 5-7 loss to Oxted and recently last week’s 4-3 win over St Albans indicates they can be beaten but equally are able to compete with the best.

Magpies are hoping Andy Hipwell will be fit but expect Carl Sitch not to recover in time. Pete Bale and Stuart Leate, both gaining in match fitness retain their places as does Ben Wright. Magpies will need to be at their best to secure the points but will be keen to put the previous week’s result behind them.

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;Ben Wright

Watton 2s 1 - 3 Magpies Ladies 3s

Magpies travelled to Watton after a 2 week break from league action. Magpies started strongly, winning the ball in evenly contested challenges and making the runs to beat the opposition, and were rewarded when Sophie Podd slotted the ball home from a well worked short corner leading Magpies into the break 1-0 up. The second half saw Kelsey Horlock add her name to the score sheet and Magpies continue to dominate. Watton had a few chances on the break however, only one got through the otherwise solid defence and into the goal. Magpies reacted by increasing their control on the game, and a good pass from Jemima Jacobs saw Beth Alexander through one on one with the keeper, and she converted to score a well deserved goal. Magpies look toward their game next week away to Norwich City 2s for more points to stay in the top 3.

Kristina Erith

Magpies Ladies 3s

The girls development put out a younger side against Dereham on Saturday having lost a couple of the more experienced players to the 6th.

The game started very scrappy with most of the play in the Magpies half. However the first goal was made by a run in from Kara Kilbourn who just managed to put it past the keeper.

Dereham tried hard to come back but some excellent defending by May Bowden and Sophie Long kept them at bay. After a succession of short corners Eliza had a shot on goal just missing.

The second half was much the same with Magpies dominating eventually providing goal number two from a short corner hit home by Kara Kilbourn. A 2-.0 win was a good result.

HARLESTON MAGPIES GIRLS MINI TOURNAMENT SUN NOV 7

Harleston Magpies played host to ten U12 teams and six U10 teams on Sunday. Magpies entered two U12 teams and two U10 teams to give as many players as possible the chance to play.


The U12 A team showed considerable improvement from the last time they played at Norwich City a few weeks ago finishing third with 7 wins, 1 draw and one defeat. Eliza Bell scored 11 goals.


UNDER 12A

Magpies B won 3-0 Eliza Bell 2, Georgina Warren

Norwich B won 1-0 Eliza Bell

Dereham A drew 0-0

Watton won 4-0 Eliza Bell 3, Isobel Knowles

Pelicans won 1-0 Eliza Bell

Dereham B won 2-1 Eliza Bell 2

Norwich A lost 0-2

Norwich Dragons won 3-0 Georgina Warren 2, Eliza Bell

Bury won 2-0 Sophie Dixon, Eliza Bell

Team: ElizaBell (Capt), Lucie Gooch, Elle Eglington, Sophie Dixon, Georgina Warren, Martha Lawrence, Isobel Knowles and Sophie Child.




The U12 B team understandably had a tough time competing against mostly Club A teams but they battled hard in all their games and it will have been a great experience.

U12B

Magpies A lost 0-3

Norwich Dragons drew 0-0

Bury drew 0-0

Norwich B lost 1-2 Isobel Napier

Watton lost 0-1

Dereham A lost 0-1

Dereham B lost 0-1

Norwich A lost 0-2

Pelicans drew 0-0

Team: Emily Hunt, Hannah Dobson, Alivia Bhullar, Amy Ryder, Madelaine Felton, Isobel Napier, Matilda Warde-Adlam, Hattie Hopkins and Annabel Young.



The U10 report will be sent in by the U10 Managers.

Harleston Magpies Men's 1st Vs Old Loughtonians Men's 1st 2 – 5

Harleston welcomed Old Loughts to Weybread following a week break in the league fixture schedule.

The first serious action of the game lead to Andrew Hipwell from the home side receiving a head injury after the ball deflected up ruling him out for the rest of the game. This was a sign of things to come for Magpies as sloppy defending lead to a gift of a penalty corner which was blocked on the line by a defender. A penalty stroke was harshly awarded but despatched expertly by Alex Jennings of Loughts. Magpies were now 0-1 down but responded well by winning a penalty corner of their own, however this was defended well leading to a fast break the full length of the field for Alex Jennings to convert past the exposed Richard Harms. Old Loughts were now in firm control of the game leading 0-2. Harleston had no option but to continue to attacking Loughts leading to a few opportunities for the home side. Loughts continued to look dangerous in attack stretching the Harleston defence at every chance. As half time approached the task got even harder for Harleston with Carl Sitch also got injured. The home side went in 0-2 at half time.

Harleston like the first half started slowly allowing Old Loughts to press Harleston high up the pitch once more. There pressure worked as they were rewarded with two quick goals from James Steadman and Leroy Phillips both from open play as Magpies left holes at the back. The home side were left reeling but this did seem to galvanise Harleston. Midway through the half Pete Bale found space at the top of the Dee then lashed the ball home making it 1-4. Magpies continued to push up resulting in a penalty corner on 68minutes which was scored by Gareth Furlong reducing the deficit to 2 -4. The home side could sniff a comeback and continued to push forward. This left gaps at the back for Loughts attack to exploit which they did resulting in a penalty corner converted by Leroy Phillips putting the game to bed and making the final score 2 – 5

Saturday 6 November
LADIES 1s v St Albans (L) (A) 1.30 1-1 D
LADIES 2s v IES (L) (A) 1.00 2-1 W
LADIES 3s v Watton 2s (L) (A) 10.00 3-1 W
LADIES 4s v Broadland 2s (L) (H) 1.45 (S) 4-0 W
LADIES 5s v UEA 2s (L) (H) 12.30 (W) 4-1 W
LADIES 6s v Thetford 2s (L) (A) 2.00 5-0 W
GIRLS Dev. v Dereham (L) (H) 4.00 (W) 2-0 W
MENS 2s v Pelicans (L) (A) 3.00 5-4 W
MENS 3s v City of Peterborough 3s (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 2-4 L
MENS 4s v UEA (L) (H) 12.15 (S) 0-2 L
MENS 5s v IES 2s (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 3-0 W
MENS 6s v Dereham 5s (L) (A) 2.15 0-0 D
MENS 7s v Felixstowe 3s (L) (H) 3.15 (S) 4-1 W
BOYS Dev. v Dereham (L) (A) 11.15 2-4 L
Sunday 7 November
MENS 1s v Old Loughtonians (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 2-5 L
MENS Vets v Broxbourne (A) (EHB Cup) 1.30 3-2 W
U10 Girls Minis (HMHC) 9.30 Magpies ‘A’ 1st, Pelicans 2nd
U12 Girls Minis (HMHC) 9.30 Magpies ‘A’ 3rd, Norwich City 1st, Dereham 2nd

Ladies 5th continued their winning ways with a 4 - 1 victory against UEA 2nds. The match started late when UEA had 8 players - the others lost somewhere in the wilds of Norfolk or Suffolk. Shirley McAllen scored a first half hat - trick of penalty corners. The only disappointing aspect being that we could not manage an open play goal against 8 players with no GK. Apart from that the team played some good hockey using the space well. On a rare breakaway for UEA Ellie O`Sullivan in goal made a fine save.

The second half was a much tighter affair when the opposition had their full quota of players although Magpies still had the greater share of possession. Georgina Minta played well up front and Rachel Herod scored her first goal. Lisa Dobson worked tirelessly in midfield. UEA scored their consolation goal mid way through the second half.

Ladies 2nds vs. Ipswich and East Suffolk 1sts

IES started strongly and put magpies under a lot of pressure for the first 5minutes. A high press made it difficult for Magpies to transfer the ball around the back, a strategy which has worked well for the team in previous weeks. A change in the forward line-up made way for the debut of young Kira Wooltorton who put in a strong all-round performance, winning many tackles and having several shots on goal. The seconds also welcomed back Lauren Mickleburgh, who combined well with Melissa Hunter up the right side to create a number of chances and short-corners, which unfortunately Magpies couldn't convert. The remained of the first half saw both sides working incredibly hard but neither could produce a clear cut opportunity to score.

Magpies started the second half the brighter side, again creating a number of chances but failing to convert. The midfield of Sarah Brook, Siobhan Wooltorton and Lizzie Jones really stepped up their game at this point firing a number of balls into the circle. IES were then awarded a controversial short-corner, which they converted after a messy goal mouth scramble, within which magpies couldn't get the ball clear. Magpies once again responded brightly, and a brilliant man-of-the-match worthy goal by Sarah Brook saw Magpies draw level. With 10minutes left Lauren Barber really pushed up-front, hassling the IES defenders for the winner. Magpies were then awarded another short-corner which Melissa Hunter struck sweetly from the top of the circle to put Magpies in front. In the last 2minutes IES were lucky to win only their second short-corner of the game, which produced an epic goal line save from Frances Taylor. This was a hard thought match which Magpies thoroughly deserved to win……. Better luck next time Llyody!