Norfolk Nomads 2nds 0 Harleston Magpies 7ths 7

Magpies warm up routine for this top v bottom game was mainly the long walk from the car park that takes you some way away from the pitch before having paid 60p for the privilege one turns through 180 degrees and walk a similar distance back.

The excess of strikers for the last game was replaced by a dearth and necessitated Simon Bardwell to attempt an impersonation of Roger Kent 'up front'.

Magpies dominated possession from the start and took the lead after four minutes when Alistair Wilkinson played a pass to Jon Wells and despite being surprised by the immediate return pass (or was it a poor first touch) placed a shot wide of the goalkeeper. Jon Wells then scored direct from a short corner.

There then followed a hat trick by Simon Bardwell- and please dear reader I am not writing this on 1st April. There was even a chance of a fourth goal to Simon for when well positioned for a simple tap in, it took a last second interception by Jon Wells to divert the ball wide of the post at the expense of a 16 yard hit out to Nomads. It should be noted that the total distance of the three scoring shots was less than his height.

Joe, the poacher, Walker claimed another as did Alistair and a shot from Peter Dolton could cause the dubious goals panel to convene again.

Nomads never gave up and did have a chance when a loose ball fell to an marked forward but Murray was fast off his line to smoother the shot and so preserve another clean sheet- please note.

Next week, the 7ths have centre stage on the water pitch at the peak viewing time at Weybread for their last game of the season and an attempt to finish the season with 100% record.

HARLESTON MAGPIES GIRLS U12 A and B TEAMS AT THE DEREHAM TOURNAMENT

Harleston Magpies Girls U12A team having finished second in the County Finals and first in the Watton Tournament in the previous two weeks came back to earth with a bump, when they finished fourth at the Dereham Tournament.

With the Tournament in two sections Magpies needed to start with a win but a very indifferent performance saw them draw 0-0 with Dereham B. The team was slightly disrupted by the absence of a late arrival but they should still have been able to score. The next game against Norwich City A the County winners saw Magpies play much better in a hard fought 0-0 draw. Magpies finally started scoring goals when they beat Norwich Dragons 2-0 and finished off their section game with a 1-0 win against Watton.

As the runners up in their section Magpies played Pelicans in the third /fourth play off. Pelicans quickly took a 2-0 lead and despite Magpies pulling a goal back to make it 2-1 it was too late.

With Magpies playing in the East Finals on Saturday April 16th at Harleston, they will need to raise their game considerably on this big occasion.

Magpies A team

Eliza Bell, Lucie Gooch, Sophie Dixon, Amy Ryder, Anna Harrod, Isobel Knowles, Elle Eglington and Georgina Warren



Harleston Magpies Girls U12 B team had a rare chance to play in a Tournament and for four of them this was their first Tournament.

They started really well losing narrowly 1-0 against Norwich City B team. Two very difficult matches saw them lose 3-0 to Dereham A and 4-0 to Pelicans. In their game against Dereham C they were very unlucky to draw 0-0 as they hit the post and had several other good chances.

In the cross over play offs they drew 0-0 with Watton which was a very good result and performance. They worked very hard as a team and continued to improve throughout the Tournament and this was a great experience for them. They finished 8th . Thanks to Lisa Dobson for running the team.

Magpies B team

Kitty Gooch, Mia Gower, Hannah Dobson, Ellie May-Harvey, Maddy Felton, Lavinia Carless, Sophie Bodmore and Ella Beal

Southgate Men's 1st Vs Harleston Magpies Men's 1st 5 – 1

Harleston visited the already winner of the league title Southgate for their final match of the season.

The game started brightly with both teams looking to attack each other each trying to take the lead. Southgate shaded the opening exchanges as they looked dangerous in attack stretching the Harleston defence who were able to cope with the home side. After five minutes Harleston had gained more control on the game as they started to cause the Southgate defence problems of their own. The game was now end to end with both sides causing the other problems meaning it was only a matter of time before one team scored. Harleston took the lead when Andrew Hipwell skipped passed two defenders before lashing the ball past the helpless goal keeper making it 0 – 1 to the away side. Five minutes later Southgate responded back after winning a short a well worked routine saw Robert Schilling divert the ball in making the scores level 1 – 1. The rest of the half continued at high pass with both sides still looking dangerous in attack. Harleston also won a couple of short corners but the Southgate goalkeeper was excellent on the day. Scores 1 – 1 in after an even half of hockey.

Second half started much on the same pattern as the first but this time Southgate managed to score after 5 minutes through Adam Wilson making it 2 -1. Southgate then grew in confidence as it wasn't long before they added a third on 48 minutes after a disputed short corner award saw Adam Wilson grab his second of the afternoon making it 3 -1 to the home side. Five minutes later Johannes Kloess then added a superb short corner strike making it 4 – 1. Harleston continued battling but ran out of legs as Southgate dominated the second half. Their final goal came as a result of a defensive mix up enabling Johannes Kloess to score his second of the game sealing the win for the champions 5 – 1.

Despite the loss Harleston have had a fantastic season finishing 5th in this very competitive league of ten teams two places better they achieved last term marking the improvement the team have made over the last couple of seasons. Many thanks must go to Robert Stimpson (manager), Bill Williams (coach) and Phil Cobbald (coach) for all their hard work over the season.

Saturday 26 March
LADIES 1s v Chelmsford (L) (H) 2.00 (W) 2-2 D
LADIES 2s v Cambridge University (L) (H) 12.00 (W) 0-1 L
MENS 2s v Cambridge University 2s (L) (H) 1.45 (S) 3-1 W
MENS 3s v Cambridge University 3s (L) (A) 12.00 3-4 L
MENS 4s v Bury St Edmunds 2s (L) (A) 11.00 2-2 D
MENS 5s v Felixstowe 2s (L) (A) 11.30 3-2 W & promotion
MENS 6s v Bury St Edmunds 3s (L) (H) 3.15 (S) 1-2 L
MENS 7s v Norfolk Nomads 2s (L) (A) 2.30 7-0 W
BOYS Dev. v Norwich City (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 1-3 L

Sunday 27 March 
MENS 1s v Southgate (L) (A) 2.00 1-5 L U10
Boys – Dereham Minis 2nd & 4th U12
Boys – Dereham Minis 2nd
U10 Girls – Dereham Minis 2nd & 4th
U12 Girls – Dereham Minis 4th & 8th

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1sts 2-2 Chelmsford

Magpies entertained Chelmsford at home for their last league game of the season. Magpies were determined to finish the season on a high and make amends for their 5-0 loss against Chelmsford at the start of the season. As expected, the match was played at a good tempo and involved quick attaching breaks from both sides. Magpies dominated the start of the game and had several chances early on to take the lead, including from Charlotte Harrison and Debbie Francis who narrowly missed putting Magpies ahead. Chelmsford went 1-0 against the run of play from a penalty corner deflection after 19 minutes. However, Magpies maintained their composure and tirelessly pressed the opposition to force defensive errors. Emma Lee-Smith after 27 minutes powerfully struck a short-corner strike for Lucy Miller to clean up from the defender on the line to level the score line. Just 3 minutes later, Lee-Smith picked up the ball from deep in the Magpies half and beat player after player before she slipped the ball to Verity Blyth on the backline who calmly slotted the ball home to put Magpies 2-1 up. Chelmsford hit Magpies hard after half time and broke through into the circle at pace on several occasions. Their renewed determination was rewarded with a penalty stroke conversion after 39 minutes to level the score to 2-2. The remainder of the game contained dangerous counter attacks from both sides, either side looking like scoring on several occasions. Lee-Smith continued to pose a constant threat to the Chelmsford defence, whilst Chelmsford were managing to get balls through the press to their forwards too easily which forced the Magpies defence to pull out all the stops. The point secured Magpies their 5th place slot in the league and can be proud of their excellent run since Christmas, picking up 7 wins, a draw and just one loss.

GOOD BALMY SATURDAY

Last Saturday was a particularly good day for three of our Men's teams as two banished lingering relegation concerns and one moved nearer to promotion with a combination of a huge win and the surprise defeat of one of the teams above them.

At an almost balmy Weybread the Men's 4ths had a must-win game against Ipswich Cranes and they came out on top by two goals to one in an exciting encounter. They went ahead in the first half when Ali Williamson found Paul Shelley unmarked on the right edge of the circle and with no colleagues to be seen Paul smashed the ball past the startled keeper from a narrow angle for one of the goals of the season. Ali then found the net himself early in the second half to make the game more comfortable for James Smith and his team before the visitors got a goal back and they looked to have got an equaliser which (with the score up on the scoreboard in a flash) was disallowed after the umpires conferred. This was the team's third victory in four games and a continuation of their timely return to form.

An hour after the conclusion to the game the excellent news came through that the Men's 1sts had won 5-1 away to now relegated Sevenoaks to finally remove the slim chance of being dragged into the relegation play-off spot - a position taken by St Albans after their recent revival. With this win the 1sts took their tally of points for the second half of the season to eleven and oddly their first against a team they took points off in the first half. This coming Sunday the team play their final match of the season away to Southgate (2.00) looking to repeat their opening day victory over the league champions. NB. Robert Stimpson is hoping to run a coach to this game with spectators very welcome at £10 per head. If you are interested please give Robert a call on 01728 685885 or 07976 741719 (M).

After taking just three points from their previous four games the Men's 5ths went into their home game against North Walsham 2nds needing a win (and another one this Saturday) and a slip-up from Holt Harlequins in one of their last two games to clinch the second promotion spot alongside champions Lowestoft Railway. The win duly came with the score line Men's 5ths 13 (Roger Kent 0!) North Walsham 2nds 0 and the hoped-for slip-up came when Holt Harlequins lost 4-2 away to IES 2nds. This leaves the 5ths requiring an away win over Felixstowe 2nds this Saturday (11.30) to ensure they keep ahead of the in-form Norwich City 3rds who have an easy looking game away to Pelicans 3rds and Holt Harlequins who have a difficult home game with the champions.

In other home games last Saturday the Ladies' 4ths continued their triumphant season with a 3-0 win over Yarmouth 2nds with goals by Beth Alexander, Rachel Peters and Kay Dennis (the team's excellent press officer); the Men's 3rds let slip a two-goal lead over Norwich City 2nds to draw 2-2 (Tiger Brice 2) in an exciting game and the Boys Development beat Norwich City 2-1.

On Sunday the excellent run of victories by the Ladies' 1sts came to an end against Sevenoaks who scored the only goal of the match (a deflection) with their only shot and this was enough for them to clinch the league title. Magpies dominated the first 20 minutes of the game and with their overall performance deserved at least a draw but it was not to be with Emma Lee-Smith being denied by two excellent saves. The team complete their season's programme when they entertain second placed Chelmsford on Saturday (NB 2.00) seeking to make up for their 5-0 defeat by the Essex side on the opening day of the season.   

All of a sudden the league season is over for most of our Ladies' teams but there are two important games remaining for the Ladies' 2nds who after their recent run of poor results need a home win over second placed Cambridge University this Saturday (NB 12.00) and possibly another next week over IES to avoid relegation. 

Other news

·         Congratulations and best wishes to Angie and Colin Wheelhouse on the birth of Ethan George who arrived at 2.55am last Friday weighing in at 6lb 8ozs. Ethan's arrival gives Angie plenty of time to prepare for next season with Colin left holding the baby!

·         Help will be needed in the kitchen during the Magpies Tournament, i.e. Saturday 30 April and Monday 2 May. If you are kindly able to help fill one or more of the two-hour slots would you please contact either Kirstin Cumming (Tel: 01986 788439) or Daphne Beckett (kerrison@dmbeck.wanadoo.co.uk).

·         Well done to the Mixed team who moved into the last 16 of the EHB Trophy with their 6-0 away win over Luton.

Please see the Home Page of the website for a full list of this weekend's games which include the U10 and U12 Boys and Girls in the Dereham Minis after their excellent results last Sunday in the Watton Minis. Good luck to all our teams.

Mike Denham   MDenham975@aol.com   22/3/11   

Magpies Visit League Champions

Magpies returned to winning ways at the weekend when they comprehensively beat bottom of the table Sevenoaks 5-1. This win effectively ensured Sevenoaks relegation and put Magpies into fifth position in the table.

This week sees the final league game being a visit to Southgate who last weekend secured the league title. With Southgate now entering the play offs for a position in the Premier League the London side are likely to try to continue their winning ways as preparation for the play offs.

Magpies will rely on the same squad as last weekend with Carl Sitch fully recovered from his injury. Andy Bedwell keeps his place after another encouraging performance.

Team from; Richard Harms; David Ling(Capt);Andy Hipwell;Tristan Baynes;;Will Martin;Richard Gill;Gareth Furlong;James Fanger;Stuart Leate;Andy Bedwell;Mark Wheelhouse;Carl Sitch;Pete Bale;Robbie Kinsella;

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies play their final League game of the season on Saturday when they play Chelmsford at home starting at 2.00. All matches have to start at 2.00 although ironically the League winners and relegation issues have already been resolved.

Magpies great run of seven straight League wins came to end last week when they lost 1-0 at home to Sevenoaks, who in doing so clinched the League title. Magpies had several great chances to score but in the end were beaten by a penalty corner strike. Ironically Charlotte in the Magpies goal never touched the ball all game.

Chelmsford are currently second in the League so this will a testing final game of the season. Chelmsford are the highest goal scorers in the League so it promises to be an attacking game of hockey, and Magpies will not need reminding that they lost 5-0 away to them in the opening game of the season back in September.

Magpies are currently in 5th place in the League and they need a result to hang on to that position. Reflecting on the season Magpies had a very difficult first half of the season securing only eight points but have already picked up twenty one points in the second half of the season.


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

HARLESTON MAGPIES U12 GIRLS WIN THE WATTON TOURNAMENT

Harleston Magpies U12 Girls finished as winners of the Watton Tournament. Having finished as runners up in the Norfolk Championship the week before they went one step further this time against the same teams, including a win over Norwich City who finished first last time. Next week the Dereham Tournament followed by the East Finals on Saturday April 16th.


Dreham A – Drew 0-0

Pelicans Won 1-0

Dereham B Won 2-0

Norwich City Won 1-0

Watton Won 3-0


Team: ElizaBell, Emily Hunt, Sophie Dixon, Amy Ryder, Sophie Child, Georgina Warren, Elle Eglington, Anna Harrod and Issy Knowles

Saturday 19 March
LADIES 2s v Watton (L) (A) 1.00 0-5 L
LADIES 3 v Thetford (L) (A) 10.00 0-3 L
LADIES 4s v Yarmouth 2s (L) (H) 12.15 (S) 3-0 W
LADIES 5s v Norwich Dragons 3s (L) (A) 12.00 2-2 D
LADIES 6s v Herlings (L) (A) 2.00 0-1 L
GIRLS Dev. v North Walsham (L) (H) W/O 3-0 W
MENS 1s v Sevenoaks (L) (A) 1.30 5-1 W
MENS 2s v Norwich City (L) (A) 11.30 2-2 D
MENS 3s v Norwich City 2s (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 2-2 D
MENS 4s v Ipswich Cranes (L) (H) 12.30 (W) 2-1 W
MENS 5s v North Walsham 2s (L) (H) 4.00 (W) 13-0 W
MENS 6s v Ipswich Cranes 2s (L) (A) 1.00 4-0 W
MENS 7s – no game
BOYS Dev. v Norwich City (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 2-1 W
Sunday 20 March
LADIES 1s v Sevenoaks (L) (H) 12.30 (W) 0-1 L
MIXED v Luton (EHB Trophy) (A) 12.30 6-0 W
U10 BOYS' Minis - Watton 3rd
U12 BOYS' Minis - Watton 1st
U10 GIRLS' Minis - Watton 1st
U12 GIRLS' Minis - Watton 1st

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1sts 0-1 Sevenoaks

Magpies superb run of 7 consecutive wins since Christmas eventually came to an end with a narrow 1-0 defeat at home to league leaders Sevenoaks. Magpies produced a determined performance and were unlucky not to come away with something from the game. Magpies dominated the first half and had Sevenoaks pinned deep into their own half for a large part of the game. Emma Lee-Smith came the closest to scoring, but an excellent save from the keeper denied the home side a deserved lead. Despite the pressure and possession, Magpies were unable to capitalise early on and Sevenoaks gradually started to get back into the game.

The second half saw a much more attacking Sevenoaks, who started to look more threatening in front of goal as time went on. Magpies successfully defended several short corners and were able to counter attack with a very slick passage of play down the left, starting with Katrina Warnes and Bryony Lund, then up through to Emily Wilford who put Emma Lee-Smith through for a one on one with the keeper. Lee-Smith rounded the keeper, but was denied by a last ditch save from a Sevenoaks defender on the line.

Sevenoaks scored the first and only goal of the game on 52 minutes from a well worked short corner routine, which took a deflection on its way through to goal. However, Magpies were never out of the game and had several chances to draw the score line, despite going down to 10 players late in the half. The forwards created some excellent chances on goal and Emily Wilford was only inches away from converting on several occassions.

The 1-0 win takes Sevenoaks 4 points clear of 2nd place Chelmsford which secures them the league title. Magpies face Chelmsford at home in their final league game of the season next Saturday.

Harleston 2 – 1 Norwich City

Magpies put in another good performance to win for the second week running against a well-organised Norwich team. Magpies started slowly and found themselves under pressure for the first 10-minutes with Norwich looking dangerous on the attack and only a good save Jordan denied them the first goal. The team then tightened up their defensive responsibilities and slowly started to turn-the-tide with Jack Frere-Smith dominant in midfield. Jolyon Summers made a number of positive attacking runs and was eventually rewarded when he scored from the top of the circle with a well-struck shot. Half-time score 1-0.

Magpies continued to create chances in the second half and should have extended their lead but wasted the opportunities that came their way. Then with the team pushing forward they were caught on the counter-attack allowing City to score the equaliser. Rather than let their heads drop Magpies continued to push forward and a surging run from Jack Frere-Smith saw the City defence clear the ball to the top of the circle where it was picked up by Kieran who smashed the ball past the defender on the line into the goal to score the winning goal


This was another good team performance from Magpies with everyone contributing to the result.

Sevenoaks Men's 1s 1 - 5 Harleston Magpies Men's 1s

Harleston travelled away to Sevenoaks who before play were at the bottom of the league but still had all to play for as with two games to go were hopeful of overhauling St Albans in 9th position only two points ahead of them. If Sevenoaks were able to overhaul them to finish in 9th they would enter into a play-off situation. Magpies on the other hand before play were situated in Seventh, were hoping to push higher up the league aiming for a higher league finish than last season.

The away side started brightly, soon slipping into their stride passing the ball around well which in turn forced the home side onto the back foot during the opening ten minutes. Sevenoaks were trying to break quickly if Harleston made any errors but they were unable to break through the sturdy Harleston defence. Sevenoaks did then start to build some pressure onto the away side but again the away side were able to defend well restricting them to very limited chances. This only played into the away sides hands as Sevenoaks left themselves short at the back as Andrew Hipwell burst forward surging into the Dee lashing the ball across to Will Martin who applied the finishing touch making it 0 – 1 to the away side midway through the half. This spurred Harleston on as they once again resumed control of the game passing ball well once again. This pressure soon saw more chances for the away side as they looked to extend their lead further. As Half time approached they Won a short corner which Gareth Furlong converted from making it 0 -2. The final stages of the half continued with the away side looking to create more openings.

At the start of the second half Sevenoaks started to throw extra players forwards trying to get themselves back into the game as their whole season hanged on the result. Harleston knew the next goal was important and continued to push them forward at every chance looking dangerous as Sevenoaks again looked short at the back on occasion. The next goal was scored by Harleston, as Andrew Hipwell finished from close range following a well worked move by the away side making it 0 – 3. Magpies then turned the screw further making it 0 – 4 when Gareth Furlong scored. Sevenoaks did rally getting one back with a powerfully stuck reverse stick shot sneaking past Richard Harms pulling one back making it 1 – 4. Richard Harms was then called into action again making a couple of smart saves as Sevenoaks pilled men forward. This also led to a couple of short corners the second of which a penalty stroke was awarded to the home side offering them a life line in the game. It was missed as the ball crashed the inside of the post bouncing along the charmed Harleston goal. Harleston took this as a serious warning upping their game once again. Andrew Hipwell worked himself space down the left before cutting in and slotting calmly past the advancing Sevenoaks goalkeeper to totally kill any last ditch hopes for the hardworking Sevenoaks side.

These three points pushed Harleston up into fifth position in the league and cleared any lingering doubt that they'd be drawn in by the teams below them fighting against relegation.

Harleston Magpies Ladies 6th XI match report.

Fixture: Magpies vs Herlings

Our final match of the season was played against Herlings on their grass pitch. It was a perfect spring day and playing on grass would have been enjoyable had it not been such hard work. Herlings clearly had the advantage over us and scored a goal from a short corner. They dominated the game and were a strong team but with sheer effort from the defence, particularly, Jodie Guest (voted Player of the Season), the ball flew back and forth but remained away from our goal.

During the second half, we were playing uphill. Grace Pearson, (voted Player of the Match), played superbly, stopping every ball that came her way. Emily Mc Cluskey was the youngest player yet showed maturity in her passing skills and Jess Harvey, the goalkeeper made some fine saves. Despite some injuries, we battled hard against Herlings and the game did become a bit defensive with the two teams bunched together, close marking. However the score didn't change and it was a reasonable end to the season.

Score: 0 – 1



Joanna Meyer

Magpies Ladies IV 3 - 0 Yarmouth II

League champions Magpies faced Yarmouth at home in their last league match of the season, and with a strong squad of 14, they were looking to finish on a high.

In lovely, sunny conditions, the home side started well, making their intentions clear from the outset, with some lovely flowing play through the midfield and forward lines. And it wasn't long before Magpies took the lead, a good ball through into the D found Beth Alexander who competently swept the ball past the Yarmouth 'keeper. Magpies made it two shortly after, with another good move; this time Rachel Peters was on the end of it to put the ball into the back of the net. Magpies continued to dominate possession, and with Yarmouth rarely breaking through the Magpies solid defence, the home side showed their class, moving the ball around with ease, in some of their best play of the season. Centre forward Kay Dennis made it three for the home side shortly before the break.

The second half saw Yarmouth have more of the possession in the early moments with Magpies unable to reassert their authority of the first half. However, with Captain Kristina Erith in the Magpies goal, determined as ever to keep a clean sheet, and Sarah Legg at the heart of the defence, nothing was going to spoil their day, and there was only ever going to be one winner. Towards the end of the half Magpies again dominated, winning several short corners but they could not find another goal.


A solid display from Magpies, ensuring that they win the league by a clear seven points, losing only two games, drawing one, and winning the remaining fifteen! What an achievement!

Special thanks must go to Captain Kristina Erith for her effort and commitment both on and off the pitch, it has been second to none, and with the lowest goals conceded in the league, her quality as a goalkeeper speaks for itself. Congratulations also to vice-captain and top-scorer Kay Dennis, who with her goal today, has beaten her own personal season goal-scoring record, netting a total of eighteen times.

But most of all thanks to all of the players that have made this season the best one ever, and who have been part of one of the best 4th eleven sides in recent years - congratulations go to: Claire Snelling, Gina Scott, Sarah Legg, Kaite Mound, Megg Eglington, Ginny Crawford, Bella Hall, Treacle Snelling, Rosie Blackmore, Roo Barker, Hannah Booty, Hannah Linger, Beth Alexander, Lucy Crawford, Laura Schultheiss, Rachel Peters, and Karen Absolon.

Bring on the Premier Division next season!

And, to finish, quote of the day from Rosie Blackmore: "Man up, and get back on it!".


Kay Dennis, Magpies Ladies 4th's.

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies continued their remarkable run last week with an away win over Dereham to make it seven straight wins since the start of the second half of the season. This Sunday Magpies are at home when they play the League leaders Sevenoaks with a 12.30 start. With two League games to go Sevenoaks are on the brink of clinching the League title as they are four points clear of second and third placed Surbiton and Chelmsford with a superior goal difference.

Magpies are a much improved team since Christmas and in that time they have twice beaten the then League leaders Surbiton away and then Ipswich away which has certainly helped Sevenoaks. In the earlier encounter back in November Magpies lost 2-1 away at Sevenoaks in a close game in which Magpies came close to picking up a useful point.

This will be the ultimate test for Magpies this season to measure the progress they have made and to see if they can keep this winning run going against the top team in the League. Sevenoaks have only conceded ten goals this season, which is a terrific achievement, so it will be important for Magpies not to give away cheap goals bearing in mind the difficulty they will have in breaking down their defence. In addition Sevenoaks have lost only one game all season.

Magpies will be without Lucy Fields but hope to see the return of Emma Lee-Smith this weekend.



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

HARLESTON MAGPIES U12 GIRLS FINISH AS RUNNERS UP IN THE NORFOLK CLUBS MINI HOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIP AND QUALIFY FOR THE EAST FINALS

Harleston Magpies Under 12 Girls finished as runners up in the Norfolk Club Championship and so qualified for the East Finals on the weekend of April 16th or 17th to be held at Harleston Magpies.

Magpies started slowly as they struggled in their first game against Norwich Dragons but eventually won 2-0 (Eliza Bell, Isobel Knowles). They showed much more confidence when beating Dereham B 3-0 with Sophie Dixon opening the scoring with a penalty corner strike and Anna Harrod and Eliza Bell adding further goals.

Magpies beat Watton 5-0 with goals from Eliza Bell 2, Georgina Warren, Anna Harrod and Isobel Knowles all chipping in with goals. Pelicans gave Magpies a real shock by taking the lead in their hardest game so far but Magpies fought back well and two goals from Isobel Knowles ensured Magpies kept their 100% record.

In their penultimate match Magpies met the favourites Norwich City and they played their best hockey of the Tournament and were very unlucky to lose 1-0. Magpies had two tremendous chances in the opening few minutes but just could not put them away. Norwich City then took the lead but Magpies still had several promising attacks where they had the numerical advantage but just could not find the equaliser.

This meant that in their final game Magpies needed a draw and Dereham needed a win to clinch second place. Magpies just hung on for the draw and were clearly suffering from the tremendous work they had put into the Norwich match. Fortunately Lucie Gooch in goal made a couple of important saves to ensure Magpies came second.

Squad: Eliza Bell (Capt), Lucie Gooch, Sophie Dixon, Amy Ryder, Sophie Child, Georgina Warren, Elle Eglington, Isobel Knowles and Anna Harrod.

On behalf of the Social and Fund Raising Committee I thank everyone who supported the Spring Prize Draw and last Saturday's Fun Quiz Evening. The SPD made a profit of £1250 and the prize winners drawn by the club's President were:

1st (£125) Mike Denham (sorry - but no fix I can assure you!), 2nd (£50 each) Helen Barber and Julie Tovell, 3rd (£25 each) David & Debbie Francis and John Baddeley.

The quiz drew an attendance of 80 members and relatives and our thanks go to Jose Tibbenham (for setting the questions), to Philippa Taylor (for putting the questions), to Julian Taylor (for helping to run the very enjoyable evening) and to Robert Stimpson and Kirstin Cumming for running the bar. Congratulations to the formidable Mackenzie/Osborn team for their triumph over the other 12 teams.

The club's social functions raise invaluable funds and help us to reduce our interest-free loans which now stand at £33400. A recent repayment cleared the last loan in respect of the water-based pitch put down in 2002 at a cost of £450,000. The outstanding figure is in respect of the recarpeting of the sand-based pitch in 2006 (at a cost of £165,000) and our thanks go again to all members and friends of the club for the important part they played, alongside our other funders, in making these vital developments possible.

Saturday's hockey at Weybread was overshadowed by a nasty knee injury sustained by Micayla Tootill while playing for the Ladies' 2nds against Saffron Walden. The game (eventually won 5-1 by the visitors) was understandably held up and then moved to the sand-based pitch while awaiting the ambulance. Best wishes Micayla for a speedy recovery. Our thanks go to Kirstin Cumming for the way she dealt with this emergency – another example of what we owe Kirstin week in and week out.

With Micayla safely in the ambulance and the Ladies' 2nds now on the other pitch the Men's 2nds were able to start their game against Wisbech on time but for the first half several players from each team seemed more interested in umpiring the game than playing in it! However, after the break the game settled down and Magpies did well to pull back a two-goal deficit to win with goals by skipper Lawrence Baynes, David Francis and Martin Fields – the latter with considerable help from Richard Ling making a welcome and successful return to the game. Like nearly all the men's sides last Saturday the team was down to just eleven players so Richard was not able to take a breather.

Earlier in the day the Boys' Development had a good win 2-1 win over Pelicans thereby helping to keep coach Stuart Peters in his job (!) thanks in no small part to goals by son Kieran and Matthew Bensley while the Men's 6ths had their best win of the season by beating then league leaders Sudbury 3rds 2-0. But they had keeper Andy Palmer to thank for their clean sheet when he pulled off a save late in the game which would have gladdened the heart of Gordon Banks! Meanwhile the Ladies 4ths, and already league champions, were getting over the surprise of their defeat the previous weekend by beating Pelicans 3rds 5-2 with Laura Schultheiss in great form.

Away from home the Ladies' 1sts recorded their seventh successive win (what a run!) by beating Dereham 4-1 with the help of two goals by Bryony Lund and the Men's 3rds made sure of avoiding one of the four relegation spots by coming from behind to beat Cambridge City 3rds 2-1 with goals by Gavin Cole and the evergreen Philip Cobbald. Congratulations also to the Girls' Development who clinched second place in their league with one game to play when they beat Norwich City 1-0.

I hardly need say that the all-conquering Men's 7ths beat second placed Felixstowe 3rds to retain their 100% record while the 10-man Men's 4ths gained a vital 2-1 win away to Thetford to keep alive their survival hopes with goals by Paul Shelley and Charlie Blandy. Unfortunately the Men's 5ths conceded a late goal in their 1-1 draw against Ipswich 4ths but promotion is still possible provided they win their last two matches and second placed Holt Harlequins slip up in one of their two remaining matches which includes a home game against unbeaten league champions Lowestoft Railway.

On Sunday the Men's 1sts gained a vital home point in their thrilling 4-4 draw with Bromley & Beckenham who the previous day had beaten Indian Gymkhana 6-1. Scorers for Magpies were Stuart Leate and Gareth Furlong with a hat trick from penalty corners. The team is away to bottom placed Sevenoaks (recent victors over league leaders Southgate!) on Saturday (1.30) seeking the one point to finally banish any lingering concerns over filling the relegation play-off spot while on Sunday at Weybread (12.30) the Ladies' 1sts face their toughest test of their remarkable second half of the season when they too play Sevenoaks who in contrast to their men are league leaders. For a full list of this weekend's fixtures please see the Home Page of the website. Good luck to all our teams including the Mixed who are away to Luton on Sunday (12.30).

Finally, congratulations to our teams who did so well in last Sunday's Norfolk Minis at Weybread with the U10 Girls finishing first and the U12s coming second while at Gresham's School the U12 Boys came first with the U10 Boys in second place. It is also 'well done' to the U13 Girls who beat City of Peterborough 2-1 and Dereham 1- 0 at Peterborough to top their East league.

Mike Denham MDenham975@aol.com 15/3/11

Harleston Magpies Men's 1st Vs Bromley and Beckenham Men's 1st


4 – 4

Harleston Magpies went into their last home game in vital need of some points to ease any relegation fears. Bromley on the other hand were looking at the other end of the table and trying to cement their place in the top four of the league.

Harleston started brightly taking the game to Bromley in the early stages. With Bromley on the back foot it wasn't long before the home side started creating opportunities which their play merited. Stuart Leate interchanged well with Tristan Baynes, before finding himself in space enough to score with his reverse stick shot enabling Magpies into a 1 -0 lead after 5 minutes. Harleston continued to dominate the possession whilst Bromley looked to break quickly to catch Harleston out on the counter attack but they were unable to ever penetrate the Harleston Dee enough to create good chances. Midway through the half Harleston extended their lead through Gareth Furlong from a short corner making it 2 – 0 to the home side who took even more control of the game as Bromley were reduced to 10 men for 5 minutes following a yellow card. Only for their extra man advantage to be short lived as then Magpies received their own yellow card also. Bromley then started to come more into the game as half time approached but Harleston kept the score 2 – 0 at half time.

The second half saw Bromley come out fighting putting early pressure onto the home side. This pressure soon paid off as a well worked move saw the ball slid past Richard Harms. Bromley then sensed a comeback pilling the pressure onto Magpies, who then lost David Ling to injury early in the second half following good defensive work. Harleston still under pressure still looked dangerous on the break as they sought a third. It was Bromley though who scored next making it 2 – 2 in this enthralling game. Bromley soon stuck again as Harleston were cut apart to make it 2 -3 to the away side. It would have been easy for magpies to fold at this point but they simply galvanised them self's to go again and started coming back into it as they won a short corner. Gareth Furlong dispatched it making the scores level once again leading into the final 10 minutes. Harleston surged forward once again as Ben Wright one another short corner for the home side. Gareth Furlong clinched his hatrick making it 4 -3 to the home side. Bromley were also not finished as they through everyone forward trying to salvage something. In the final minutes the worked the ball well down their right before clinical finishing saw them score to once again draw themselves level. Final score after this hugely entertaining game was 4 -4.

Magpies Visit Bottom of Table Side

Magpies conceded a goal in the last minute of the final home game of the season to draw against Bromley and Beckenham.A pulsating game ended up 4-4 after Magpies had lead 2-0 at half time, conceded three goals to be losing 3-2, regained the lead, but cruelly conceding a last minute goal to give Bromley a point. With Sevenoaks losing at Old Loughtonians and St Albans also losing Magpies are virtually sure of their place in National league for next season.St Albans would need to win both their remaining games ,Magpies lose theirs and a large goal difference in Magpies favour overturned for St Albans to edge Magpies out.

Magpies visit Sevenoaks for their penultimate league game. The Kent side, although currently at the foot of the table, strengthened their side considerably prior to the Christmas break and are capable of beating any team in the league. Whilst they are unable to avoid one of the two bottom places they are fighting to avoid a direct relegation and a play off place is possible.

Magpies are pleased to select from a strong squad with both Carl Sitch and Pete Bale available.

Team from; Richard Harms; David Ling(Capt);Andy Hipwell;Tristan Baynes;Simon Hipwell;Will Martin;Richard Gill;Gareth Furlong;James Fanger;Ben Wright;Stuart Leate;Andy Bedwell;Mark Wheelhouse;Carl Sitch;Pete Bale.

Magpies 2 vs. Saffron Walden

This week Magpies faced Saffron Walden, and after a 5-4 goal thriller away to them earlier in the season, Magpies knew they were on for a close game. Despite missing a couple of regular players the young Magpies squad went into the match feeling confident. Unfortunately the pace and skill of the Walden forward line saw them take an early lead. The match then settled and the teams were evenly matched, with both sides creating chances. A controversial flick against magpies was narrowly missed by keeper Flora Marfleet to see the team 2-0 within 20 minutes. Magpies followed this with a finely worked short-corner routine, which saw a Lauren Barber deflection hit the post and cross the line. Or so Magpies thought, sadly after some dispute by the other team the goal was disallowed. Shortly after, in the midst of some strong Walden pressure, Magpies were devastated by an injury to Micayla Tootill. A dislocated knee-cap brought the game to a stand-still, and after a half hour delay and a change of pitch Magpies did well to regain focus at the restart. The restart saw Magpies produce some really good hockey, fending off any Walden attacks to keep the score 2-0 going into half time.

Despite battling hard the thought of Micayla still lingered on the Magpies' minds and Walden took advantage of this piling on the pressure, and soon found themselves 3-0 up. The youngsters of Kira Wooltorton and Lottie Nickson fought really well and despite some tired legs Magpies continued to create chances. However Walden continued to have the edge upfront, and with Magpies failing to convert their chances, the score soon reached 5-0. But Magpies showed great spirit and continued to battle and were finally rewarded with a late consolation goal from skipper Melissa Hunter.

In a game that finished over 2 hours after it started Magpies produced some fine hockey but sadly this week come away disappointed. The team hope to get back to winning ways next week as they face Watton away.

Player of the Match was Holly Baker on her return to the seconds.

The whole team wish Micayla a speedy recovery, and hope to see her back making goal-line saves and darting runs up the pitch very soon.

Saturday 12 March
LADIES 1s v Dereham (L) (A) 1.30 4-1 W
LADIES 2s v Saffron Walden (L) (H) 12.30 (W) 1-5 L
LADIES 3 v Broadland (L) (H) 10.45 (S) 1-3 L
LADIES 4s v Pelicans 3s (L) (H) 4.00 (W) 5-2 W
LADIES 5s v Broadland 2s (L) (H) 10.30 (W) 6-0 W
LADIES 6s v Norwich City 4s (L) (A) 11.30 1-6 L
GIRLS Dev. v Norwich City (L) (A) 10.00 1-0 W

MENS 2s v Wisbech Town (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 3-2 W
MENS 3s v Cambridge City 3s (L) (A) 12.30 2-1 W
MENS 4s v Thetford Town (L) (A) 3.00 2-1 W
MENS 5s v Ipswich 4s (L) (A) 1.00 1-1 D
MENS 6s v Sudbury 3s (L) (H) 3.15 (S) 2-0 W
MENS 7s v Felixstowe 3s (L) (A) 12.30 3-0 W
BOYS Dev. v Pelicans (L) (H) 12.15 (S) 2-1 W

Sunday 13 March
MENS 1s v Bromley & Beckenham (L) (H) 2.15 (W) 4-4 D

U10/U12 Boys’ Minis – Norfolk Championship (Gresham’s School) 10.00
- U10 Boys 2nd, U12 Boys 1st

U10/U12 Girls’ Minis – Norfolk Championship (HMHC) 9.30
- U1o Girls 1st, U12 Girls 2nd

U13 Girls (East League at Peterborough)
v City of Peterborough 2-1 W,
v Dereham 1-0 W and league winners

Magpies Girls finally completed their Under 14 East League program with a triangular tournament at Peterborough. After a previous 1-1 draw against Pelicans and an emphatic 10-0 win against Norwich City, Magpies only required one more win to qualify for the East Regional Finals .Both games turned out to be very close and Magpies finally managed to beat Peterborough 2-1 and Dereham 1-0.

Saffron Wilford scored twice with fine strikes from penalty corners.

Magpies will now play in the Regional finals on Sunday April 10th

Team:- Kira Wooltorton capt, Ellie O'Sullivan gk, Saffron Wilford, May Bowden, Imogen Craig, Nicole Eaves, Katie Crawford, Emily McClusky, Sophie Long, Kara Kilbourn, Lily Felton, Beatrice Flatt

Felixstowe 3rds 0 Harleston Magpies 7ths 3

Having done the sums in the week, Magpies knew that they can not be overtaken in their league even if the website of the East Hockey refuses to indicate this on their league table. However pride was at stake as Felixstowe were in second place and it was generally agreed had given us our hardest test when the first game was played at Weybread.

Owing more to the availability of players than an attacking philosophy, Magpies had an overload of forwards necessitating a switch around of positions. Magpies rose to the occasion with the performance of the season. Magic and Joe Walker put pressure on the Felixstowe's backs, Roger Kent was always available, Jon Wells and Martin Reader defended when needed and attacked with purpose, David Blackmore let nothing past him in central midfield, David Fairhead was a revelation at left defender, Chris H would not let anything past him and Pete Finnie well was Pete Finnie. Due to all this Murray had only one save to make all afternoon but it was important one as the score was 0-0 without it the game could have changed.

As it was three goals came in quick succession in the second half with a short corner strike from Jon Wells, a shot from Roger Kent getting hold of a loose ball and a deflection from a short corner by Magic. This last one was the hundredth goal scored by the team in the league this year without having to count the three we were awarded for a conceded game (thank you Magic for pointing this out to me).

An indication of Magpies defensive covering was that they did not concede a single short corner during the game.

With two games left (but no fixture next week) Magpies can now target maintaining their 100% record through to the end of the season.

Harleston Magpies 7th XI SPECIAL OFFER

Expectantly available for next weekend

For short term loan only, these all have high mileage, some going round the clock several. They are good regular starters but are apt to breakdown. No guarantees and not for anyone who expects a high performance model.

The following are available:

J Type Wells but apt to turn back on its self

D type Blackmore (please don't confuse with more recent J type model though performance similar.)

R type Kent – a runner

C type Humphreys – can appear to need a large turning circle

S type Bardwell possibly available

M type Graham- often left at the back due to extras added to outside bodywork.


Two appreciably younger models ie Magic and Joe Walker on offer as well.

Easy terms can be negotiated but all must be returned in perfect running order for the following weekend.

We did test the Denham XR2 but a lack of reliability coupled with a low top speed means that we have withdrawn this model.

Magpies enjoyed a successful day at Greshams with the U10 boys finishing second an the U12 boys retaining the title they won last year.

The U10’s started slowly with a 0-0 draw against Pelicans before losing 3-0 to eventual winners Norwich City. They then beat Dereham 3-0 to finish second on goal-difference. The Norwich City team are a class act and were deserved champions but Magpies have improved massively since the start of the season and this result is reward for all their hard work at training.

Unfortunately, only the top team progresses to the next round of the tournament.

Team – Freddie Dixon (GK), Seth Read, Max Warde-Aldam, Todd Chapman, Josh Mayhew, Morgan Manly, Jude Pottruff, Alex Kilbourn (Captain), Charlie Whyte & Alfie Burton

The U12’s started with a 5-0 win against a much-improved Dereham side. The score-line was a little flattering but Magpies were clinical in the circle. Next up were Norwich City and, in an end-to-end game, Magpies eventually won 7-4. A great game for the spectators but the coach was left with slightly frazzled nerves!


Magpies went into the final game determined to reverse their defeat to Pelicans from a few weeks ago but got of to a bad start conceding a goal from a very-well struck short-corner in the first couple of minutes. However, they dug deep and got a deserved equaliser from a short-corner. The remainder of the half was even but there were no further goals and the sides went in level at half-time. However, the second half was one-way traffic with captain Sol Barker outplaying his opponent to control midfield and Jolyon Summers and William Donsworth putting in commanding defensive performances. The whole team never stopped working for each other, scoring 3 times to run out 4-1 winners. Magpies now go on to play in the East Regional finals on 17th April.

Goal-scorers – Jolyon Summers 6, Sol Barker 4, Archie Winter 2, Will Simpson 2, Jonty Hershel-Shorland 1 & Sam McCluskey 1

Team – Josh Butler (GK), David Cadman, Sam McCluskey, Jolyon Summers, Archie Winter, Sol Barker (Captain), Will Simpson, William Donsworth and Jonty Hershel-Shorland.

Harleston 2 – 1 Pelicans

Having played Pelicans twice in 2011 and losing heavily both times Magpies were determined to get something from this game. However, Pelicans enjoyed plenty of early possession and deservedly took the lead when their player found himself unmarked at the far post for a simple tap in from close range. A quick defensive reshuffle followed, which allowed Magpies to slowly edge the contest. Eventually, from a flowing attack down the right, Matt Bensly swept the ball home for the equaliser and take the teams in level at half-time.

The second half was an even affair with the defensive unit of Bertie Blandy, Harry Murton and Jack Heydon easily dealing with Pelicans attacks and Jordan Wiseman was in fine form when they did manage to break through. The Magpies midfield worked tirelessly creating more and more chances and from one surging run and shot by Jack Frere-Smith the loose ball was picked up by Kieran Peters who smashed home to give Magpies a 2-1 lead. The final few minutes were quite frantic as Pelicans pushed for their second goal but the whole team responded magnificently to hold on for the win.

This was a very good team performance with the all defenders playing extremely well and an excellent debut for Myles King stepping up from the U12s for the first time.

Harleston Magpies Ladies 6th XI match report.

Magpies played against Norwich City 4 on a lovely, sunny morning at Taverham. Unfortunately, a third of our team were missing and the replacement Development Team players had just played a full match. So with a muddled start, Norwich swiftly took advantage and scored within minutes. During the first half, Norwich City kept the ball despite our best efforts and managed to score three more goals through speed and swift passing.

During the second half, rather than feeling glum, we kept the ball at our end of the pitch. Everything was going well and we even cracked their defence with a few shots at goal. It was just into the last quarter of the match that Norwich scored again. However, with some determined playing, Imogen Anderson passed the ball to Katie Webb at the top of the D who smashed the ball past the keeper. Shortly afterwards, Norwich retaliated with a lifted pass, in our D, which hit a Norwich player in the head. Yet play was allowed to continue, despite everyone's concern, and Norwich scored.


Fixture: Magpies vs Norwich City 4

Score: 1 – 6


Joanna Meyer

Magpies Ladies IV 5 - 2 Pelicans III

After suffering only their second loss of the season last weekend against Pelicans 2s, league champions Magpies were looking to bounce back strongly against another Pelicans side, their 3rd team.

Magpies came out with a slighty different formation to recent weeks, employing a diamond in the midfield and playing without a sweeper, hoping that this would give them more attacking options, and the gamble paid off, when centre forward Kay Dennis gave the home side the lead within five minutes; rounding two players in the D to slot cooly past the 'keeper. Pelicans, however, were dangerous on the break and when a loose ball was picked up in the D they equalised with a sharp shot. This seemed to galvanise Magpies, and shortly after, Dennis played a good ball to Laura Schultheiss on the half-way line, who ran the ball all the way into the D and fired home to give Magpies back their lead. Schultheiss then returned the favour for Dennis, when she found space on the right wing to smack a cross into the D for Dennis well-placed in front of the 'keeper to score and extend the home side's advantage. Magpies continue to pepper the Pelicans goal with shots on target but the Pelican's defence and 'keeper stayed strong going into the break.

Magpies came out for the second half knowing they were the better side and were on the hunt for more goals. Schultheiss was again provider when she played a sharp pass through to Kay Dennis, who with the most delicate of touches, slipped the ball past the advancing 'keeper to complete her hattrick. And Dennis got her fourth goal shortly after when a Pelicans 'keeper error left her with an open goal. Pelicans were still not going to give up and they got a scrambled second goal midway through the half. Magpies continued to search for more goals, with some excellent link up play between Dennis and Schultheiss on the forward line, and Schultheiss was unlucky not to extend her goals tally. And with Rosie Blackmore giving yet another brilliant performance in the midfiled, complemented by Lucy Crawford's attacking display at the top of the pyramid, Magpies's victory was never in doubt.

A fantastic performance from Magpies showing that even with the league title already won, their desire to win is second to none, and with only one game left Magpies are hoping to finish on a high!


Kay Dennis, Magpies Ladies 4th's.

Harleston Magpies Ladies 1sts 4-1 Dereham

Magpies picked up their 7th consecutive win with a 4-1 victory away to Dereham. Magpies scored an early goal after just 4 minutes when Bryony Lund was quick to follow in on goal after the initial short corner strike was saved by the Dereham keeper. Magpies were kept at bay for the majority of the first half and Dereham never allowed Magpies much time on the ball. However, Emily Wilford broke through the Dereham defence 3 minutes from half time and put away a clinical shot from the top of the circle to put Magpies 2-0 up.

The second half continued to be scrappy for Magpies and were prevented from ever settling into a rhythm. Whilst Magpies enjoyed the share of possession, Dereham looked dangerous on the counter attack and Magpies were forced to pull off some key tackles to deny opportunities in on goal throughout the half. Magpies most promising attacks came from Artemis Clark down the right with good build up play from Lucy Miller and Lund. Verity Blyth and Sarah Brook also worked well to win Magpies some vital short corners, from which Magpies were looking increasingly like scoring. After 52 minutes, Lund scored her 2nd of the game from a penalty stroke after a short corner strike hit a Dereham foot on the line. Dereham continued to show determination and fight for the remainder of the game and Charlotte Lee-Smith in goal for Magpies made a couple of excellent saves from Dereham breaks. Dereham were rewarded with their goal on 59 minutes after Hannah Palmer scored a superb deflection. However, the game was put beyond Dereham just a few minutes later when Frances Sumner converted a penalty corner to put Magpies 4-1 up and seal the win.

Whilst this may not have been Magpies best performance, they can be pleased with their continued run of wins and go joint on 29 points with 4th place, Ipswich. With only 2 points separating 4 teams in the top 5, there is still much to play for in the final two games of the season. Next Sunday, Magpies entertain league leaders Sevenoaks.

Norwich City again!!! The girls faced their hardest opponents in the league this week. They looked like the same team that beat us 5-1 two weeks ago so we anticipated a tough game.

The first half saw the play fairly evenly matched with a couple of shots on goal from each team, Lucie Gooch making some fab saves for us. Our short corners didn't come to much so the first end of the first half saw a blank score sheet.

Magpies came out stronger at first in the second half although maybe a little shabby, Imogen Craig played a cracking game making lots of running up and down and creating many chances to score. The defence - May Bowden, Katie Crawford and Sandra all played very well, managing to keep Norwich at bay. Norwich had a short corner which Magpies managed to make their's and Kara Kilbourn ran up to the 'D' passing to Sophie Long who crossed to Emily McCluskey, who then tapped the ball past the keeper making it a well deserved 1-0 win to us.

The team all played extremely good hockey against a Norwich City team who fielded many county players. Well done girls!!

For your attention/diary please -


Saturday 12 March - Fun Quiz Evening (to suit all ages), clubhouse, 7.30pm, in teams of up to six people, £2.50 per head payable on the door. PLEASE COME!

NB. During the evening the Spring Prize Raffle draw will be made so unless you have already done so (for which our thanks) you are asked to do all you can please to sell your raffle tickets and kindly return the counterfoils and money to the clubhouse bar by the start of the quiz.

Friday 6 May - End of Season Party* (Apollo Club, Harleston)

Sunday 26 June - Strawberry Luncheon*

Friday 8 July - 50/50 Auction*

* details to follow

Mike Denham
(On behalf of the Social & Fund Raising Committee)

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies make the short journey to play Dereham away on Saturday in their English Hockey League game which starts at 1.30. Magpies recorded their best win of the season last week beating St Albans 6-0 at home with Emily Wilford scoring her first National League hatrick. It was also Magpies sixth successive League win since the League started again in February. In this spell they have beaten Surbiton, Old Loughtonians and Ipswich away whilst recording home wins against Horsham, Cambridge City and St Albans.

Despite this run Magpies have only moved up two League places to 5th place, but they are within six points of the leaders Sevenoaks and three points behind Ipswich in second place. With just three League games to go Magpies will be pushing hard to see how long they can keep this run going. Dereham who have had a difficult season are four points behind Cambridge City who are currently holding the relegation play off position so they have every incentive to beat Magpies.

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

Magpies Expect Bumper Crowd for Final Game

Magpies expect a large crowd for their final league game of the season against Bromley and Beckenham at Weybread on Sunday at 2.15 p.m.

There are only three games left in a season which could see Magpies finish in their best ever position in the league. Whilst Bromley sit just above Magpies in the table the final two games see visits to bottom placed Sevenoaks and top placed Southgate.

Magpies form has been somewhat erratic but they are capable of beating all three sides. Carl Sitch, out for the last few games through injury is progressing well and could be fit to face Bromley. All remaining squad members are fit although Pete Bale misses through work commitments.

The three sides at the bottom of the table, Sevenoaks, St Albans and Wimbledon have tough games against Old Loughtonians, Southgate and Holcombe respectively.

With Magpies keen to avenge their away loss to Bromley there is a real opportunity for Magpies to move well way from the lower places.

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;Ben Wright;Dan Legg;Stuart Leate;Andy Bedwell;Mark Wheelhouse;Calum Callinan;Carl Sitch;Toby Tibbenham.

Harleston Magpies 7ths 5 Norwich Dragons 1

When the crowd is several times as normal, when a debutant player is given a guard of honour onto the pitch, you know you are about to witness something special.

And so it was at Weybread on Saturday. Captain Murray was obviously worried by the goals total in recent weeks and so drafted in Deadly Denham for a long awaited playing performance. There was a degree of underpreparation about Mike as he arrived without stick, shin pads or hamstrings.

(Mike has been instrumental in increasing the numbers of people using Weybread and ensuring that they are made to feel welcome but I do wonder if he is extending this invitation to the super natural with his familiar cry of 'Ghouls welcome')

Despite a bench of four regulars Mike was on from the start as hockey's equiavalent of a pinch hitter. His first touch was confident and precise as he took the push back but alas there wasn't a second one. There was some canny running to evade the opposition defenders but which also evaded the ball but then in the style of Fabregas or van Persie, Mike pulled up lame and had to be replaced. The crowd now melted away in a similar manner to when Tendulker is dismissed when playing in a home test match in India. But the memories will always be there. It remains to be seen as to whether the club will exploit the marketing potential with replica shirts and autographed photographs.

Anything after this was bound to be anti-climatic and so it proved. Devoid of the Denham inspiration Magpies looked a pale shadow of what they had been at the start of the match. The arrival of one of the substitutes guaranteed as it always does that there would be no clean sheet this week and so it was as Dragons took the lead.Jon Wells equalised just before half time.

There was an air of increased effort from Magpies after the break as they were determined that Deadly's earlier efforts in tiring out the opposition would not be in vain. Further goals came from Peter Thornitt, Iain Cumming, Magic and the finally Alistair Wilkinson scored in the final minute to take the goals for column into three figures (though three were awarded for a walk over)


Thanks to Philip C and Graham Ramm for umpiring.

Next week Magpies travel to Flexistowe who lie in second place with the 100% record at stake.

MURRAY'S MARVELS

After their sixth successive win the Ladies' 1sts have a strong claim to top billing again this week but that accolade has to go to 'Murray's Marvels', the Men's 7ths,  after their 5-1 victory on Saturday over Norwich Dragons 3rds. This triumph, in the last game of the day at Weybread, gave them a) their 17^th victory from 17 games, b) the East 6NE league title and the one promotion place with three matches remaining and c) their 100th goal of the season. I can claim no credit for this vital win as my debut for the club after 40 years of retirement ended with a pulled hamstring after five minutes (I cannot recall we had hamstrings all those years ago?!) just before I was due to be substituted but at least I had the pleasure of pushing the ball back to Jon Wells (it's obligatory to give it to Jon if skipper Murray Graham wins the toss) at the start of the game for my only touch of the ball!

But from the bench I was an anxious spectator as the Dragons' keeper made a series of fine saves before his team took the lead and it could have got worse but for a fine goal line save by Keith Alexander. Relief came with Jon converting a penalty corner on the cusp of half time and Martin Reader giving us the lead seconds after the break. Thereafter normal service was resumed with further goals by Tom 'Magic' Miller, David Blackmore and the 100^th goal of the season two minutes from the end by Ali Williamson. We celebrated this outstanding season in the clubhouse by drinking Jon's champagne and eating Ali's sausages. Well done to Murray and his Marvels!

Earlier the Ladies' 6ths had got back to winning ways with goals by Katie Webb and Vanessa Vigrass in their 2-1 win over Hornets before the Ladies' 1sts outplayed St Albans from start to finish in an outstanding display. After two disallowed 'goals' the team was 3-0 up at half time with a brace from the commanding Emma Lee-Smith and a third by Sarah Brook. The feature of the second half was a fine hat-trick by Emily Wilford as the team ran out 6-0 winners making it eighteen points from the last six games with seventeen goals scored and just three against. This Saturday (1.30) the team is away to Dereham who while still on the bottom of the league have been showing improved form of late.

Our next team to show their prowess on the water-based pitch was the Men's 3rds who in an exciting encounter came out on top 4-2 over local rivals Norwich Dragons. Skipper Matt Brand put his side ahead before the Dragons converted a penalty stroke but Magpies were soon back in the lead when a 30-yard pass fired into the circle by Philip Cobbald was spectacularly converted by Toby Hughes for the goal of the day. Two quick goals after the break by the in-form Craig Whipps ensured three vital points for Magpies despite a late second for Dragons.

On the other pitch the Men's 4ths went down 4-2 to Sudbury 2nds to increase their relegation concerns while the Men's 5ths, without for once James and Rob Goodson, were playing out an exciting 2-2 draw (scorers Chris Thornton and Roger Kent) with fellow promotion hopefuls Holt Harlequins leaving them two points behind the North Norfolk team with a game in hand.

After their home defeat by St Albans the Men's 1sts would have been expecting a tough time away to Old Loughtonians on Sunday and so it proved with a 5-0 defeat. With St Albans and Oxted below them winning again the team will be aware that a home win this Sunday (2.15) over Bromley and Beckenham would almost certainly banish lingering relegation or relegation play-off fears although their present tally of 19 points and good goal difference (with three matches to play) might just be enough. But after the recent spate of unexpected results I would not bet on it.

Away from home there were good wins by the Men's 2nds who beat City of Peterborough 2nds 3-1 with goals by Robbie Kinsella, Sam Moore and James Legg, by the Ladies' 3rds who beat Lowestoft Railway 2-1 and the Ladies' 5ths who beat Reepham 7-2 while the Ladies' 2nds were edged out by Norwich Dragons going down 2-1.

Please see the website for the full programme for this weekend which includes on Sunday the U10 and U12 Boys competing in the Norfolk Minis at Gresham's School (10.00) and the U10 and U12 Girls playing in the Norfolk Minis at Weybread (9.30). Good luck to all our teams this weekend.

Mike Denham   01603 506925    MDenham975@aol.com   8/3/11