HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies are at home this Saturday against St Albans starting at 12.30 in their English Hockey League match. Magpies recorded another notable away win last weekend against the then League leaders Ipswich with a 1-0 win and could easily have added to their tally in the final ten minutes. Sevenoaks have now gone back on top over Ipswich on goal difference with both teams on 29 points.

Magpies remarkable run since Christmas has continued when they recorded their fifth successive League win to record a tally of 15 points with four League games to go. Bearing in mind that they had just eight points at the half way stage they have increased the gap from the relegation zone from one point to 16 points. Ironically they have only moved up two places in the League to 5th place but they are now six points behind the League leaders.

St Albans have also been in very good form since Christmas having moved from 9th place to 8th but most important of all opened up a gap of six points from Cambridge City in 9th place. Earlier in the season Magpies drew 1-1 with St Albans in a very tense match which neither side could afford to lose at that time.


SQUAD FROM: Louisa Greenacre (Capt), Charlotte Lee-Smith, Katrina Warnes, Lucy Fields, Catherine Cranmer, Debbie Francis, Frances Sumner, Charlotte Harrison, Bryony Lund, Artemis Clark, Emma Lee-Smith, Verity Blyth, Jess Howland, Sarah Brook and Emily Wilford

Saturday 26 February
LADIES 2s – no game
LADIES 3 v Panthers (L) (A) 2.00 3-0 W
LADIES 4s – no game
LADIES 5s v Norwich Dragons 3s (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 1-2 L
LADIES 6s v Norwich City 4s (L) (H) 10.45 (S) 1-1 D
GIRLS Dev. v Norwich City (L) (H) 12.15 (S) 1-5 L

MENS 1s v St Albans (L) (H) 2.15 0-3 L
MENS 2s v Pelicans (L) (H) 12.15 (W) 6-5 W
MENS 3s v City of Peterborough 3s (L) (A) 3.00 1-4 L
MENS 4s v UEA (L) (A) 1.00 5-3 W
MENS 5s v IES 2s (L) (A) 1.00 0-3 L
MENS 6s v Dereham 5s (L) (H) 4.00 (W) 3-0 W
MENS 7s v Lowestoft Railway 2s (L) (A) 2.30 5-2 W
BOYS Dev. v Pelicans (L) (A) 12.00 1-7 L

Sunday 27 February
LADIES 1s v Ipswich (L) (A) 2.00 1-0 W
MENS 2s v Cambridge University 2s (L) (A) 2.00 0-4 L
MIXED v Brentwood (EHB Trophy) (H) 12.30 9-0 W

Harleston – 0  IES – 3

After a week off, Magpies travelled to IES with high hopes for further solidifying their second place position in the league. Magpies had beaten IES 3-0 back in November and on paper were the stronger squad going into the match unbeaten in 9.

IES started brightly and Magpies seemed lethargic compared to previous weeks. Difficulty keeping possession and a lack of communication early on set the tone for the rest of the match. Magpies were not delivering the basics that they had showcased well against Railway two weeks before. IES took advantage of this and were creating attacking chances with ease. Frustrations crept in and Magpies cohesiveness was somewhat fractured. IES were linking nicely from back to front and eventually goals came taking a 2-0 lead into half time.

After a rousing speech from Rob Goodson at half time Magpies stepped out with a renewed energy. The second half performance was much improved from Magpies, but a breakaway goal with a good individual effort to finish from IES took them to 3-0. Magpies battled hard and played their best hockey of the game in the last 20 minutes. A defeat at this point was hard to stomach, and the whole team was disappointed to not take away a win.

After this week’s result the Men’s 5ths drop to third in the table, behind Holt Harlequins in second and Lowestoft Railway in 1st who have already been confirmed league champs and secured promotion to division 3. Congratulations to Lowestoft Railway.

Magpies entertain Holt at home this week, now even more of a must win game if they are to regain that 2nd promotion place. Holt will travel to Weybread next weekend after a solid performance this weekend against Norwich City beating them 6-3.

Harleston Magpies Ladies 6th XI match report

Magpies 6 played against Norwich City 4 on an overcast, wet morning, so gloomy that we asked for floodlights but they weren't switched on. Norwich fielded a young side with some excellent players which took us by surprise. During the first half, Norwich City seemed to have the upper hand but our defenders and goalkeeper skilfully kept the ball away from our goal. Lucy Crawford made some fine runs but left the pitch with an injury. Unfortunately, Norwich City were awarded a short corner and scored just before half time.

During the second half, we played with determination and Jodie Guest battled hard against the central forwards. Play seemed to move up a notch and we managed to keep the ball in the Norwich City half. Jo Meyer took a short corner which was received by Laura Schultheiss who smashed it home. Then we seemed to have at least four chances at scoring but the ball elusively missed the goal twice, hit the post once and a well aimed pass from the right wing went flying off the back line. We held our breath during the final short corner for Norwich City but our defenders stopped everything leaving the score as a draw.

Score: 1 – 1


Joanna Meyer

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1sts 1-0 Ipswich

Magpies maintained their 100% record for the second half of the season with their 5th consecutive win against local rivals, and league leaders, Ipswich. Magpies were away for this local derby fixture and knew that they had to improve on their performance from the previous weekend if they were going to get anything from the game. As predicted, the first half was played at a high tempo with the ball being quickly switched around the pitch. Emma Lee- Smith intercepted the ball in the middle of the park on several occasions to force the Ipswich defence to make some desperate tackles to prevent Magpies going ahead. Ipswich also looked dangerous going forward and had some fast and skilful forwards who came close to scoring a couple of times in the first half. However, good defending and some important saves from Charlotte Lee-Smith in goal prevented Ipswich from converting their pressure. The one and only goal of the match came on 14 minutes, after Frances Sumner put a ball through into the circle from a free hit for Emily Wilford, who calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net past the Ipswich keeper.

The second half produced no further goals, but continued with end to end spells for both sides, which made for a tight last few minutes for Magpies to hold on to their narrow lead. Attacks from both sides meant that the defending from both teams had to be very sharp in order to prevent either side scoring. Katrina Warnes had a superb game in defence, who intercepted the ball on numerous occassions to release the forwards for attaching opportunities. Emma Lee-Smith and Sarah Brook had several passages of excellent link up play and were unfortunate not to put Magpies 2-0 up. This was another all round strong team performance from Magpies who showed commitment and work rate right until the final whistle to take a much deserved three points. This win moves them into 5th place in the league and only 2 points off third.

Harleston Magpies Men's 1st Vs. St Albans Men's 1st

0 -3

Harleston Magpies welcomed St Albans to Shotford Heath after a good away point last week at Wimbledon. St Albans came into the game following a defeat by Indian Gymkhana last week and sitting at the bottom of the league.

The game started brightly with both sides having their own periods of possession as the game quickly fell into a pattern of the home side attacking with St Alban sitting in their own half looking to catch Harleston on the break with quick counter attacking hockey. Early in the half St Alban counter attack managed to find a route through the Harleston defence only for the Albans attacker to find his stick blocked by the Harleston goal keeper. St Alban awarded a penalty flick which Richard Harms saved down to his left. This sounded as a wakeup call to the home side, as the half went on they took more and more control of the game. It soon lead to chances which came and went as St Alban defended manfully as their defenders helped out the goalkeeper on a number of occasions. Harleston working the St Albans defence knowing the first goal was all important but with neither side able to make a break through the score remained 0 -0 at half time.

The second half started with the home side on the back foot as they quickly found themselves 0 –1 down as poor defensive work allowed Albans to sweep the ball into the Magpies Dee and then again diverted low into the corner of the Harleston goal by the attacker. This set the game up into a similar pattern as the first half as Harleston tried to break down the defence of St Albans once again. Harleston again created more chances but once again were unable to take them. As the game went on they continued throwing men forward but with St Albans dangerous on the counter mainly via their areal balls out of defence they left gaps at the back. However there second goal came from more sloppy defending by the home side as the St Albans attacker was presented with the ball at the top of the Dee. It was then well worked around the Harleston covering defenders and goal keeper as they extended the lead to 0 – 2. Again Harleston continued to attack but once again they left the back door open as again more poor defending lead to St Albans scoring a third making it 0 – 3 to the away side.

Magpies 7s v Norwich City 6s

Rain, Cloud and a cold wind-chill. None of these had been experienced by the 7s this season, especially the watering part which was almost constant and very wet for the entire match. It also didn't start well when Captain Murray said a word beginning in 'b' and ending in 'ks', just as his mother-in-law appeared at the fence! He assures me he said this as he couldn't find a piece of his kit. However it didn't take long, in Magpies eyes at least, for it to turn into what seemed like a sunny spring day. As by half time we were 4 goals to the good.

The first, predictably, was scored by the returning well rested from his mid 2nd part of the 2nd part of the season break to Kenya, Wells; from a short corner of course. Dragged out by Bardy to Wells who steadied and shot, ball hitting back board in the usual fashion. The 2nd goal, came after good work from the midfield and strike force, ending in the fear of everyone with Chopper having time from just right of the P spot to wind up and strike with power. Thus ending in a City defender on the line nearly losing a hand, as it flew through his stick and hitting the back of the net at belly button height!

The 3rd goal was scored by the welcome return of Pete (the ginger magician), picking the ball at the 25 he headed towards the top of the D, where he ran into trouble. Getting himself out of this with good skill and then heading round to the left and to the deadball line, using even better dribbling ability he eventually put the ball into the goal at the near post, despite the keeper being there. Joe Walker then made a good run into the D to receive a pass from the right, and despite it seeming hard to miss, he did so and the ball went wide of the post. The 4th goal, from another short corner, in its usual fashion arrived at the stick of Wells, who attempted to push back to Bardy at the near post whilst keeping this on target, ended up being deflected into their own net by a City defender.

Norwich City had a 5minute period in the 1st half when they had all the play, but this only resulted in one opportunity, which wasn't really one, and was ably kicked away by Murray in goal.

The 2nd half started off much like the 1st, with a goal. A new scorer for this game in the form of Joe Walker. As always he was in the right place at the right time to score from all of 2feet out. From then on for the next 15minutes, Magpies had all the play and pressure, with City having few opportunities, mainly resulting in poor long ball passes which evaded all of their attacking players. Magpies pressure during this period brought the best opportunity in the form of a pull back from the dead-ball line after a good run, where Walker stood, then walker swiped, made no contact with ball and ball carried on merrily to the opposite touchline. Eventually we got our just reward and a 6th goal, after the ball pinging on and off keeper pads a few times, the ball was collected by Iain Cummings who flick-pushed the ball past keeper into the side netting of goal.

7th goal, with Wells on the ball at the 25, he took one look up and saw Walker standing on the P spot, although marked he was the right side of his player and with such pace on the pass, he just had to make contact with the ball and put slight direction on it, which he duly did fast into the goal, giving the keeper no chance. I at this point was gradually getting more and more frustrated as I had had opportunities which I had failed to score from. This changed with a pass from Cummings, although briefly intercepted and flicked up to my hip level, I managed to bring under control and into the top right of the D, and with concentration and eyes on the ball took swing. To my surprise and delight this powerfully went beyond the keepers outstretched leg into the far corner of the goal. My 4th of the season and the Teams 90th goal of the campaign. 8-0. I still had time to miss an opportunity for a 9th with the last hit of the game, however with tiredness at the fore, I really didn't know where I was in the D, or for that matter where the keeper was, so a week flicking attempt was made, which hit the keepers pads at knee height.

Unfortunately for them, Norwich City were outclassed by a skilful and fast running Magpies team. To their credit they took defeat gracefully.

STATS CORNER;

Promotion can be sealed, "I think"…..if we win our next match and Felixstowe fail to win. If they do this, they will remain at least 26% behind Magpies with 5 matches to play. With each game being worth 5%, even if Magpies lost their remaining 4 matches, we couldn't be caught.

Dolly, feel free to prove me wrong in next weeks report.

Deputy Publicity; Magic

Magpies So Nearly Win Away

Magpies at last dispelled their away voodoo when dominating the second half of a fine performance against Wimbledon with the London side grabbing a point with a goal in the last thirty seconds of the game. With regulars Richard Harms,Mark Wheelhouse and Stuart Leate all missing Magpies put in one of their best performances of the season. Debutants Marc Lloyd and Andy Bedwell both had fine games and with Dan Legg also stepping up well there are interesting selection questions posed for the vital game against bottom of the table St Albans this weekend, Weybread Saturday 2.15.

Whilst the squad did well against a London side who were expected to be in the mix at the top of the table at the end of the season St Albans pose a different problem. They beat Wimbledon two weeks ago but lost to the improving Indian Gymkhana 7-2 last weekend and will work well as a unit to try and preserve their national league status.

Whilst Carl Sitch remains absent through injury, Robbie Kinsella is unavailable and Mark Wheelhouse is still away but Stuart Leate is available and Richard Harms may recover from injury to challenge for a starting slot.

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

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES WEEKEND PREVIEW

This weekend Harleston Magpies Ladies play League leaders Ipswich away on Sunday starting at 2.00pm. Magpies beat Cambridge City at home last week 3-1 to record their fourth successive League win since they returned to outdoor League action since Christmas. Bearing in mind Magpies only had eight points at Christmas this is a remarkable turn around as they have pulled away from the relegation zone. This weekend Magpies hope to have a full strength squad for the first time since the turn of the year. Emma Lee- Smith should return this weekend and hopefully Bryony Lund will have recovered from a niggling injury which has been with her for several weeks.

The main reason for Magpies improvement is the return or availability of five players which has given the squad strength in depth and a much greater range of attacking options.

With Ipswich moving back to the top of the League after last weekend's results this will obviously be a very tough match and it will be interesting to see how Magpies cope with the situation. In some ways it will be very similar to the match Magpies had against the then unbeaten League leaders Surbiton a couple of weeks ago which Magpies won 2-1.


SQUAD: Louisa Greenacre (Capt), Charlotte Lee-Smith, Katrina Warnes, Lucy Fields, Catherine Cranmer, Debbie Francis, Frances Sumner, Charlotte Harrison, Bryony Lund, Artemis Clark, Emma Lee-Smith, Verity Blyth, Jess Howland, Sarah Brook and Emily Wilford

Wimbledon Men's 1st Vs Harleston Magpies Men's 1st

1 – 1

Harleston travelled away to Wimbledon looking for their first points on the road since the Christmas break.

Early exchanges in the game saw Harleston have good possession without really penetrating the home side. When Wimbledon got the ball they were looking to break quickly. After an even start the home side took control creating a lot of pressure in the Magpies half without really creating large numbers of clear cut chances. However on around 15 minutes they did have a penalty corner which was cleared of the line from Tristan Baynes. As the half went on Harleston came more and more into it passing the ball around well. This soon lead to chances for the away side first from a penalty corner, then Andrew Hipwell forged his way into the Dee before laying the ball to younger brother Simon Hipwell who delightfully reverse stick slotted the ball home. This made it 0 -1 to the away side on 27 minutes. Magpies were not finished here as they continued to dominate the end of the first half as Pete Bale created more chances but on this occasion they were not taken. Harleston went in one nil up at half time.

In the second half Wimbledon made the early running as they pushed to try and get back in the game. Harleston absorbed allot of pressure but still managed to carry a threat on the break going forward. Wimbledon continued to push throwing more and more men forward leaving themselves open at the back. Wimbledon did manage to break through on a few occasions but if needed Marc Lloyd in the Harleston goal was always there to clean up. There were also good chances for the away side with the best falling to the Andrew Hipwell who was just unable to convert on this occasion. Wimbledon frustration grew as the half wore on and soon boiled over as one of their players received a Yellow card. This stopped their momentum, allowing Harleston to take control of the game once again passing the ball around well like they'd done at the end of the first half. Wimbledon restored to eleven for the final 5 minutes but Harleston seem to be able to keep Wimbledon at arm's length through good defensive work. As the game drew to a close Wimbledon found one more surge forward penetrating the Dee but this time they managed to win a penalty corner on 70 minutes. Wimbledon's slick corner routine saw Seb Malti score in the 70th minute to take the 3 points out Harleston Magpies grasp to share the spoils. Final score Wimbledon 1 – 1 Harleston Magpies.

Saturday 19 February
LADIES 1s v Cambridge City (L) (H) 12.30 (W) 3-1 W
LADIES 2s v Cambridge University (L) (A) 12.00 0-2 L
LADIES 3s v Thetford (L) (H) 1.45 (S) OFF W/O Win
LADIES 4s v Yarmouth 2s (L) (A) 1.00 1-0 W
LADIES 5s – no game
LADIES 6s v Herlings (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 0-4 L
GIRLS Dev. v North Walsham (L) (H) 10.45 (S) OFF W/O Win

MENS 2s v Long Sutton (L) (A) 1.00 4-5 L
MENS 3s v IES (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 6-1 W
MENS 4s v Pelicans 2s (L) (H) 12.15 (S) 4-6 L
MENS 5s – no game MENS 6s v Norwich City 5s (L) (A) 1.00 6-2 W
MENS 7s v Norwich City 6s (L) (H) 4.00 (W) 8-0 W
BOYS Dev. – no game

Sunday 20 February
MENS 1s v Wimbledon (L) (A) 1.00 1-1 D
MEN’S Vets v Bishop’s Stortford (EHB Cup) (A) 2.00 2-3 L

Ladies 2 vs Cambridge Uni 1s

Magpies travelled away again this week to second placed Cambridge Uni. This was always going to be a tough match but Magpies felt confident with the squad back to full strength. This showed from the start as Magpies fought well in defence to prevent Cambridge from scoring an early goal. After 20 minutes however Magpies were unlucky to concede after a well worked short corner by the students. The disappointment inspired Magpies and they produced some of their best hockey of the season. Lizzie Jones created several chances up front through lots of leg work and skill, however Magpies were unlucky not to convert.

Magpie started the second half with renewed determination. However Uni's high press troubled the Magpies defence who often found themselves stuck in their own half. Magpies failed to create as many chances as they had hoped for due to a very solid Uni defence. However Magpies continued to battle hard and played some beautiful hockey through Lauren Mickleburgh in the middle of the pitch. Continued Uni pressure lead to a number of short-corners which Magpies defender well, unfortunately the team found themselves 2-0 down after one particular goal mouth scramble. The second half continued in much the same way with Magpies defending hard till the final whistle.

This was a great team performance by the young squad, with a lot of positives despite the final result. Magpies look forward to facing them at home for what is sure to be another action packed game for players and fans alike.

Man of the Match Lauren Mickleburgh.

Flora Marfleet makes a return to form to earn dick of the day!

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1sts 3-1 Cambridge City

Magpies continued their winning streak at home to Cambridge City to make them unbeaten in the last 4 games since the Christmas break. Magpies had a full strength squad except for Emma Lee-Smith who was unavailable due to work commitments. City did not make it easy for Magpies at the start and they dominated the first 15 minutes of the game. They came out fighting after losing to fellow league strugglers Dereham the previous week, so picking up points became vital for City. A well worked passage of play put City 1-0 after 14 minutes, they had previously won several short corners and Magpies had to dig deep to avoid conceding early on. Their lead however, was short-lived after Sarah Brook was yet again in the right place to pick up a loose ball in front of goal to equalise. Magpies gradually started to pick up pace and had some nice passages of play down the left between Charlotte Harrison and Emily Wilford. However, they were unable to capitalise on the increased pressure and needed the half time talk to re-group.

The 2nd half was a much improved performance from the ladies, who started to play with the same commitment and pressure they had shown in the previous 3 games. Magpies had chances in on goal with Emily Wilford and Artemis Clark only narrowly missing out on converting. However, Magpies eventually went 2-1 up after 57 minutes when Debbie Francis' quick thinking from a free hit outside of the 25, put the ball into the circle for Frances Sumner to deflect with the narrowest of glances past the Cambridge keeper. This 2-1 lead seemed to settle Magpies into a much better rhythm of play and proceeded to dominate the remainder of the 2nd half. Artemis Clark scored a much deserved goal from a well worked short corner routine after 63 minutes to put the game beyond City.

Despite picking up another 3 points, Magpies have yet to climb a place in the league. However, with 3 teams mid table all being separated by just 2 points, it will make for an exciting last few games of the season.

Harleston Magpies Ladies X1 match report.

Conditions were cold and wet when we played Herlings at Harleston. They dominated the game right from the start and had some tough and skilful players. We put up a spirited fight, however, and Vanessa Vigrass came very close to scoring with just the goalkeeper in her way. Herlings scored twice during the first half despite courageous defence tactics.

The second half saw better passing amongst the Harleston players and play was slightly more even with short corners awarded on both sides. Unfortunately, one of our corners swiftly ended up at the other end of the pitch and Herlings scored. Soon after, they scored again and we were dispirited yet there were some inspired moments with Charley Copsey battling hard against Herling's Right Wing and Molly Alexander stopping a tremendously hard hit ball dead on the goal-line.

Score: 0 – 4


Joanna Meyer

Yarmouth II 0 - 1 Magpies Ladies IV

In a fixture rearranged due to snow before christmas, Magpies travelled away to face Yarmouth, where a victory would see them win the Division One league title and gain promotion to the Premier Division, but a defeat would mean promotion could not yet be guaranteed.

In cold, drizzly conditions at Cliff Park High School, the match started in a scrappy fashion, and with Magpies fielding a changed team from previous weeks they were unable to assert their authority in the opening minutes. The game did settle down somewhat, with Yarmouth making dangerous ground into the Magpies D on the counter attack, and Magpies being kept out by the Yarmouth 'keeper. Both sides won a couple of short corners during the first half, but were unable to make good use of them and find the back of the net, and the score remained goalless going into half time.

Magpies came out after the break determined to find the winner to ensure their league title, but still the Yarmouth defence and goalkeeper kept them at bay. With fifteen or so minutes left to go, an injury to a Yarmouth player saw the time stopped and Magpies had a chance to regroup. Battling hard after the restart, Magpies got the ball back into the Yarmouth D, and it fell to Roo Barker to push the ball to the left of the 'keeper and score Magpies' most important goal of the season; a real team effort. With ten minutes still left to play, Magpies fought for every ball and did everything they could to get to the final whistle with their lead intact. And they did!

What an incredible achievement - in only their second season in the Norfolk Division One League they won the title and gained promotion, with three games still left to be played! Thanks must go to 5th team players Frankie Eaves, Laura Davidson and Saffron Wilford who stepped up a team to play for the 4th's, all of whom gave impressive performances. Thanks also to Hannah Linger for going back into defence when needed and putting in a solid display. Special mention this week to Sarah Legg and Katie Mound at the back for Magpies for their outstanding performances. However, all 13 players must be proud of themselves for being part of such a hard fought game, and those players not playing today must be proud of their involvement up to now, as it has truly been a team effort!


Kay Dennis, Magpies Ladies 4th's.

Norfolk Nomads 1s v Harleston Magpies 7s

With Publicity Manager Dolly away on repatriation duty, it fell to his deputy to scribe this weeks pitch events. I had learnt from his preparation techniques, I had several lines and points already written, but unfortunately most of them are useless now following the result. However they are too good not to be seen, it was going to be something like this; Much like Genghis Khan murdering all the monks in Mongolia, the Magpies were ruthless and slaughtered their opposition. As it turned out, this was the hardest game of the season, and much like their name-sakes in Mongolia, Nomad 1s never stopped moving.

In the reverse fixture earlier in the season, we had brushed them aside 6-0. This time they clearly didn't want the same to happen. They were organised, never stopped running and rarely gave us time on the ball; although we made them look a lot better on several occasions by passing straight to them, when it looked far easier to pass to our own team. Part of the pre match chat was the reading of a text message sent from the absent Dolly, although very stirring, I feel it may have distracted most of the team, we did however manage the main point of the message, "let me know when victory is achieved", which we duly did.

Other than Dolly, we were missing top scorer J.Wells, and boy did we miss him, mainly at short corners, where as we usually depend on his powerful strikes from the top of the D, we spent the whole match trying to walk the ball into the net. Which we did eventually achieve through a nice routine late in the game. Dragged out from Bardy to D.Blackmore, who passed straight back to Bardy who after setting himself, calmly and accurately passed the ball into the far corner of the goal.

This was nothing more than we deserved. As for however much effort and desire Nomads had, they were little threat in front of goal, and on the one occasion I can clearly remember, Murray in goal confidently charged out of his goal to clear 1st ball and for good measure, player! Other than this, it was all Magpies, trying and failing to score. The score should have been 3-0. After good work from Joe on the right, passing inside to David B, who in turn passed to Martin to slap into an open net, all that was managed was 'ping' off the outside of the post and out for a 16. Later in the 2nd half a similar event occurred. David B and Martin exchanged at least 3 return passes, resulting in David having to try and score from virtually on the post, which he duly failed to do. But it was a big ask when some might say, Martin should have shot before.

In summary, this was a well organised and tough team to play against, and with the team we had available on the day, the toughest game of the season.


Nomads 0 Magpies 1

Special note must be made to the Nomads Keeper, he made many saves, two of spectacular nature. The 1st from a short corner, the first shot was cleared on the line straight back to us, the return strike was flicked, destined for the net, until a flying keeper saved magnificently with his stick to put it wide of the post. The 2nd in the last few minutes of the match, with Joe central in the D, he shot, but due to the keeper diving head first with stick he succeeded in deflecting the shot up and it landed on the cross bar and over. The best keeper we have faced this season.

Stats corner; # The first clean sheet in 2011

# The first winner from Bardy this season

Deputy publicity; Magic

Magpies 0--Norwich/Watton 1

A game that we certainly should have won slipped through our fingers to end up a frustrating loss. Despite some good play in the first half we conceded a soft goal and seemed to take our foot off the gas despite some good runs down the wing by Jack Newbury. After a healthy half time team talk a different team seemed to take to the pitch with some of the best hockey we have seen all season with several attempts at goal being kept out by a visiting team determined to achieve their first victory of the season. While not denying Norwich their first win we should have come away with a lot more to show for what turned out to be a very credible performance. If we play the next game as we finished this one we will surely come away with the results that we deserve.

Magpies Win at Home Again

Magpies picked up vital points in a thrilling 3-2 win against Indian Gymkhana. Whilst two of the bottem three in the table lost the surprise of the day was St Albans, who are at the foot of the table, win against Wimbledon .Magpies were pleased to welcome back Andy Hipwell following injury, Pete Bale and Ben Wright who were both unavailable. The latter winning the game for Magpies with a fine shot.

This week Magpies are on the road again with a trip to Wimbledon. Carl Sitch continues to be out through injury, Stuart Leate and Mark Wheelhouse do not make the trip. However Dann Legg returns to the squad following illness.

Wimbledon are the team currently not performing. Despite their array of talent they are on a bad run, having lost their last four games. Very few would have given St Albans a chance of beating them last weekend but the East side’s victory highlights just how tight the league is. Whist Magpies tally of points secured on the road is poor they have been in a number of narrow losses and it is hoped their recent home form will be carried into this away game.



Team from; Richard Harms;David Ling(Capt);Andy Hipwell;Tristan Baynes;Simon Hipwell;Will Martin;Jamie Legg;Richard Gill;Gareth Furlong;James Fanger;Pete Bale;Ben Wright;Dan Legg;Robbie Kinsella.

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES WEEKEND PREVIEW

This Saturday Harleston Magpies Ladies are at home against Cambridge City starting at 12.30. After a difficult first half of the season Magpies have turned their season around with three straight League wins against Horsham at home 2-1, Surbiton away 2-1 (until then unbeaten League leaders) and last week 3-0 away against Old Loughtonians. Those nine points have seen them pull away from the relegation zone to the comparative safety of mid table.

This Saturday Cambridge City are the visitors who are currently in 9th position and last week they lost at home 2-1 to Dereham in a crucial bottom of the table clash. Magpies will be anxious to keep their good run going but need to be very aware that teams that are struggling can often prove difficult opponents. Cambridge City discovered that last week against a Dereham side that secured their first points of the season.

Last October Magpies beat Cambridge City away 2-0 to secure their first points of the season. At the time that was a much needed three points to kick start Magpies season. Last year Magpies drew at home against Cambridge so they know that they can be difficult opponents. However Magpies are a team playing with much more confidence and it is important they keep their momentum going with another win.

SQUAD:

Louisa Greenacre (capt), Charlotte Lee-Smith, Katrina Warnes, Catherine Cranmer, Bryony Lund, Charlotte Harrison, Debbie Francis, Frances Sumner, Emily Wilford, Verity Blyth, Jess Howland, Sarah Brook, Artemis Clark, and Lucy Fields.

FEARS EASED

I just have to commence another Musings with reference to the Ladies' and Men's 1sts as both gained important wins at the weekend. By beating Old Loughtonians 3-0 away the Ladies gained their third win in just eight days to drastically reduce their relegation play-off fears while the Men battled to a vital 3-2 home win over Indian Gymkhana to ease but not remove possible end of season concerns.

The Ladies, who entertain Cambridge City this Saturday (12.30), have benefitted recently by a stronger squad together with the increasing experience gained by their very young players while the Men have, since the resumption, beaten two teams they lost to earlier in the season with one result (against Oxted) going the other way.

While Sunday's match against Indian Gym was no hockey classic it didn't lack for incident with Magpies taking a deserved two-goal lead through Gareth Furlong and James Legg by half time; Indian Gym getting a goal back soon after the break; Richard Harms expertly saving an IG penalty stroke; an equaliser coming from the visitors followed by a second loud firecracker being let off by one of their supporters; the award of three yellow cards and the scoring of the winning goal for Magpies by Ben Wright to match Wayne Rooney's spectacular effort for Man Utd the day before!  Ben picked up the ball on the edge of the circle and in an instant his reverse stick shot from the left thundered into the back board passed a startled defence. It was a goal to also match the reverse stick effort by Tom Hart some years back in the national league against Nottingham – until Sunday the best goal I've ever seen scored by a Magpie.  The team are at Wimbledon on Sunday (1.00) and a second away win of the season or even a first draw would go a long way to wipe out the disappointment of Wimbledon's very late winner at Weybread in October.

After the outstanding results of the previous weekend Saturday's results were almost bound to be less impressive but there were, nonetheless, some bright spots apart from the Ladies' 1sts. The Ladies' 2nds came back from their long trip to Lincoln with a good 0-0 draw; the Ladies' 4ths moved nearer to winning their league by beating UEA 2nds 3-0; the Ladies' 5ths drew 0-0 with Norwich City 3rds despite playing with no 'keeper for the majority of the game; the Ladies' 6ths beat Norwich City 5ths 2-0 to enhance their impressive record of six wins and a draw from their last eight matches; the Girls Development recorded their third successive win by beating Pelicans 4-1 away and the Men's 5ths became the first team this season to take points off Lowestoft Railway when they deservedly drew 1-1 with an equaliser from Roger Kent who was on hand to force the ball home at a penalty corner before James Graham capped a good goalkeeping display with a penalty stroke save.  

Meanwhile the Men's 7ths retained their 100% record by beating Norfolk Nomads 1-0. The team went into battle (correction – the game) with the following inspiring message from the absent King Peter of Dolton ('Pete' doesn't sound quite right in this context!) ringing in their ears. 'Men of Harleston 7ths your day of destiny has dawned. Go to it with a clear mind and rout the forces of evil. The eyes of the world are on you especially here in Bristol. Please send message when victory is ours'.  Luckily Simon Bardwell rose to the challenge with the late winner as did skipper Murray Graham (yes – James' Dad) with his first clean sheet for seven weeks. This column can be hard hitting at times!

After their defeats last Saturday the Men's 3rds and 4ths need points this coming Saturday when they entertain IES (2.15) and Pelicans 2nds (12.15) respectively while the Men's 7ths welcome Norwich City 6ths who they beat 11-3 away back in October while in rearranged matches at Weybread the Ladies' 3rds will hope to get back to winning ways against Thetford (1.45) while the Ladies' 6ths take on Herlings (10.30). Away from home the Ladies' 4ths play Yarmouth 2nds (1.00) looking to move even closer to the league title while the Ladies 2nds travel to take on Cambridge University (12.00) and the Men's 2nds, after their excellent 3-2 away win over Harpenden with goals by Robbie Kinsella (2) and James Legg, are away to Long Sutton (1.00) and the Men's 6ths are away to Norwich City 5ths (1.00) after their good 2-2 draw at Watton. Will Jonathan Aldridge be able to force his way back into the team when he is fit?! Good luck to all our teams in action this weekend including the Men's Veterans who are away on Sunday in the EHB Cup to Bishops Stortford (2.00). In the same clash some four years ago Magpies triumphed 2-1 with two very late goals.

Other news and comment

·         Unfortunately all our youth teams are now out of their respective EHB competitions with the 2-0 Plate defeat of the U16 Girls by Old Loughtonians and the 5-3 Cup defeat of the U16 Boys by City of Peterborough. The scorers for Magpies were Mitchell Tompkins (2) and Tom Graham.

·         A lot of 'behind the scenes' work is carried out on behalf of the club and I have in mind as examples (and with thanks) the repair last weekend of the electronic scoreboard by John Moore and the recent replacement of two floodlight lamps (bulbs to me) by Andrew Longe. The floodlight columns are brought down by a counter balance - a job that Andrew has been doing since 1991!  

Mike Denham   01603 506925    MDenham975@aol.com   15/2/11   

Magpies 2s vs Lincoln 1s

After an early start and a long journey to Lincoln, Magpies knew this was going to be a tough match, with Lincoln just one point below them in the table. A disorganised start (through no fault of their own) left Magpies unsettled with only a short warm-up to get themselves prepared. The 2s were also without several regular players and welcomed Kira Wooltorton and Lottie Nickson to the forward line from the 3rds.

The first half was rather uneventful, apart from some very questionable umpiring and a green card for Lauren Mickleburgh for an apparently bad tackle! Magpies defended solidly to keep the Lincoln forwards at bay, and a slightly busier than usual Flora Marfleet made some outstanding saves in goal to make sure the teams went into the break level.

The second half started unexpectedly with the Magpies players still carrying water bottles across the pitch!!! After some rather strong language the Magpies players quickly calmed down and were soon playing some beautiful hockey up the flanks to create a number of chances. Laura Tibbenham followed this up with a fantastic individual run around the last defender and was only prevented from scoring by a brilliant save from the Lincoln Keeper. Some fabulous attacking play down the left from Lauren Barber and Keira Booty continued to put the Lincoln defence under pressure.

Lincoln pushed hard in the last 15minutes but some determined defending made penetrating the Magpies D difficult. Some more great saves from Flora in goal and a heroic goal-line save from a very ill Micayla Tootill made sure that Lincoln would remain goalless. The younger than normal Magpies team did extremely well in what turned out to be a very bad tempered game, and a 0-0 draw was thoroughly deserved.

Thanks go to Simon Marfleet for putting up with us all on such a long journey.

Player of the Match Flora Marfleet.

Dick of the Day Lauren Mickleburgh.

Harleston Magpies Mens 5ths – 1
Lowestoft Railway Mens 1s – 1

This weekend saw the Men’s 5ths taking on Lowestoft Railway in a top of the table clash. Although Railway were 10 points clear, this was an all important game for Magpies who were hoping to further solidify their second place position in the league.

It was always going to be a tough game and it proved to be just that. Magpies had most of the possession in the first half, along with the territory. This was down to some solid defensive play and great marking from the backline right up to the forwards. Tireless marking from the whole team and terrier like tackling kept Railways attacking chances to a minimum. Harleston were calm on the ball and were building some well structured attacks. A fine chance came in the first half through some nifty stick work and a great ball into the D from George Moore for Roger Kent to deflect the ball just over the bar. Railway looked threatening on a number of occasions with some chances from short corners which were quelled by the magpies defence. Deben Nelson was on fine form at left back providing some searching balls which Magpies were not getting on to. Going into half time it was 0-0.

The second half started much the same as the first and the pace did not let up. Railway were first to score in open play from a well worked attack. Magpies did not let their heads drop and continued to build attacks and defend hard. A well deserved goal finally came through Roger Kent. At 1-1 things continued to be evenly matched between the two sides and the tempo did not slow. Railway were awarded a stroke following a foot in the D that prevented a goal scoring opportunity and Magpies became a little worried. Harleston need not have worried as James Graham made the save to keep the score at 1-1.

A draw was a good result and Magpies maintain their second place in the league one point ahead of Holt Harlequins. The 5ths have a rest this coming weekend before travelling away to IES on the 26th Feb. Magpies next big game is on the 5th of March when they entertain Holt who are pushing to deny them of the second promotion place.

Saturday 12 February
LADIES 1s v Old Loughtonians (L) (A) 1.30 3-0 W
LADIES 2s v Lincoln (L) (A) 12.00 0-0 D
LADIES 3 v Norwich City 2s (L) (H) 12.15 (S) 0-2 L
LADIES 4s v UEA 2s (L) (H) 4.00 (W) 3-0 W
LADIES 5s v Norwich City 3s (L) (H) 12.30 (W) 0-0 D
LADIES 6s v Norwich City 5s (L) (A) 11.30 2-0 W
GIRLS Dev. v Pelicans (L) (A) 10.30 4-1 W
MENS 2s v Harpenden (L) (A) 11.30 3-2 W
MENS 3s v March Town (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 1-3 L
MENS 4s v Ipswich 3s (L) (H) 1.45 (S) 1-4 L
MENS 5s v Lowestoft Railway (L) (H) 3.15 (S) 1-1 D
MENS 6s v Watton (L) (A) 2.30 2-2 D
MENS 7s v Norfolk Nomads (L) (A) 2.30 1-0 W
BOYS Dev. v Norwich Dragons/Watton (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 0-1 L
Sunday 13 February
MENS 1s v Indian Gymkhana (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 3-2 W
U16 GIRLS v Old Loughtonians (EHB Plate) (A) 1.00 0-2 L
U16 BOYS v City of Peterborough (EHB Cup) (A) 12.45 3-5 L

Harleston Magpies Men's 1st Vs. Indian Gymkhana 3 -2

Harleston went into this game following an away defeat to Oxted which allowed them to climb within three points of Harleston in league position. Magpies knew they need three points to keep themselves from being drawn towards the lower reaches of the league. Indian Gymkhana this season have been transformed into a top four side following last seasons near relegation from the National league so a good game was anticipated at Shotford Heath.

The opening exchanges were good with both sides looking to attack creating an open game and chances at both ends of the pitch. Harleston got the first break through as Gareth Furlong scored from a penalty corner. Magpies continued to pressurize the away side which lead to more chances for the home side as they took control of the first half. Andy Hipwell made multiple surges but with one of particular note leading to him hitting the post from a tight angle. On 24 minutes Harleston worked the ball into the Gym left hand side of the Dee for Jamie Legg to divert the ball under the disappointed Gym goalkeeper. Harleston were now firmly in control of the game passing the ball around well as half time approached. Magpies took a 2 – 0 lead at the interval.

Indian Gymkhana started the second half well straight at the home side trying to get themselves back into the game which they did with immediate affect as Amrit Singh stroked the ball passed Richard Harms in the Magpies goal. Harleston were now on the back foot as Gym sensed a comeback with the score at 2 – 1 to the home side. The game continued to flow as it did in the first half except this half Gym were pushing to score with Harleston still dangerous on the break. Indian Gym's progress was halted as continued foul play lead to the away side being reduced to 10 men for 5 minutes. Harleston pushed Gym back trying to extend their lead once again playing the ball through Gill, Baynes and Hipwell in midfield. Magpie's task then got harder as they were reduced to 10 men for five minutes. This just made Magpie's more resilient as Indian Gym pushed once again but without really creating clear cut opportunity. But suddenly they were handed a penalty stroke which was excellently saved by Richard Harms. Harleston were then back to eleven players when suddenly a miss communication between defender and keeper lead to Pravinder Hanspal stealing in on 52 minutes making the scores 2 -2. Magpies responded, once again looking dangerous in attack. On 59 minutes Simon and Andy Hipwell combined well before playing in Ben Wright for a running reverse stick shot which blasted the ball low past the helpless Gym keeper. Wright supplied a finish fitting to win any game but there was still much more hard work to come as Harleston were once again reduced to ten following another yellow card to the same player receiving his second yellow of the game. This meant a ten minute spell on the side reducing Harleston to ten for the final nine minutes. Magpies stood firm pulling together brilliantly to keep Gym at arm's length as Mark Wheelhouse, Richard Harms, Tristan Baynes and the outstanding Stuart Leate, all stand out performers on the day. Harleston Magpies saw out the final stages as Wrights stunning goal had settled the game 3 -2 to the home side.

Harleston Magpies Ladies 6th XI match report.

The weather was practically warm for our match against Norwich City 5 at UEA. The match started cautiously with Norwich City showing their muscle whilst we defended well and kept the ball well away from our goal. In fact, we had a whole series of short corners, yet, unluckily could not breach Norwich City's defence. The first half seemed to lack spirit and the opinion at half time was that we were following the ball and not keeping our width.

If the first half was lacklustre, we made up for it in the second half which started with a bang! Katie Webb smashed the ball across to Vanessa Vigrass on the Left Wing who controlled it and aimed it back at Katie Webb who sent it flying into the goal. Delighted with our quick result, play became focused and our passing more measured. A whole series of short passes resulted in Katie Webb almost pushing the ball towards the goal as we stood and watched it roll in. We held our breath during the final, and only, short corner for Norwich City which missed its mark and the whistle was blown.

Score: 2 – 0

Joanna Meyer

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1sts 3-0 Old Loughtonians

Magpies continued their run of form away to Old Loughtonians, comfortably winning 3-0. Magpies went into the game back to full strength with Emma Lee-Smith, Bryony Lund and Sarah Brook all available to play. This was an important fixture for Magpies, with Old Loughtonians sitting just one place ahead in the league with one more point.

Magpies started the game with the same commitment and pressure they finished with the previous weekend. The forwards Sarah Brook, Emily Wilford, Verity Blyth and Jess Howland worked hard all game and never allowed the defence much time on the ball to pick out a pass. Working together and closing down as a team was rewarded after 15 minutes when the Magpies press enabled Frances Sumner to intercept a ball just outside the circle to put Emma Lee-Smith through in on goal who executed a tight angle shot to put Magpies 1-0 up. Jess Howland was quick to react to another defensive error from Old Loughts after 26 minutes to calmly slot the ball into the back of the net. The last ten minutes of the half, Old Loughts stepped up the pressure and were rewarded with several consecutive penalty corners. Charlotte Lee-Smith had another good game in goal and pulled off some important saves to deny Old Loughts the opportunity to get back into the game just before half time.

The second half Magpies continued to look strong and Old Loughts never really looked threatening in front of goal. Solid defending throughout and key tackles picked off in midfield by Debbie Francis prevented the forwards getting through on goal. Verity Blyth sealed the victory to put Magpies 3-0 up on 45 minutes after a well worked passage of play between Emily Wilford and Emma Lee-Smith who put Blyth through in on goal after a neat piece of skill. Despite going down to 10 players on two separate occasions in the 2nd half, Magpies maintained their composure to keep a clean sheet and gain a well earned 3 points, which puts them up into 6th place in the league.

Magpies Ladies IV 3 - 0 UEA II

Magpies faced mid-table UEA in an early evening push back at Weybread, looking to maintain their lead at the top of Division One.

Magpies were hoping to make a strong start to the match, but struggled to find their rhythm in the fast-paced, open play of the early exchanges. And the home side had to defend well when UEA won two short corners midway through the half to keep the score at nil nil. However, it was Magpies who took the lead, winning their own short corner, which resulted in a Roo Barker goal from close range. The goal seemed to settle Magpies and they began to play their flowing hockey of previous matches. Karen Absolon got a second goal for Magpies, coming in off the right flank to strike sharply past the UEA 'keeper from a tight angle. Centre forward Kay Dennis found her good form of previous weeks and added a third for Magpies shortly before the half time whistle.

The second half saw UEA have more of the possession but Magpies stayed strong at the back, with Captain Kristina Erith in the Magpies goal pulling off a magnificent stick save going down to her right, to keep her clean sheet. Magpies went close to extending their advantage through Kay Dennis and Laura Schultheiss, but they couldn't find the back of the net for the fourth time.

A much better display from Magpies, battling hard for any loose balls, and showing their desire to stay at the top of the league. Credit to all 14 players for their effort and determination, but special mention must go to Bella Hall at the heart of the Magpies defence for her commanding performance, and to Rosie Blackmore in the midfiled for her outstanding display controlling the midfield.


Kay Dennis, Magpies Ladies 4th's.

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies are away this Saturday when they play Old Loughtonians starting at 1.30 in their England Hockey League game. Two terrific wins last weekend against Horsham at home and against unbeaten League leaders Surbiton away will have given the whole squad a terrific boost of confidence, as they have taken their outstanding Indoor form into the outdoor game. Both wins were thoroughly deserved. Remarkably Magpies were unable to put out a full strength side for either game and on both days operated with a very small squad. Unfortunately Bryony Lund's attempt to come back from injury on Saturday did not work out for her and it seems that she needs more recovery time. Sarah Brook also capped a tremendous League debut on Saturday with a cool head to score the second goal. She was away at Lilleshall on Sunday for further England assessments. In Saturdays game Magpies had three forwards aged 15, 17 and 15 years old operating at different times and another 17 year old forward playing on Sunday.

Old Loughtonians are one place and one point ahead of Magpies and they also had a good weekend beating Dereham away and drawing at home with Chelmsford. Magpies remain in 7th place after the weekend but they have turned a gap of two points from the relegation zone into a seven point gap which is a massive turn around.

SQUAD FROM:

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

TOP LADIES

If the Men's 1sts deserved their top billing last week the Ladies' 1sts certainly deserve that accolade this week following their double-header wins over Horsham and Surbiton which have transformed their season. Their 2-1 home win over Horsham was more comfortable than the score line might suggest and but for their faulty penalty corner routine their victory would have been far more decisive thereby preventing the nervy last few minutes after Horsham's well hit shortie.  To beat undefeated league leaders Surbiton next day, strengthened by the return to the squad of Emma Lee-Smith and Emily Wilford, who both found the net, was an even finer achievement and a tribute to the determination and fighting spirit of the squad exemplified on Saturday by the performances of Debbie Francis in the middle and at the back by skipper and goal scorer Louisa Greenacre.  Those of us who have followed Sarah Brook's progress over the past few seasons will have been delighted with her promising debut on Saturday at the age of 15 highlighted by her goal. This Saturday the team is away to Old Loughtonians (1.30) looking for more points to further distance them from the relegation zone.

In contrast it was not a good weekend for the Men's 1sts who lost 2-0 away to Oxted on Sunday with five regulars missing due to injuries and work commitments. With other results over what was a double-header weekend for several teams going against us the bottom half of the league has tightened up considerably making this Sunday's home game versus Indian Gymkhana (2.15) even more important.

On a splendid Saturday for the club (9 wins, 4 draws and no defeats) there were other highlights apart from the Ladies' 1sts. The Men's 7ths recorded their thirteenth straight win by beating North Walsham 3rds 12-1 with nine players finding the net including two from Steve Halliley on his welcome debut but questions need to be asked over the team's failure to keep a clean sheet for the fifth consecutive week! The Men's 6ths played really well to beat league leaders Norwich City 4ths 4-1 with all the goals coming from James Bensley supported by father Rob at the back. Confined to the bench through injury stand-in manager Jonathan Aldridge brought a new tactic to the game by starting with just 10 players with others sitting on the bench – or was this a counting failure?!

The Men's 4ths gained a much needed win by beating North Walsham 2-1 with goals by Pete Coulthart (who has made a welcome return to the club) and Sam Ashurst with Andy Palmer starring in goal. The Ladies' 2nds, 4ths and 5ths all won without conceding although the 2nds struggled to score against lowly Cambridge City 2nds before they took the lead through Keira Booty at the end of an extravagant penalty corner routine followed shortly by a second from Lauren Barber.  The Men's 5ths won for the seventh successive game while there were draws for the Ladies' 3rds who conceded shortly before the end in their 1-1 game with Watton 2nds, for the Men's 2nds who finished 3-3 against Letchworth for the second time this season and for the Men's 3rds who drew 1-1 away to Market Deeping. In an end-to-end thriller Sam Moore with two goals, the second thrashed high into the net from the right, and Philip Cobbald with a turn and shot at the left post helped the 2nds to come from behind before twice taking the lead prior to Letchworth's disputed third and skipper Matt Brand scored for the fourth-placed 3rds who entertain league leaders March on Saturday (2.15).

In other matches at Weybread this Saturday the Ladies' 3rds will be looking to get back to winning ways when they play Norwich City 2nds (12.15) while third-placed Ladies' 5ths play Norwich City 3rds (12.30) and Ladies' 4ths, eight points clear at the top of their league, take on UEA 2nds (4.00). Also at home are the Boys' Development who play Norwich Dragons/Watton (10.30); the Men's 4ths who will be out to beat Ipswich 3rds (1.45) for the three points to take them further away from the relegation zone and, in what could turn out to be the most exciting clash of the day, the Men's 5ths who are in third place welcome the 100% leaders Lowestoft Railway (3.15). Meantime the Ladies' 2nds travel to play Lincoln (12.00), the Men's 2nds travel to Harpenden (11.30) and the Ladies' 6ths are away to bottom-placed Norwich City 5ths (11.30). Best of luck to all our teams in action this weekend (a full list of fixtures can be found on the website) including on Sunday the U16 Boys who are away to City of Peterborough (12.45) in the EHB Cup and the U16 Girls who are in EHB Plate action away to Old Loughtonians (1.00).

Other comments in brief

·         Congratulations to the Mixed team who came from 2-0 down at half time on Sunday away to Norwich City in their EHB Trophy clash to win 4-2 with goals by Gavin Cole, Martin Fields (2) and Lauren Barber.

·         I'm told that Surbiton Ladies' loss on Sunday was their first home defeat for three years.

Mike Denham   01603 506925    MDenham975@aol.com   8/2/11   

Magpies Back to Full Strength?

Magpies returned pointless from their trip to Oxted. A much below strength side fought hard against a side whose defence looked frail, however Magpies finishing was poor and the long trip home focussed on what might have been.

Magpies wait on the fitness of Andy Hipwell, Carl Sitch and Ben Wright who could all make it for the vital visit of Indian Gymkhana on Sunday push back 2.15 pm. Pete Bale, in fine form against Holcombe, returns following unavailability through work commitments. Dan Legg keeps his place in the squad after an encouraging league debut at Oxted.

Magpies opponents have built up a fine record at home but the travel to Weybred together with the contrast in pitch conditions to their home ground will act in Magpies favour. With Sevenoaks revival following bedding down of their recent signings this game becomes of huge importance to Magpies who need to pick up further points to ensure they are not sucked in to a relegation battle. The league table is very tight with most sides capable of beating their opponents on their day. . With a fully fit squad and home advantage Magpies should pick up points however a number of players will need to improve on last weekend’s performance if this is to become a reality.


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

Saturday 5 February
LADIES 1s v Horsham (L) (H) 12.30 (W) 2-1 W
LADIES 2s v Cambridge City 2s (L) (H) 1.45 (S) 2-0 W
LADIES 3 v Watton 2s (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 1-1 D
LADIES 4s v Broadland 2s (L) (A) 2.30 1-0 W
LADIES 5s v UEA 2s (L) (A) 11.30 2-0 W
LADIES 6s v Thetford 2s (F) (A) 2.00
GIRLS Dev. v Dereham (L) (H) 3.15 (S) 1-0 W

MENS 2s v Letchworth (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 3-3 D
MENS 3s v Market Deeping (L) (A) 1.00 1-1 D
MENS 4s v North Walsham (L) (A) 4.00 2-1 W
MENS 5s v Norwich City 3s (L) (A) 4.00 2-1 W
MENS 6s v Norwich City 4s (L) (H) 4.00 (W) 4-1 W
MENS 7s v North Walsham 3s (L) (H) 12.15 (S) 12-1 W
BOYS Dev. v Dereham (L) (A) 3.45 1-1 D

Sunday 6 February
LADIES 1s v Surbiton (L) (A) 12.00 2-1 W

MENS 1s v Oxted (L) (A) 1.30 0-2 L
MIXED v Norwich City (EHB Trophy) (A) 1.30 4-2 W

Oxted Men's 1st Vs Harleston Magpies Men's 1st 2 - 0

Harleston Magpies travelled down to Oxted with a changed squad due to injury and work commitments. They were however still in confident of being able to get a result against a side below them in the league.

Oxted started brightly carrying an attacking threat to the Harleston defence as they looked to transfer the ball quickly from back to front with long passes. Harleston sloppy play cost them as Oxted broke into Dee down there right before the forward Neil Turk squared the ball only to deflect past the helpless Richard Harms off the Magpies defenders foot. Oxted took the lead on 6 minutes. As the half went on Harleston took more and more control of the game. Oxted went down to 10 men after receiving a yellow card. The chances came for Magpies through both open play from well worked moves down the Harleston right and a number of short corner opportunities. The Oxted goal keeper made good saves first down to his right as well as with his hands. Oxted did still carry a threat going forward but mainly feeding from Harleston errors and breaking forward with pace. Oxted survived to half time with their lead intact at 1 -0.

The pattern of the game was now set as Harleston continued to pressure Oxted creating yet more chances after the break. Again the chances came in both open play and short corner form. Oxted did still carry there attacking threat and had one or two short corner chances of their own as the game flowed. Again Harleston had a hand in their own down fall as they gave away cheap possession for Oxted to break away and score making it 2 – 0 on 58 minutes through Jonathan Wilkes-Green. Harleston still continued to forge chances as they tried to fight back throwing men forward but lacked the finishing touch. This did however leave them open at the back to the counter attack. Harleston received a yellow card making the task harder as Oxted broke quickly. Then Oxted received their second yellow of the game after foul play. This was then followed by another Yellow for Harleston after a collision. Over all Harleston will feel they had the greater of the chances but Oxted proved clinical in taking there's. Resulting in a 2 – 0 away defeat for Harleston Magpies.

Magpies - 2 wins in double header weekend

Magpies Ladies 1st team came away delighted with two wins and all 6 points this weekend as the National League outdoor season got underway. Magpies knew that they were heading into a tough weekend of fixtures, playing Horsham who were six points ahead of them on the Saturday and facing the undefeated league leaders, Surbiton away on the Sunday.

Harleston Magies Ladies 1sts 2-1 Horsham

Magpies dominated the whole of the first half and were rarely troubled in defence. Pressure from the Magpies forwards and midfield forced Horsham to make mistakes and enabled Magpies to have several chances in front of goal. Magpies were eventually rewarded with a goal from a short corner strike by Louisa Greenacre just before half-time. Horsham came out after half time with an increased momentum and started to look a little more dangerous on the break. However, Magpies workrate from forwards through to defence meant that Horsham rarely got into the circle. Sarah Brook scored her first National League goal from a well worked penalty corner from Artemis Clark after 44 minutes. Magpies were looking comfortable leading at 2-0, however they were in for a nerve wrackling last few minutes after Horsham broke away and converted a penalty corner with 8 minutes before then end. Magpies dug deep and held on for a thoroughly deserved 3 points.

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1sts 2-1 Surbiton

Magpies started the Surbiton game with the continued committment and confidence that they finished with on the previous day. Emma Lee-Smith and Emily Wilford were available to play and rejoined the team for the Sunday, both Lee-Smith and Wilford went on to score one a piece as Magpies picked up a well deserved 3 points against the league leaders. The game started at a very quick tempo, but Magpies put together another all round excellent team performace as they constantly hassled the league leaders and forced mistakes from the start. Emma Lee-Smith caused trouble for the Surbiton defence throughout the first half and was only narrowly denied from scoring by a superb save from the Surbiton keeper. Charlotte Harrison and Artemis Clark both had excellent games down the right and left flanks which released the forwards for several attacking opportunities. Magpies defence of Louisa Greenace, Katrina Warnes and Lucy Miller marked tightly all game and rarely allowed Surbiton in on goal. Magpies went 1-0 into half time as Emma Lee-Smith was rewarded with a goal after her reverse stick shot beat the keeper from the top of the circle. Surbiton came out after half time and hit Magpies with a couple of attempts into the circle, however Magpies broke quickly with a counter attack and Verity Blyth put Emily Wilford through for a one on one with the keeper who calmly converted after several minutes into the 2nd half. Magpies maintained their workrate and closed down the Surbiton players as soon as they had the ball. Only a rare defensive error allowed Surbiton back into the game after 45 minutes. Magpies regrouped and continued ti battle hard throughout the remaining 20 minutes of the game to produce a gritty performance, including several superb saves from Charlotte Lee-Smith in goal to hold on to their deserved victory.

The two wins put Magpies on 14 points - only one point off 6th place Old Loughtonians, who they are facing away from home next Saturday, and 5 points clear from 8th placed St. Albans.

Magpies 2s vs. Cambridge City 2s

After their well earned draw last week against top of the league Wisbech, Magpies this week faced Cambridge City a team who occupy the other end of the table! With this huge contrast of games, Magpies were confident they could gain a victory after their outstanding performance the week before.

Magpies started well maintaining possession for the majority of the first half with strong defensive skills from Amy Brook, Micayla Tootill, Melissa Hunter and Siobhan Wooltorton stopping any Cambridge threats from the odd break. Magpies were unlucky not to score in the first half despite having a number of chances, and the teams went into half time equal at 0-0.

The second half brought Magpies more luck and they earned themselves many short corners, however, after some good defending from Cambridge City and some good saves from ex-magpie Vanessa Brown in goal, Magpies remained goalless. This was until a great call from coach Jason Harness saw Magpies change their short corner routine and a brilliant cross from Lauren Mickleburgh, was tapped in behind the keeper by Keira Booty to give Magpies a 1-0 lead. Shortly after, Lauren Barber scored the second goal of the game from her great positioning in the circle. Cambridge City attempted to fight back hard and managed a break with 5 minutes to go. This gave goalkeeper Flora Marfleet her first real action of the game. An unlucky moment saw the ball fall to the Cambridge Centre forward, and horror struck as magpies saw the ball in the back of their net! Fate however was on Magpies side as the goal was quickly disallowed, the Cambridge player having slotted the ball home with her thigh!

This near miss motivated Magpies to push through to the end as they realised what Cambridge City could be capable of. It was a well fought game from both teams and Magpies got a well deserved victory after a fantastic team effort.

Final Score 2-0 to Magpies.

Congratulations go to Lauren barber and Krystal Bishop for sharing the player of the match award this week.