Magpies 7s v Pelicans 3s

Saturday 24th March

With promotion for a second successive year still on, a win was a must, missing 3 regulars meant the task was slightly daunting, but we gained a hidden gem for the afternoon, someone by the name of Danny who hadn't played for 12 yrs; here's hoping he is a regular fixture next season. The game was rearranged from earlier in the season, when it had been abandoned during the second half with Magpies 2-0 up, due to an every freezing pitch and apparently dangerous playing conditions.

A frozen pitch was not in danger on this day, the hottest match of the year, blue skies and sizzling sun, and for a while at least, sizzling hockey with it. The game ebbed and flowed, Magpies looking extremely comfortable in possession, having the time and confidence to pass the ball back to retain possession. 1st goal came from a good break, which resulted in two initial shots being saved, but with the 3rd being hit well my R.Alcock. Not long after that another break away goal and a good finish by R.Kent, 2-0 at half time.

2nd half started off in the same vein, another break away and another goal, this time a good reverse flick finish by D.Blackmore. 3-0 and Magpies appeared to be in complete control. At this point, the two substitutes were standing on the side line saying, "3 goals should be enough…", the other replying, "4 would be better", his comment turned out to be very accurate.

Pelicans shortly scored there 1st to make it 3-1. Then 3-2…and with Magpies doing their best to defend, they created another break away moment, the ball coming to Blackmore in the middle who drove and once at the top of the D, passed a perfect pass for one of the strikers, easier to score than miss, unfortunately we missed. But for a player who is only in his 3rd game back after playing Rugby for the last 18yrs, marked improvement is being shown. With minutes ticking away a short corner was controvertially awarded with 2 minutes left on the clock. This was dispatched by Pelicans to make it 3-3. A very disappointing collapse, and I can't put my finger on why. Maybe the sun was taking its toll. Either way, we must all remember, Harleston Magpies Hockey Club is an inclusive club for all abilities.

MOTM; D.Blackmore

DOTD; 7th team 2nd half collapse

Next match was Felixstowe at home, 31st March. This has just been conceded, giving Magpies a 3-0 win. This strangely keeps us still with a mathematical chance of gaining promotion. Now level on points with Dereham in 2nd, who have two games to play to our one. Last game of the season, away to BSE 3s, 14th April.

UNDER 12 GIRLS AT DEREHAM TOURNAMENT

Magpies entered two teams in the Dereham Tournament with the A team finishing joint 3rd and the B team coming 7th.

Both teams were in different sections The A team started with a 3-0 win over Dereham B with goals from Mia King, Alice Woollatt and Matilda Warde-Adlam. Next up were the favourites Norwich City.

Unfortunately Magpies marking in defence was very poor and they lost 5-0. Despite this result Magpies bounced back to beat Norwich Dragons 1-0 with a goal from Alice Woollatt. In the final game in the section Magpies beat Pelicans B team 3-0 (Ismay Whittaker, Mia King and Matilda – Warde-Adlam).

As Magpies finished second in the section they met Pelicans A from the other group in a match to decide 3rd and 4th position. The result was a 0-0 draw but Magpies had plenty of chances to win the match.

Team: Ismay Whittaker (Capt), Shannon Hedge, Amelia Preece, Sophie Child, Evie Hall, Mia King, Alice Woollatt and Matilda Warde-Adlam

The B team had some tough matches but started with a 0-0 draw against Norwich City B. They then lost 4-0 and 5-0 to Dereham A and Pelicans A respectively. An excellent 2-0 win against Watton saw Anna Kilbourn and Libby Chatten score the goals.

In their play off match they drew 0-0 against Dereham B.
Team: Abigail Bourne, Liberty Chatten, Ellen Harness, Anna Kilbourn, Hollie Sewell, Lucy Westmacott, Mia Gower and Amy Hill

Harleston Magpies Men's 1st XI vs Holcombe (Away) 2.00pm 25th March 2012

"The end of a tough season"


Harleston Magpies men's 1st XI went in to their final game knowing that they were already relegation from National League hockey. They went into the game missing several players due to work commitments but still with a team that could compete if they all played well. Holcombe had a full strength team out to exact revenge for the first game of the season where Harleston beat the big spending team 3-2

The game started in brilliant sunshine and at a furious pace with both teams playing free flowing attacking hockey. After an attack by Harleston was stopped Holcombe broke down the left committing numbers to the attack, with a attack being seemingly being dealt with the ball was crossed into the 'D' somehow avoiding all of the Harleston defenders who were marking players and arrived on an unmarked Vehrle-Smith at the back post to tap the ball home.

Magpies did not drop there heads at all and continued to good hockey for the rest of the half matching Holcombe for speed and skill. Harleston won a couple of penalty corners thanks to good work by Will Blythe and Mark Wheelhouse, Baynes worked the keeper with a drag flick only for it to be scrambled away by the Holcombe defenders with the first one and a miss trap by Wheelhouse on the second sore the end of the second.

Harleston went into half time with belief that they could still get something out of the game if they continued to play as they had done in the first half.

Unfortunately like with the start of too many second halves Harleston did not start as they finished the first half. A goal came after 2 minutes via James Stedman after a cheap turnover in the middle of the park by Harleston.

Miss communication between the defence lead to the 2nd goal for Stedman 5 minutes later after Harleston had played some very nice attacking hockey since conceding the 2nd goal. Harleston conceded a penalty corner soon afterward with Gill being green carded but some good fortune of the ball striking the cross bar and the next corner being saved by Leonard kept the score down.

With Harleston returning to 11 players the went on the attack and secured a penalty corner which Baynes flicked low for a deflection which forced a fine save the keeper to deny Fanger a goal. Good play by Hipwell and Furlong secured Harleston another corner with Baynes having his drag flick saved off the line with the keeper beaten.

Holcombe continued to look dangerous whilst attacking and some fantastic skill by Jawanda beating 3 players and calmly slotting past Leonard despite the hassling from Ling who was lucky Holcombe scored otherwise he might have been sent to the sin bin.

The score line does not reflect favourable on the performance put in by the Harleston players but they completed all game long and scared the host on occasions.

The team would like to thank all of the people who have come to support throughout the year and for all of those people who have done some much work to help in the background. Be assured that the team have already started master planning their rise back into National League for the 2013-14 season.

MOM Furlong

GUESS THE MAGPIE.
WELL, WHERE DO I START…


Howland's work of art?



Well, first we have a girl, constantly on the ground,

Through all her diving around..

She's gone in a blink-

Dedication I think.




WOW. 100 national league goals?

Brings the biscuits, and puts them in the bowls?

At training she snapped her stick-

Now who's the dick




ATTENTION. Yes captains next.

1 bruises with just a small touch to the skin,

But that doesn't matter, as long as we win!

But please don't get sent to the sin bin!




Capt no 2. Has a reach better than I don't know who.

And can track back faster than I can say BOO!




1 word for this person- ' there'

Training – there.

Matches- there.

Socials- there.

Had a baby- guesss what- SHES NOT THERE. shes here.

She's like a musketeer!

She's also our voice on the pitch,

Just like on the side line, yes Mr Sitch.




This girl ALWAYS (and I repeat ALWAYS) has to have a piddle,

And plays on the right in the middle,

But I'm so disappointed she doesn't play the fiddle.




This next person can run, and run and run.

And wouldn't surprise me if she could run to the sun.

Yes, she does like her sport,

But also can write a damn good match report.




You do love a good ol snack a jack,

But if I don't give you one- don't give me a whack.

Also shes Always ahead, this gal.

Yes, it's she dreaded fitness pal.

Naughty naughty, this girl sometimes can be,

Don't worry; my knowledge is under lock and key.




FOOD O'CLOCK NEXT.

Chocolate, sweets, crisps, every little bit.

You name it, she's got it.

WIMP SHIRT GIRL SHE IS TOO- always chilly,

Yes that's you Willie.




This persons just had a baby,

Is she cuter than her mummy? Maybe…




BACKBOARDS, POST UP, PIN THEM IN, LEFT FOOT, GET AHEAD, CHANNEL, GET SOMETHING- GET SOMETHING, TRACK BACK, I SAID BACKBOARDS. PRESS PRESS PRESS.

Yes… I think you can guess….




Shirt number 1 you may be.

Yes our golie..

But I mean driving strait past the turning of your own hockey ground?

defiantly a fine, of 1 pound.




This teacher can certainly smack a ball.

Probably hard enough, to go through a brick wall.

But I think you need a new car,

Then you can drive to Surbiton- you star.




You were the driver when I forgot all my kit.

Lucky we didn't get further, you have to admit.




This person had the pleasure of traveling to Bristol with me.

B- HAM? How Many Miles per hour? Debris on the road? WHAT?

Okay, YOU PUT UP WITH ME A LOT.

Any way this person likes to run out 1 at a short corner too..

I mean, I'd rather eat my shoe.




Another car buddy to Bristol you were….

MARSHMELLOWS,

I DON'T LIKE TO BELLOW.

This person never fails to bring them,

You gem.




DON'T WORRY I HAVNT FORGOTTEN YOU… Mrs charming,

You're the one that loves Agricultural farming..

What's that miller…? Yes, that's crops….

I think I'd better stop.




Written by Jess Howland.

Christchurch 2 Harleston Magpies 1

Magpies travelled to Ipswich for the 2nd week in a row to face Christchurch on a hot and sunny morning. The whole team started strongly, moving the ball around well with the forwards creating many goal scoring opportunities. Magpies were frustrated not to convert any of these in opening 20 minutes with the Christchurch 'keeper having a great game. Krystal Bishop soon broke the deadlock getting on the end of an excellent cross from the right leaving the score 0-1 at half time.


Magpies came out in the second half with the intention of finishing off their goal scoring opportunities, however with numbers high up the pitch Christchurch made a quick break at the Magpies defence to level the score at 1-1. Magpies continued to battle hard and for the rest of the match had plenty of opportunities to take the lead again but unfortunately were not able to convert any of their number of attacking short corners. In the last 10 minutes Christchurch made another break and scored the winning goal to leave the final score at 2-1.


Magpies were obviously disappointed with today's score but should not let it bring down what has been a fabulous season seeing the whole team progress together and dominate the league. Special thanks must go to the supporters who have been there at every game to support the girls, it has been much appreciated.


MOTM: Holly Baker

Harleston Magpies 1 – Chelmsford 1

Magpies sponsored by Kilbourns.co.uk completed their National League East Conference season with another strong performance in front of a home crowd.

Chelmsford set an aggressive press early in the game which made it difficult for Magpies to find their confidence and retain possession of the ball. Magpies remained focussed and where soon moving the ball with increased accuracy and purpose.

The Magpies defence was well organised and worked together to frustrate the skilful Chelmsford forward line The first half finished goalless with neither team being able to convert the goal scoring opportunities they created.

Magpies tried to raise the intensity at the start of the second half but were quickly caught out by Chelmsford forward Judith Duffin who found space at the back post to convert a cross from the right in the 41st minute. Magpies quickly regrouped and pressed forward to get back on level terms.

Chelmsfords defence found it difficult to cope with the speed and stick skills of Emily Wilford as she combined with Brooks, Palmer, Howland and Wheelhouse to create a number of chances to score. Magpies could not take advantage of these opportunities and remained one goal behind.

With time running out Magpies where awarded another penalty corner after skilful play on the right from Lucy Miller and Frances Burrell. The corner was converted by Louisa Greenacre in the 69th minute to bring Magpies level. There was still time for Chelmsford to try and find the winner, but a diving save from Lisa Griffin seconds before the final whistle insured the game finished all square and Magpies earned a point which their committed performance had deserved.

Thanks go to Manager Nick McAllen, Coach Leigh Sitch and Captain's Charlotte Harrison and Frances Burrell for leading the team in another successful season in the National League.

Magpies Ladies IV 4 - 0 Dereham III

Dereham were the visitors to Weybread this saturday for an early evening push-back, with Magpies fighting for another three points following their deserved victory last weekend against Lowestoft. And although Magpies survival in the Premier Laegue would depend on other teams' results, they were determined to do their part.
To this end, Magpies started well, taking the game to Dereham, with the home side enjoying the majority of possession throughout the first half; their play was attacking, passing the ball sharply through the midfield to the forward line, and pressuring the Dereham back line. When the home side won a short corner, they caught Dereham on the back foot after it had to be re-taken, and the ball fell to midfielder Hannah Booty at the top of the D to shoot past the 'keeper to give Magpies the lead. Dereham were quick on the break, but it was nothing the strong Magpies defence couldn't cope with and they kept their lead going into half time.
Magpies came out for the second half as though it was still nil nil, and couldn't have wished for more when straight from the whistle they got the ball into the D with Sarah Legg doubling the home side's advantage, competently beating the 'keeper from a tight angle. With confidence high Magpies pushed on, and after winning another short corner, Legg doubled her personal tally with an awesome strike from the top of the D. Still Magpies wanted more, Gina Scott and Katherine Ridley at right and left back respectively, both giving tremendous performances with their quality attacking play combined with their strong defensive tackles, and Bella Hall in the middle switching the ball swiftly. Forward Laura Schultheiss added a fourth for the home side near the end to cap a brilliant performance.
Well done to all 14 players today, an impressive display which must be taken into their final match of the season next week against Watton, with their hopes of survival well and truly still alive!



Kay Dennis, Magpies Ladies 4th's.

Magpies determined to bounce straight back


Magpies drew their penultimate game of the season in a fine game of hockey against Indian Gymkhana. With Bromley and Beckenham unexpectedly beating Old Loughtonians Magpies slipped to the foot of the table and consequential relegation. Magpies results since the Christmas break have been encouraging,however it was the results earlier in the season when hit by injuries to established players Mark Wheelhouse, Pete Bale and Tristan Baynes that determined the season. With the younger players gaining experience this season and the core of the squad staying Magpies are determined to bounce straight back to national league by winning the east league next season.

Squad from; Richard Gill;Andy Bedwell;Sebastian Knights;Tristan Baynes;David Ling;Rees Leonard;Mark Wheelhouse(Capt);James Fanger;Rhodri Furlong;Tom Graham; Will Blyth;Elliot Smith;Leigh Sitch.

Level 1 and Level 2 coaching courses at Harleston Magpies - Book Now!

Hi All

Please see the email below from Ian Grange from Active Norfolk regarding funding for Level 1 and Level 2 courses at Harleston Magpies. Please contact Ian direct for further information. There are spaces on both courses at the moment and I attach the application forms.



Kind Regards

Jo

Jo Beresford
Regional Administrator
England Hockey Board (EHB)



Dear Coach


I would like to invite you to attend a sign up evening at the Sportspark

Norwich on 27th March from 6.30pm - 7.30pm in the Bowthorpe Room.


It will take around 15 minutes to complete the forms that are required

to draw down the part or full funding we have recently obtained to

support any of the below coaching qualifications:


Hockey Level 2 - 12th, 13th, 19th and 20th May 2012 @ Harleston Magpies

Hockey Club


Hockey Level 1 - 3rd, 10th and 17th June 2012 @ Harleston Magpies Hockey

Club


As a reminder to be eligible for the funding you must be aged 16+,

resident in Norfolk and not in full time education.


To reserve your place simply click on the below link:


http://www.activenorfolk.org/courses.asp?itemid=1770


Regards


Ian Grange

Coaching Development Manager

Active Norfolk

Easton College Tennis Centre, Easton, Norwich, NR9 5DX

Office 01603 731568, Mobile 07785724967

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES 1ST TEAM WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies sponsored by Kilbourns.co.uk are at home this Saturday in their final League game of the season against Chelmsford. The match starts at 2.00pm. This is a change from the normal start time, as England Hockey requires all matches to start at the same time on the final day, so that teams involved in promotion or relegation issues do not have an advantage by playing later.

After two successive defeats against the League winners Surbiton last week (2-0) and the previous week against second placed Sevenoaks (2-1) Magpies would like to finish the season with a win. They have every incentive as Chelmsford are in 6th place one place and one point ahead of Magpies.

Both these teams met on the very opening game of the season, when Magpies came from a goal down to equalise and then snatched the winner late in the game.

Chelmsford had a sticky start to the season, but have improved throughout the season and have scored nearly twice as many goals as Magpies, but they have also conceded quite a few goals. It promises to be an exciting match.

Magpies have the same squad as last week, but are hoping that joint captain Charlotte Harrison will be available to join the squad.

SQUAD : Frances Burrell and Charlotte Harrison (Joint Capts), Lisa Griffin, Katrina Warnes, Louisa Greenacre, Lauren Barber, Lizzie Jones, Sarah Brook, Lucy Miller, Jess Howland, Hannah Palmer, Angie Wheelhouse, Emily Wilford, Catherine Cranmer and Debbie Francis.

WET, WET, COMPLETELY SOAKED TO THE SKIN!

Dereham 5ths v Magpies 7ths

17th March 2012

It used to be said that Murray's team never get rained on...well that all changed on Saturday! It had been raining steadily all day, but as we started our match at the centre of Norfolk, it just got harder. This was probably a blessing in disguise though as it made what would have been an incredibly slow pitch, not quite as slow. It did however seem to have an effect on the team's usual reliable playing style.

Everyone was finding it extremely hard to pass to someone in a white shirt, and if they did, it was with a poorly paced passed which put their team mate in trouble. Dereham, who were playing much better than their league position suggested, scored first. From what I can remember it was from a short corner, but either way, it resulted from a good save from murrays stick, low to his right, and a failure to clear the ball, resulting in an easy rebound goal. Magpies patched up defence suffering badly from the absence of the sweeping Finney.

Magpies defence was then further depleted with the injury to D.Fairhead, "i heard something pop", apparently it was his groin, so our only substitute Charlie Graham came on at left back, providing a another attacking option, which we badly required. Magpies gained a bit of momentum after this, eventually getting into the D, the ball arriving at the stick of Eric, who quite calmly dispatched an unstoppable shot into the top left hand corner of the goal. 1-1....but not for long. 2-1 to Dereham soon after, another mix up in defence, left a Dereham player at the top of the D who lobbed the on running keeper to score. Before half time and with Magpies bickering amongst one another, we worked the ball forwards once more, wide on the right it arrived with Eric again, he got to 1 metre from the dead ball line, and 4 metres from the right of the goal, with everyone expecting a cut back to the P spot, Eric some how managed to squeeze a shot in at the near post, 2-2, half time.

With the Dereham team strangely deciding to sit in a goal, getting rained on for their team talk, Magpies made use of the shelter on offer, which surely used to be an old ship container. Words were exchanged, advice given and we all trooped back onto the pitch. Magpies started better and eventually worked a chance which was stopped illegally on the line by a defenders feet. D.Blackmore dispatched the resulting Flick, low into the bottom left hand corner, 3-2. The game then ebbed and flowed, with mis opportunities at the both ends, Joe Walker, 'took one for the team', and received a harsh yellow card for questioning the umpire, which apparently the umpire was sick of from other Magpie players. Now I am no umpire, but I thought a green card came first...

With the remaining minutes ebbing away, one last attack was formed with the 10 men on the pitch, a ball cleared from defence to Eric, who ran towards goal, a strangely energetic Magic tried to over take him on his left and called for a through ball, which he got and eventually won a short corner. From the resulting push out to J. Wells, a good pass back to the near post to R. Kent who skilfully half volleyed the ball into the net. 4-2 and final score.

MOTM; Eric Davey

DOTD; It has to be the weather.

Dep Reporter; T.MILLER

City of Peterborough Mens 2nd XI 3 - Magpies Mens 2nd XI 1


Safety not assured yet for Mens 2nd XI despite good effort

Magpies travelled to Peterborough for a tricky encounter with a side battling to claim the East Prem B title and promotion, and a late pm start did not help matters for the visitors.

With twelve in the squad including the returning Quentin Baynes from suspension, Pies also gave a 2nd XI début to Rob Turnbull with a welcome return of Hamish Barton at right back.

Pies started well and dominated aspects of initial play, soaking up continual pressure from the strong home side. The visitors took the lead, much to everyone's surprise, with a fumbled effort at the back post from forward James Baker who almost managed not to score his 7th of the season. This did not amuse a well-drilled Peterborough side, who fielded several of their 1st team bench players in a strong squad. They pushed to win numerous corners throughout the encounter, and one straight strike ricocheted up over keeper Lane to hit the cross bar and the young Peterborough forward dispatched an easy tap in for 1-1. Pies continued to push in the first half and had a few attempts from Tompkins, Fields and Kinsella, all just narrowly wide.

Half time brought a welcome rest as Pies pressed hard to keep the home side out as they went close with two great opportunities. On a warm day, water was a definite requirement and Pies skipper Martin Fields urged his side to keep up the pressing and hard work. However, despite some good work in defence another penalty corner resulted in a sweet reverse stick strike low past Lane and the postmen to make it 2-1 to the home side. Pies' cause was further hardened by Barton receiving a yellow card for what seemed like a decent below shoulder height take down, but the umpires did not agree. Ten men Pies fought hard to retain possession, with the defence of Baynes, Dyson, Taylor and Francis helping to keep it respectable while down. Barton soon returned but Pies let in a soft third to make it 3-1.

A great effort on a warm day, and with results around them not exactly going to plan, a must win game against Letchworth next weekend is on the cards for the 2nd XI.

Squad: Lane (GK), Barton, Dyson, Taylor, Baynes L, Baynes Q, Turnbull, Francis, Kinsella, Fields, Baker, Tompkins

MOTM: Hamish Barton

DOTD: James Baker

Surbiton 2 – Harleston Magpies 0

Magpies sponsored by Kilbourns.co.uk travelled to top of the table Surbiton knowing they would have to perform at the top of their game to compete with Surbiton's high tempo.

Surbiton dominated the early stages of the match, attacking the Magpies defence at pace looking to secure an early goal. Magpies defence had to be organised and alert as the Surbiton forwards electric pace and sharp stick skills continued to create problems for Magpies. Strong tackles and interceptions from Catherine Cranmer and some crucial saves from goal keeper Lisa Griffin kept Magpies in the game.

In the 28th minute Surbiton where awarded a penalty stroke because the ball struck a Magpies body on the way to goal. The stroke was converted by Becky Merchant.

Magpies started the second half at a higher intensity and secured greater possession of the ball. The forward line of Brook, Wheelhouse and Howland pressed the ball high up the pitch and forced errors from the Surbiton defence. A penalty corner strike from Frances Burrell produced a good save from the Surbiton keeper who had to react quickly to keep the rebound out.

Surbiton tried to extend their lead but where frustrated by the Magpies midfield of Jones, Burrell, Barber and player of the match Debbie Francis worked tirelessly to retain possession and find the forwards in space.

Magpies had three opportunities to get back on equal terms but were unable to convert these penalty corner opportunities. In the 68th minute Surbiton finally put the game out of Magpies reach when they scored their second goal of the game with a well worked penalty corner routine which was finished by Vicky Bryant.

This result means that Surbiton secure the East Conference title in only their second year in the league. Magpies will now look to finish the season strongly when they play Chelmsford at home on Saturday in their final league fixture.

"Relegation for battling Magpies"

Harleston Magpies men's 1st XI went in to their penultimate game knowing only victory would realistically give them any chance of avoiding automatic relegation from National League hockey. They welcomed Indian Gymkhana to Weybread, the team they had beaten in their only away win of this season so far. Gymkhana were themselves in need of one point to avoid any chance of being dragged into the play-offs for relegation.

The game started in wet conditions but with a very respectable crowd in attendance to cheer on the home side. Magpies started at full throttle and pressed the away side in hope of an early breakthrough. Unfortunately a huge aerial almost the whole length of the pitch resulted in an early penalty corner for Indian Gym. Jagdeep Gill stepped up and drag flicked a stunner into the roof to give Magpies an uphill struggle with only four minutes gone. Despite their position and some results, Magpies can never be criticised for their effort and immediately threw everything into attack. Great pressure and build-up play resulted in a number of penalty corners and after a couple of failed attempts, Ben Wright drilled one underneath the goalie to level the scores on 10 minutes. Magpies maintained their efforts and commanded much of the first half with only break-aways and long aerials on offer from the visitors. More pressure from Magpies and a great through ball by Richard Gill resulted in Tommy Graham finding Wright who causally bobbled a reverse stick shot over the advancing goalie. Advantage Magpies at half time with a 2-1 lead.

The second half started off with both teams having a fair share of the ball and, having dried themselves off, the crowd returned to witness what was building up to be a very tight game. Unfortunately for Magpies, another short corner was won by Gym and despite line man Mark Wheelhouse's best effort, his foot/body on the line resulted in a penalty stroke. Jagdeep Gill sent Reece Leonard the wrong way and the scores were level again. Only 3 minutes later the away side won another corner following some great stick skills from some of the Indian players and Jagdeep Gill again produced another perfect flick to put Magpies behind and further from their vital 3 points. The game however was nowhere close to over and Magpies gave their all to get the goals they needed. A messed up aerial from the back led to Peter Bale stealing into the circle and crossing for recalled Simon Hipwell to finish for the equaliser; he always saves his best games for Indian Gymkhana.

Magpies still needed more and they gave the away side no respite. With high pressing and excellent teamwork they managed to force a Gym player to knock the ball away after the whistle and the umpire duly gave a penalty corner. Top scorer Ben Wright produced another good flick from the top and Magpies were back in the lead with only 9 minutes left. The away side came back to life and responded themselves using excellent skills to advance on the home goal. Reece Leonard managed to save 2 short corners before a third resulted in a rebound landing to Pravinder Hanspal. He delivered a belter of an undercut into the roof of the Magpies net and again it was all square with 5 to play.

Unfortunately, despite all their best efforts, Magpies couldn't carve open a final chance and when the whistle blew the away side's joy was mirrored by heartache for Magpies. With Bromley managing a shock win to second-place Old Loughtonians, Magpies fate was sealed and a return to regional hockey became a reality.

Magpies have played 3 hard seasons in what is clearly not only the toughest but also the richest division of the National League conferences and, despite this always looking like a difficult season, the management team and the players should take credit for what this traditional club has achieved. The players have vowed to stick together and plot their return to this level next year. They complete the seasons fixtures away to big spending Holcombe next week.

Man of the match - Ben Wright

Magpies Ladies IV 1 - 0 Lowestoft Railway

After a closely contested match at Lowestoft back in November, Magpies were desperate to avenge their unfortunate one nil loss with the return fixture at Weybread at 12.15.

With the rain falling steadily, Magpies made a good start, determined to press on with their improved formation, and they made ground into Lowestoft's defensive D. After the opening exchanges the play settled down into an evenly contested first 25 minutes. Magpies passed the ball competently, communication within the team working well, and enjoyed some positive play, with Emily Parsons finding acres of space on the left wing. Bella Hall made an impression when she came on midway through the half on the right wing, and this seemed to galvanise the home side, and when frustration in the Lowestoft defence gained their left back a green card, Magpies won a short corner. Unfortunately Sarah Legg's strong strike was saved well by the Lowestoft 'keeper. As the half drew to a close the Magpies forwards pressed the away side back into the D blocking the 16 yard hits, but couldn't find the final ball.

As the rain fell heavier the second half started with a quickened pace, Magpies confident they could get the win they so desperately craved, and the home side certainly had the initiative on their side. The defence of Gina Scott, Treacle Griffin, Emma Tolhurst and an impressive Katherine Ridley held strong, and the midfield passed and linked up well with the forward line; Tina Neill playing the ball around in her pivoting central role. Forwards Kay Dennis, Jose Tibbenham and Rosie Blackmore pressured the Lowestoft 'keeper with shots, and Emily Parsons was just a fraction too late at the far post to give Magpies the lead. Some quality stick work from Bella Hall earned Magpies a short corner, and as she has done on numerous occasions Sarah Legg stepped up and fired the ball past the 'keeper, giving Magpies a deserved lead. And the home side continued to push forward, Kay Dennis going close twice, before a lovely cross from Legg saw Dennis brilliantly saved with the Lowestoft 'keeper diving low to her left. Magpies held strong, and with the final whistle came an excellent victory.

A fantastic, hard fought performance from all 14 players involved today, and hopefully this will give the squad a much needed boost going into their final two games.

Lets finish the season on a high ladies!



Kay Dennis, Magpies Ladies 4th's.

HARLESTON MAGPIES LADIES 1ST TEAM WEEKEND PREVIEW

Harleston Magpies Ladies sponsored by Kilbourns.co.uk are away this Sunday in their penultimate League game of the season against the League leaders Surbiton with the match starting at 2.00pm.

After four successive wins and a draw Magpies good run came to an end last Saturday, when they lost 2-1 at home to second placed Sevenoaks. Magpies came so close to pulling off a great result last week and if they had taken their chance early in the second half to go 2-0 up they might even have come away with three points. In the end Sevenoaks came back very strongly and two late goals left Magpies with nothing.

This Sunday Surbiton away presents Magpies with their toughest match of the season. If Surbiton win they will clinch the League title, as Sevenoaks will not be able to catch them. Surbiton have won 13 drawn 2 and lost 1 in what could turn out to be a great season for them. Magpies lost 4-0 at home to Surbiton earlier in the season so Magpies will need to apply themselves with the same attitude they showed against Sevenoaks to show how much they have improved in the second half of the season.

SQUAD : Frances Burrell (capt), Lisa Griffin, Katrina Warnes, Louisa Greenacre, Lauren Barber, Lizzie Jones, Sarah Brook, Lucy Miller, Jess Howland, Hannah Palmer, Angie Wheelhouse, Emily Wilford, Catherine Cranmer and Debbie Francis.

Magpies fight for National League survival

Magpies picked up a vital point in London last weekend when they secured a draw against Teddington. With Bromley and Beckenham winning, Magpies slipped to the foot of the table some two points below Bromley with two games to play. Bromley’s outstanding games are against two sides sitting in the top four of the table and it leaves Magpies needing to win their game against Indian Gymkhana on Saturday and Bromley to lose both their games to put Magpies in the play off position .A draw by Bromley would put both sides on the same points with Magpies having an inferior goal difference.

There are remaining injury doubts over Stuart Leate ,Mark Stacpoole and Elliot Smith are not available, but Will Blyth joins the squad.

Whilst Magpies put in some disappointing performances prior to the league break their recent form has been good and with Gymkhana’s results being extremely mixed one can only hope for a result on the day. With the visitors making a long trip and Magpies urged on by their crowd a convincing home win is more than possible.

Squad from; Richard Gill;;Andy Bedwell; Pete Bale; Richard Ling; Sebastian Knights; Tristan Baynes; David Ling; Rees Leonard; Ben Wright; Leigh Sitch; Mark Wheelhouse(Capt); James Fanger; Rhodri Furlong; Tom Graham; Stuart Leate; Will Blyth.