Results

LADIES 2ND XI - 25/03/2017 VS NORWICH DRAGONS 4 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 25/03/2017 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 25/03/2017 
HEADLINE: League Champions! 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: Dragon's Den 
RESULT: Won 2-0 
 
REPORT: Norwich City womens 2’s secured championship glory with a polished performance away at Norwich Dragons 4s, winning 2 – 0. Two first half goals came from player of the match Hannah Jarvis which were enough to win the match ultimately, securing promotion. Norwich knew that to complete the season at the top they had to do better than second place rivals Broadland who away at Loddon. Both teams were equal on points with only three goals separating them. Broadland’s game started slightly before City’s which could have easily distracted them however, the team ensured they were focused on their own task ahead. 
 
City started the match exactly as they intended to, taking control of the ball and applying lots of pressure in and around Dragon’s ‘D’. City struck with their first meaningful attack. Captain Rosie Humphrey lead from the front and despite taking one to the knee, drove into the left side of the ‘D’ and on her reverse stick won a short corner. Rosie dragged the ball to Ange Hindle at the top who stopped it for Ellie Brine who struck it with confidence and power. It was saved well by the keeper although, Hannah Jarvis was waiting patiently for the rebound who calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net. 1 – 0 to City. 
 
Soon after, the scoreline increased to 2 – 0 with almost a carbon copy of the first goal. Except this time, it was excellent work down the right flank from link up play between Becky Gaffney and Milly Brown who managed to win another short corner. Same routine as before, however there were a few more deflections before the ball found its way to Hannah and finally into the goal. Up to this point City were in complete control. 
 
The umpire threw a metaphorical spanner in city’s plans of league domination by showing Danni Garwood a green card. Danni, who had made some vital blocks and tackles up to this point, entered full on beast mode and was deemed to have deliberately pushed a Dragons player off the ball and was sent to the stands for 2 mins of self reflection. This allowed Dragons a little window back into the game. City reshuffled the pack and went about soaking up some serious Dragon’s pressure. During this period Serena Scott, City’s goalie, made her only save of the game, but an important save it was given the circumstances. The half ended 2 – 0 to City, who could be pleased with the job they had done so far. 
 
Second half began, City continued to dominate the game and by keeping all their players on the pitch never let Dragons have a chance to ruin the party. City began to turn the screw and with great link up play; working in triangles between the midfield and second top goal scorer Emily Francis meant that Dragons couldn’t get close. Ellie Brine made her usual effective leading runs opening up space for Kate Hartland to pounce on goal but couldn’t quite convert. Some credit has to go to the Dragon’s defence as some last-ditch tackles and blocks prevented city from scoring, particularly from the Dragon’s keeper who was voted their player of the match. 
 
The same can also be said for City’s defence. Every time a City attack broke down Dragons looked to break on the counter-attack. But thanks largely to Megan Conway, Becky Gaffney, Ellie Pitcher, Danni Garwood, Karren Dagless and of course keeper Serena Scott, City won the ball back straight away and kept it inside Dragon’s half for almost the entire second period. As City’s hunt for more goals intensified, they began to throw everything forward, including Leigh-Ann Worrall who has played all season in defence but is one of the most clinical players under pressure. Unfortunately, there were no more goals for the rest of the game. City had won many short corners in the second half but the closest they came to converting was when Leigh-Ann Worrall fired the ball in from the left towards the right-hand post where Rosie and Milly sprinted to divert the ball home but they only managed to throw themselves both into the goal without taking the ball with them. 
 
The final whistle went and Norwich had secured the 3 points but the question on everyone’s mind, had they done enough? Nervously they huddle together until the news filters through… Broadland had lost, City are champions! Out comes the champagne with celebratory screams and tears of joy. It is the end of an era as ‘Captain fantastic’ Rosie Humphrey is stepping down next year and she could not have finished on a higher note. Well done to the entire squad and everyone who took part of this championship winning season! 
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 18/03/2017 VS CARROW 1 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 18/03/2017 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 18/03/2017 
HEADLINE: City Still on Top!! 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: TRF 
RESULT: 5-0 
 
REPORT: 
City turned up this week to face bottom of the league, Carrow. With it being tight at the top of the table, city knew scoring lots of goals was going to be essential. Norwich were straight out of the blocks and with great advantage from the umpire they were able to score within the first 5 minutes - a smooth ball sent across the D by Emily Francis for Ellie Brine to sweep in. Norwich were spurred on by the early goal and with great work rate from Rosie Humphrey in midfield, she was able to find Ange Hindle at the top of the D, who gave a lovely ball into Kate Hartland, where she found the back of the net, 2-0. Milly Brown worked superbly upfront and in midfield, driving the right hand channel to create numerous chances for city and soon came Kate's second goal. A clean shot in from Hannah Jarvis was neatly deflected in by Kate on the left post. Half time came and city new they were going to need more goals to keep fighting for promotion, so went out with determination. Great work from Becky Gaffney and Ellie Pitcher down the channels created more opportunities for Norwich, eventually their 4th goal came when Ange sent another fast ball into the circle, for Hannah Jarvis to cleanly sweep into the right hand corner. Serena Scott was giving her usual chat from the back and with solid defending, as always, from Karen Dagless, Leigh-Ann Worrall and Danni Garwood city were ensured a clean sheet. Finally with a great ball across the D from Kate, Ellie was ready on the back post to slot away city's final goal of the day, securing a convincing 5-0 win. Special shout out to Norwich City Womens 4s for their amazing performance against Broadland 1s, securing City 2s place again at top of the table on goal difference. 

LADIES 2ND XI - 11/03/2017 VS LODDON 1 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 11/03/2017 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 11/03/2017 
HEADLINE: The battle is still on! 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: Taverham 
RESULT: Won 5-0 
 
REPORT: After the team talk with coach Ali Wardale, Norwich City 2’s knew exactly what they had to do today to keep their battle for promotion alive.  
City faced Loddon 1’s - the only team to defeat the strong City 2’s side earlier this season. On their home turf, City were determined to add another 3 points to their tally.  
 
In the first half City worked hard as always, putting pressure on the opposition from the get go. The work rate from attacking midfielder’s Annabelle Phoenix and Hannah Jarvis soon paid off as Hannah was awarded with a short corner. Ange Hindle, who was patiently waiting at the top of the ‘D’ took a shot which found the end of Milly brown’s stick for a deflection into the bottom right corner, 1-0. Loddon were keeping themselves in the game, they continued to pressure City and found themselves penetrating the ‘D’ on a few occasions however, keeper Serena Scott was having none of it! She slid to the ground claiming the ball as her own. Defenders Leigh-Ann Worrall, Danni Garwood and Karren Dagless confidently cleared any threats that came their way. Forwards Emily Francis and Ellie Brine worked tirelessly upfront, making some lovely leading runs and were looking dangerous in the oppositions half. City were awarded more short corners but couldn’t manage to convert before the half time whistle.  
 
Second half, City had adjusted to the unexpected warmer weather and proceeded to keep the play predominantly in Loddon’s half. It wasn’t long before Ange picked out Becky Gaffney making a piercing run down the right hand side who ran to the base line, pulled it back to Ange who found Milly lurking in front of goal, 2-0. City stepped up their game, there was some lovely ball distribution between the back 5 with Ellie Pitcher confidently switching the play and the front 5 linking up well with quick, simple passes. City condensed the play into Loddon’s 25 which resulted in captain Rosie Humphrey battling in the goal mouth to score two goals in quick succession, 4-0.  
 
The final goal originated from a 16. Karren sent the ball with pace down the right hand side of the pitch where it was picked up by Kate Hartland. Kate managed to jab it past the oncoming defender where Rosie picked it up, drove into the ‘D’, drew the keeper out of her goal before releasing it to Kate who had made a looping run on the left post and smashed it into the open goal to make the final score 5-0. 
 
City 2’s have regained their position at the top on goals ‘for’. Broadland are still hot on their tails with equal points and goal difference. The battle for promotion continues into the last two games of the season.  
 
Player of the match - Rosie Humphrey.  
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 04/03/2017 VS HARLESTON MAGPIES 4 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 04/03/2017 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 04/03/2017 
HEADLINE: Francis secures 2nd hat-trick of the season! 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: Harleston 
RESULT: Won 6-1 
 
REPORT:City took on Harleston Magpies 4’s this week with the objective being to rack up some goals to help out top of the table goal difference tussle. 
 
We knew it wasn’t going to be the easiest of games as Harleston sit 5th in the table and held us to a draw at home in the first half of the season. We started with umph and were 2 – 0 up within 10 minutes, slick passing and great movement on and off the ball created a short corner opportunity. Leigh Ann Worral took the straight strike from the top of the D and rocketed the ball into the goal, 1-0. It was then following some beautiful and effortless passing from Becky Gaffney, Milly Brown and Hannah Jarvis it fell to Ellie Brine who put a perfectly weighted ball into the D for Emily Francis to flick reverse stick past the keeper. 
 
City then started to slow down and heavy leg syndrome took hold, the simple and effective passing ceased. The score remained 2-0 at half time, post team talk from ‘The Calm One’ and ‘The Angry One’, aka our coaches, we went out with determination and on a fresh slate. 
 
It wasn’t long before great play across the back between Leigh Ann Worral, Karren Dagless and Annabelle Pheonix created another attacking opportunity. Rosie Humphrey had a shot saved by the keeper and then pushed it out to Emily Francis waiting on the far post, who popped the ball into the bottom corner below the diving keeper. 
 
Harleston, who looked quick on the break, proved indeed they were, when they put together some slick passes and scored.  
 
It wasn’t long before Ellie Pitcher and Angela Hindle were linking up excellently and the goals flowed, Kate Hartland beating the onrushing keeper during a short corner routine and then shortly after smashing the ball into the goal when 1 on 1 with the keeper. City kept the intensity up Danni Garwood and Summer Haylock kept solid in defence, a final goal and hat-trick was scored by Emily Francis when she received the ball at the top of the D and reverse swept it past the keeper with only a few minutes to go. Final score was 6 – 1 and the chase for promotion is still on. 
 
POTM Emily Francis.  

LADIES 2ND XI - 11/02/2017 VS NORWICH DRAGONS 3 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 11/02/2017 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 11/02/2017 
HEADLINE: Lucky Escape 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: The Den 
RESULT: 0-0 
 
REPORT: 
The Womens 2s started this week’s match top of the Norfolk Premier League, just pipping Broadland on goal difference. City went into the game looking to continue their winning streak as they took on Dragons 3s away at the Den. We knew this was not going to be an easy match with Dragons themselves sitting 3rd in the league and eager to close the gap.  
 
This week saw Rachel Cave make her début at inside forward and Captain Rosie Humphrey playing out of position at right half.  
 
City started strongly, pressed the Dragons team and quickly played out a number of attacks and short corners. Karren Dagless and Leigh-Ann Worrall started a number of attacking moves from the centre of defence, breaking through the midfield. Attacks were lead down the right after Becky Gaffney made multiple tackles and released the ball to Milly Brown, who slipped passed defenders and drove to the baseline.  
 
At times passing was quick, slick and looked impressive however as the half went on and no goals came our passes grew a little too ambitious.  
 
Following a string of City attacks and a solid defensive display City felt on top but went in to half time at 0-0. 
The start of the second half saw Emily Francis and Ellie Brine making attacks down the left. The right side of the pitch was also busy with overlapping play from Rosie Humphrey and Hannah Jarvis. Dragons won a couple of short corners which City dealt with comfortably. 
 
City themselves were awarded further short corners however found their number 1 shooter Leigh-Ann Worrall, who had converted twice last week, on the bench. Alternative routines were played through without success.  
 
City showed great determination and team work all over the field to win the ball back and demonstrated an excellent display of working in pairs to make a tackle. Matilda Warde-Aldam was particularly disruptive to the Dragon’s players’ frustration.  
 
The City defence sprang into action as Dragons started their final attack. City blocked the initial attempts at a shot however goalie Serena Scott, who had not seen much of the ball during the game, was called on to make the final blockade. Smothering the ball and taking the Dragons forward for a bit of a tumble.  
 
At the closing of the game City were awarded a long corner, taken by Angela Hindle, following a self-pass the ball was passed to the back post but failed to find a City forward. City continued to push and were awarded a short corner with a few minutes remaining. Despite a slightly wonky pull out, City readjusted and stick stopper Angela Hindle got a shot away to the far post and injector Rosie Humphrey narrowly missed out on a last minute deflection.  
 
Whilst City clearly won on stats with the majority of possession, awarded short corners, shots and balls turned over, a goal continued to elude them and the game finished 0-0.  
 
Fortunately the Womens 2s maintain their league standing as Evergreens drew with Broadland 2-2.  
 
POM – Angela Hindle  
 
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 04/02/2017 VS DEREHAM 3 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 04/02/2017 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 04/02/2017 
HEADLINE: City 2's secure yet another win 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: TRF 
RESULT: Won 4-0 
 
REPORT: 
This Saturday Norwich City 2’s took on a spirited Dereham 3’s side at Taverham, City were determined to take the game to them, sitting joint top of the league we knew we couldn’t let any points drop. 
 
With great pressure the early possession was all City, piercing runs from Milly Brown and Emily Francis who won player of the match created multiple chances. It was only a few minutes before City took the lead, with Leigh Ann Worrall converting a short corner with a rocket of a straight strike. Ellie Brine and Hannah Jarvis were hassling away creating opportunities and won a string of short corners, before Ellie Brine continued her efforts and converted a shot following a tussle with some players and the keeper with her ball looping into the net. 
 
Dereham made a few forays into our D but were kept at bay by Serena Scott in goal including a fantastic diving tackle. Karren Dagless, Danni Garwood and Leigh Ann Worrall kept the Dereham forwards out of the D intercepting chances outside of the 25 with Becky Gaffney and Ellie Pitcher clearing these balls up the pitch to the forwards with ease. Post half time, City new more goals were needed and they soon came, with a weaving run from Emily Francis, transferred across the pitch to Kate Hartland who put a perfectly timed ball to the far post for Hannah Jarvis to sprint onto and deflect in – straight of the training ground! 
 
Rosie Humphrey and Matilda Warde-Aldam who had been running tirelessly all game kept the pressure up surrounding the Dereham circle and Ange Hindle put more great balls into the D, resulting in another short corner. Injection out to Leigh Ann Worrall and another ball smashed into the back board. 4-0 and top of the league (albeit on goal difference) – not a bad day.  

LADIES 2ND XI - 28/01/2017 VS UEA 2 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 28/01/2017 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 28/01/2017 
HEADLINE: Francis 'flicks' her way to a hat-trick!  
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: TRF 
RESULT: Won 6-2 
 
REPORT:  
City were in the mood for another high intensity match after last week's convincing win against Broadland. Sharp passing from midfielder Angela Hindle and leading runs from Matilda Warde-Aldam saw City putting pressure on their circle. It wasn't long before Emily Francis scored with a looping shot over the keeper.  
City continued to dominate with excellent interlinking between Ellie Pitcher and Karren Dagless on the left and Leigh-Ann Worrall and Annabelle Phoenix on the right. Keeping up the pace, Kate Hartland made it 2-0 with a strike from the post. 
The third goal came from a short corner when Millie Brown drove a rebound into the backboard.  
 
After half time, we continued with the pace and determination of the first half, and found three more goals. Two came from penalty flicks: a UEA body deflected a shot on goal and deliberate fouling against captain Rosie Humphrey. Emily Francis put both firmly in the left corner, getting her hat-trick. Kate Hartland put her second goal past the keeper after some fast passing down the left.  
 
A great game and a well deserved 3 points. Final score: 6-2. 

LADIES 2ND XI - 14/01/2017 VS NORWICH DRAGONS 3 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 14/01/2017 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 14/01/2017 
HEADLINE: Match Postponed! 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: Dragons Den 
RESULT: POSTPONED 
 
REPORT: 
Match Postponed due to Frozen Pitch! 

LADIES 2ND XI - 07/01/2017 VS NORWICH CITY 4 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 07/01/2017 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 07/01/2017 
HEADLINE: Impressive start to the year! 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: TRF 
RESULT: Won 9-0 
 
REPORT: 
For our first match back after Christmas we knew we had to do a thorough warm up to get ourselves back into the hockey mindset. We started well with excellent link up play contributing to Leigh-Ann Worrall scoring the first goal of the game in a short corner to make us 1-0 up. We continued our team play and 4 more goals followed. The second an excellent straight strike from Annabelle Phoenix, the third a goal from Kate Hartland, the fourth a deflection from a defender's stick which Hannah Jarvis hit.  
We went into half time 5-0 up. During half time we discussed our targets which were to switch around the forwards to get them used to playing in different positions and to double our score. We went into the second half continuing our high intensity and superb distribution of the ball around the pitch which was helped by Angela Hindle who played exceptionally in centre midfield. Emily Francis was then able to drive down the left side and score a reverse stick goal. Hannah then ran the ball around the left of the D and crossed the ball in, deflecting it off a defender's foot into the top corner. The best goal of the game came from Milly Brown which started with Hannah running down the middle, slipping it to Milly running down the right who was then able to smash it into the left corner from the top of the D. Two more goals game from Kate, one a reverse stick and one from a short corner making it a hat-trick for Hartland. The final score: 9-0 
We demonstrated a great whole team performance and is an impressive start to the second half of the season! 
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 10/12/2016 VS NORWICH CITY 3 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 10/12/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 10/12/2016 
HEADLINE: The return leg 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE:TRF 
RESULT: Won 3-1 
 
REPORT: 
An early start beckoned for us on a cold and dreary day as another inter club match against the thirds loomed. Moral was good as this was the last league match before the Christmas break.  
 
The match was played with pace from the start with both teams badly wanting the win. With availability being an issue this week we welcomed Danni Garwood back to the fold - we knew she would see the light eventually!  
 
Within 10 minutes of the match starting our only kiwi limped off leaving everyone having to play the full match which for some people wasn't the news they quite wanted to hear! (you all know who we are talking about!)  
 
Our passing was good and fluid led with numerous goal mouth scrambles which saw valiant defending from the opposition. However it wasn't long before our first goal came - Emily Francis seeing sight of the goal and banged it in 1-0. 
 
Our second goal came minutes later which saw Milly brown reacting to a rebound the quickest. 
 
Half time came and went and we knew that the thirds would come out fighting. 
 
Our third goal saw mollae Scott running the line with her pace and scoring a great "not from there goal". 
 
However the thirds were not finished and a misunderstanding between the goal keeper and a full back saw a short corner being awarded which thankfully didn't come to anything! Soon after that the thirds scored which saw Serena Scott initially making a great high looping ball save only to see it spin and go behind her and into the net.  
 
We played well and with great team determination, banked three points and earned our well deserved rest!  

LADIES 2ND XI - 03/12/2016 VS NORWICH DRAGONS 4 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 03/12/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 03/12/2016 
HEADLINE: City 2's take home another win before season turnaround  
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: TRF 
RESULT: Won 3-0 
 
REPORT: 
It was time for the final game of the first half of the season before we take on our 3rd team in the reverse fixture next weekend. We hosted Dragons 4’s at Taverham on a balmy December morning! 
 
With only 12 we knew it was going to be a tough and tiring game particularly as many of the team weren’t feeling in tip top shape but we went out with fight from the start. The first half saw Dragons using their young players speed and determination to create a few opportunities yet our defence remained strong with Karren Dagless and Leigh Ann Worrall held the fort with only a handful of forays into our D. 
 
Annabelle Pheonix and Angela Hindle linked up well to create opportunities for the tirelessly running Milly Brown on the right wing that resulted in opportunities including a 1 on 1 with the keeper that unfortunately clipped the keepers pad. Another chance was created by Hannah Jarvis when she intercepted a Dragon’s cross and out skilled two defenders to find herself in the D, with a reverse sweep her effort went just centimetres wide. 
 
We spread the ball around nicely to change the points of attack, with some piercing runs on the left wing by Emily Francis creating more opportunities with Ellie Brine who was always in the right place to try to finish them off, unfortunately without reward due to some last ditch Dragons defending. A short corner provided the last opportunity of the first half when another speedy injection from Rosie Humphrey went to Kate Hartland who smashed the ball inches wide of the post. 
 
Following half time and an enthusiastic team talk from the Wardale duo City came out wanting it more and were duly rewarded with 3 goals. 2 of these goals were the result of Annabelle Pheonix who never gave up when tackling and drove towards the D with desire, the first finished swiftly and effortlessly put home by Ellie Brine when Annabelle smashed a ball into the D, the other was slotted past the keeper by Milly Brown. 
 
The final goal was courtesy of Kate Hartland who flicked the ball into the back of the net when great interlinking from Annabelle Pheonix and Emily Francis meant that the ball found Rosie Humphrey making a piercing run at the top of the D, it then fell after a save to Kate who converted. Another handful of opportunities arose with Rosie Humphrey and Ellie Brine creating triangles around Dragons defence and with Mollae Scott making a nuisance of herself for the defence with her skilful dribbling creating more chances on goal. Sadly one of these resulted in a ball to the cheek and a subsequent black eye – we hope it’s better soon Molls! 
 
Overall it was an eventful game, and considering we had a diminished team and were carrying two cases of Man Flu – it was a fantastic result! 

LADIES 2ND XI - 26/11/2016 VS CARROW 1 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 26/11/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 26/11/2016 
HEADLINE:  
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: Langley School 
RESULT: Won 5-0 
 
REPORT: 
City 2's played very well on Saturday, with a 5-0 win against Carrow's first team. As most of our goals were as a result of short corners it was clear our practice over the last few weeks had payed off. Ellie Brine scored the first goal as a result of a rebound in a short corner, followed by a strike at goal from Leigh-Ann Worrall. Captain Rosie Humphrey then got the third goal from a dog leg short corner, then Emily Francis secured the last goal in open play after lots of hard work to get into the oppositions D. The final goal was scored by another short corner from Leigh-Ann, which resulted in the team winning 5-0, well done girls! 
 
Match report kindly provided by the well deserved POTM, Matilda Warde-Aldam. 

LADIES 2ND XI - 19/11/2016 VS LODDON 1 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 19/11/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 19/11/2016 
HEADLINE: Poor Day all round! 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: Hobart High School 
RESULT: 3-0 LOSS 
 
REPORT: 
In City's quest for Division 2NE hockey this is a very poor result as they failed to ever really get going as they lost 3-0 away to mid-table Loddon. The less said about this game as the 2s look to bounce back with a win next Saturday against bottom of the league Carrow. 
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 12/11/2016 VS HARLESTON MAGPIES 4 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 12/11/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 12/11/2016 
HEADLINE: The Mighty Comeback 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: TRF 
RESULT: 3-3 
 
REPORT: 
Norwich City 2’s were eager to slot away some goals this week after an interesting game last week and warmed up with umph and excitement. From the off they had the majority of possession, with slick passing and movement off the ball creating many opportunities. The first couple of chances came from quick runs down the wing with Milly Brown and Emily Francis wreaking havoc for the defenders. A few short corners came and went. 
 
It was then when the ball was overturned that Harleston made one of their few forays into our defensive 25. With a short corner won and converted it was time for us to kick into action. A great passing move from Angela Hindle, ‘and Hannah Jarvis meant a cross from Milly Brown came into the D, Kate Hartlands shot was fumbled by the keeper and Emily Francis tried to slot home the leftovers but a defiant defender conceded a flick that Hannah Jarvis put home with ease, 1-1.  
 
Leigh Ann Worrall and Annabelle Pheonix were linking up well in defence and we were keeping possession fantastically, Jenny Brine looked at home in our defence (thank you once again) and linked up well with Rosie Humphrey who put a great stint in, in defence despite usually playing further up the pitch! After a long period of fruitless hockey Harleston broke again and notched up their second short corner and second goal 2-1. 
 
After half time it was Harleston who took charge, with City looking lack lustre for a few minutes, another short corner was won and once again they capitalised, with a ball deflected into Karren Dagless’s chest and they just managed to creep the flick in past Serena Scott who did amazingly well to get a stick to it in the bottom corner unfortunately it was just that little bit too powerful. 
 
City’s never say die attitude was now needed more than ever as the rain continued to hammer down at Taverham. With 10 minutes to go City clicked backed into gear which had been lacking since the end of the first half and began to dominate the ball again and push Harleston back into their own 25. Opportunities were now being created on a frequent basis but the ball would not get over the line. This included a great passage of play by City from one end of the pitch to the other as Karren Dagless and Angela Hindle exchanged passes before a well judged defence cutting through ball to Emily Francis who then played a perfectly timed ball onto the onrushing Ellie Brine in the D, Kate Hartland well positioned by the near post and Ellie found her with another perfectly judged pass. The move was almost complete but Kate was unlucky to only deflect her well-judged flick into the post!  
 
However, Kate Hartland didn’t have to wait long for her goal and with 2 minutes left on the clock City gave themselves a lifeline and a chance of an unlikely point. Another great ball from Angela Hindle found Kate free towards the top of the D who remained composed to slot the ball to the left of the outrushing keeper and into the bottom right corner. With less than 2 minutes now left and with cries of ‘Too Little Too Late’ hey Ali Wardale – don’t doubt us!! It was a ball from Milly Brown into the D that fell neatly to Emily Francis at the back post to flick past the keeper, 3-3. 
 
In a game where we held over 75% of the possession it was tough to find ourselves 3-1 down in the blink of an eye, but our overwhelming team spirit and never die attitude meant we clawed the game back from the brink and remain undefeated. Good effort girls. 
 
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 05/11/2016 VS EVERGREENS 1 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 05/11/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 05/11/2016 
HEADLINE: Talk about leaving it to the last moment! 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: TRF 
RESULT: WON 1-0 
 
REPORT: 
On a grey, cold day city played host to Evergreens. 
City knew what they had to do and we're in confident high spirts despite the gloomy weather. 
City started very strongly which saw fluent confident passes being transferred around the back by Ellie Pitcher, Karren Dagless, Leigh-Ann Worrall and Becky Gaffney which saw youth and experience working well together. The only short corner of the match was taken from the opposite side but even this didn't worry the defence or our GK, Serena Scott. 
Youth and experience again showed it's head with our midfield of Angie Hindle, Rosie Humphrey, Emily Rash and Matilda Warde-Aldam working hard together which saw them feeding lovely long balls to our waiting forwards of Kate Hartland, Ellie Brine, Emily Francis and Milly Brown. 
Various opportunities went begging in the first half with Evergreens defence valiantly defending their goal. Half time came and still City hadn't scored. 
With a couple of tweaks made at half time by City's coaches we went out all guns blazing but yet again we couldn't break the down the opposing defence. City pushed forward time after time in search of a goal. With time ticking away City were awarded a short corner which broke down but again with the pressure mounting we were awarded another short corner with about two minutes to go - so it was now or never!  
With words of wisdom coming from Angie the short corner was taken and after a frantic goal month scramble Emily Francis pushed the ball over the line to win the game in the dying moments of the match. With screams of delight from the whole squad we knew then what we had to do in the dying minute of the match and that was to play our game play whuch we did! 
 
We worked hard, played well and came away with three points - next week we hopefully won't leave it that late! 
 
A well deserved POTM went to Karren Dagless for her tremendous efforts and for getting so high up that pitch! 
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 22/10/2016 VS DEREHAM 3 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 22/10/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 22/10/2016 
HEADLINE: Hartland treble secures City win 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: Dereham 
RESULT: 0-4 Win 
 
REPORT: 
This week saw City travel away to Dereham 3s for a drizzly afternoon encounter. City were in high spirits after warming up to the tunes of 90’s pop favourites S Club 7 and seeing club umpire John Ingham actually arrive on time this week. 
 
City started well and it wasn’t long before their efforts were rewarded when Hartland scored her first of the afternoon. A strong short corner strike finding the bottom corner of the goal.  
 
City then added to their tally before half time when a breakaway attack found Hartland within a sticks length of the goal line, she gratefully tapped in to go two goals up.  
 
Half time came and City were looking good, feeling confident and walking over to the goal with ‘Reach for the Stars’ still ringing in their ears. City made a few tactical tweaks and retook the field of play for the second half.  
Not long after the restart City gave away a suspicious short corner, a stick tackle that no one but the umpire saw. The decision angered City veteran Dagless who subsequently received a green for her protests. 
 
City adjusted well to being one player down and it wasn’t long before City got their third. Jarvis wriggled her way into the D and her shot come pass was deflected in by ‘guess who’ Hartland who was ready to complete her hatrick.  
 
City’s fourth and final goal came when El’ Capitano Humphrey pushed her effort passed the keeper from around the penalty flick spot. The win was secured and City finished the game feeling pleased with their efforts.  
 
City go into the half term break playing well and unbeaten from their first 6 games. 
 
 
 
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 15/10/2016 VS UEA 2 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 15/10/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 15/10/2016 
HEADLINE:  
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: UEA 
RESULT: Won 6-2 
 
REPORT: 
With a squad of 14 players, second placed City 2 had the early morning start away to a UEA 2s side sitting in 4th position in the league. Having the early slot meant we had much more pitch time and our warmup drills could be carried out without trying to squeeze as much into a short period of time. Ali took us all through a tactical session and our minds were focused on the task at hand by the time the match kicked off.  
 
Our minds were in need of a very quick re-focus as the UEA team attacked strongly in the opening few moments of the match and were awarded a short corner which was duly converted in a rather snazzy routine. I know we're usually known for our slow starts, but this was taking the mick ... 
 
We all had a quick moment of reflection and then it was back to business as almost from the restart where the City forwards broke through the UEA defence with some wonderful team play ending with Matilda Warde-Aldam driving from the wing, along the baseline and sending the ball across the mouth of goal where it was bundled in during a scramble. Parity was resumed and we could start again as if it was 0-0. City dominated possesion and territory throughout the remainder of the half with chances coming left, right and centre only to be thwarted by the assertive UEA keeper who was having a fantastic match. Numerous penalty corners were awarded showing our dominance and apparently one of these was converted by Leigh-Ann Worrall, although she is struggling to remember how this happened, but will take it for the fantasy points on offer 🙂 
 
With the score remaining at 1-2 for the half, we were able to kick on in the second half and play some lovely hockey. Hannah Jarvis got the second half off to a strong start having been on the end of a great pass and knocked the ball over the line to make it 1-3. With everybody starting to form a great understanding, play was flowing in the attacking third of the pitch and again we were dominating most aspects of the game. Milly was again outstanding on the right-hand side taking on defenders and changing points of attack where necessary with Kate Hartland and Hannah Jarvis running rings around the defenders. 
 
A wave of short corners came and went and we were unlucky to have the whistle go as a shot went goalward, and another goal chalked off after intervention from a City player owning up to the umpires that the ball was struck from outside the D, hence me writing the report and not someone else who shall remain nameless ... 
 
Ange Hindle was composed in the vital central midfield position with not much getting through and having the ability to switch play through the defenders of Ellie Pitcher, Karren Dagless, Alex Le Mesurier, Leigh-Ann Worrall and Becky Gaffney whilst also releasing the inside forwards of Rosie Humphrey, Emily Rash, Matilda Warde-Aldam and Annabelle Phoenix. The inside forwards were pressing high at regular intervals exposing gaps and the goals started to flow in such was the pressure being put on the UEA defence. With such a high press being carried out, the defence did not have a great deal to do, but didn't get distracted and kept to the task at hand of trying to prevent the UEA team from getting too near to Serena Scott in the City goal. 
 
There is only so much pressure a defence can hold out and further goals came in the second half with Milly Brown deflecting in on the right-hand post to continue her great start to the season following some great midfield work from Hannah Jarvis and Annabelle Phoenix after a timely interception and reverse-stick clearance from Alex Le Mesurier which left the UEA forward wrong-footed and on her backside. Captain Rosie found herself on the score sheet after sweeping in a well-directed cross before the UEA side scored quickly from the re-start. This was to be their last scoring opportunity, but unfortunately City were not quite finished and Kate Hartland was able to put in the 6th and final goal after Emily Rash had sent out a through ball to Rosie running up the right wing. She was able to send in a ball from the top-right of the D for Hartland to slot home on the post as reward for her constant running and determination. 
 
Thoroughly deserved Player of the Match went to Matilda Warde-Aldam who was first to every 50-50 ball and strong in everything she did. 

LADIES 2ND XI - 08/10/2016 VS BROADLAND 1 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 08/10/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 08/10/2016 
HEADLINE: Last minute goal cruel on City! 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: Taverham High School 
RESULT: 2-2 DRAW 
 
REPORT: 
In this already top of the table clash it was the 2s who were left rueing their missed chances as penalty corner equaliser in the final seconds of the game gave Broadland an underserved point. The game started a great pace with chances at both ends, City took the lead however with a great strike from Leigh Ann-Worral from a penalty corner, however City couldn't keep hold of their lead for long as Broadland equalised with a good team move, the game remained a high pace as it finished 1-1 at the break.  
 
After the interval the game remained fast paced as City created many chances with both Kate Hartland and Emily Francis coming very close to scoring City's deserved 2nd, City did however score the 2nd goal when Broadlands keeper made a double save to keep out Hartland the ball feel perfectly to Ellie Brine to tap home. City continued to create and miss chances as the third killer goal evaded them, and in the final minute after the final whistle and as Broadland pushed everyone forward for their penalty corner, a shot from the top of the D deflected around off a number of sticks before being tapped home at the far post. FT: 2-2 a Very Hard result for City to take.  
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 01/10/2016 VS NORWICH DRAGONS 3 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 01/10/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 01/10/2016 
HEADLINE: High Spirits 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: Taverham H20 
RESULT: 2-0 Win 
 
REPORT: 
Riding high after two wins on the bounce, the 2's encouraged high team spirits by playing some 90's pop in the changing rooms. This was sure to secure another victory.  
 
Starting the game with a high intensity and creating numerous chances the 2’s were unlucky to not find the back of the net. The front 5 continued to pile pressure on the Dragons defence, whilst Karren Dagless, Alex leMesuier and Leigh-Ann Worrall swept up any threats posed from the oppositions attacking options.  
 
With 35 minutes left to score, remaining composed was key and the womens 2s began the half determined to gain the lead. Emily Francis, Ellie Brine and Milly Brown were unlucky to not find a way through from the sweeping balls across the goal mouth. Eventually, the 2s managed to take advantage when Ellie Brine smashed the ball into the back of the net from a well rehearsed short corner routine. The score line was increased further as Ellie Brine found a ball which was swept in from the left side of the pitch by Matilda Warde-Aldam. In the final ten minutes, efforts from Ange Hindle and Annabelle Pheonix in midfield prevented Dragons finding a way back into the game. The final scoreline reflected a convincing win for the womens 2’s.  
 
Match report kindly provided by the well deserved player of the match Milly Brown.  

LADIES 2ND XI - 24/09/2016 VS NORWICH CITY 4 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 24/09/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 24/09/2016 
HEADLINE: Second Inter-Club Match. 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: Taverham 
RESULT: Won 6-1 
 
REPORT: 
The womens 2’s faced their second inter club match within two weeks. High expectations had been set, winning all their pre-season matches bar a narrow loss to a team two leagues above. Riding high on last weeks triumphant win the seconds were out to secure those next 3 points. 
 
The Womens 4’s put up a tough fight and gave the 2’s a run for their money especially within the first 10 mins, making it hard work. 
Play continued, after some early high presses the front 5 piled on the pressure, Milly Brown and Elle Brine had a surge of sweeping balls across the goal mouth but unfortunately they couldn't find a way through. We were making headway and the run of play was in the oppositions end for most of the first half. The first goal eventually came from Kate Hartland, she took an early ball at the top of the ‘D’ and finally we hit the back board. We now had to keep the momentum going and work even harder to maintain the lead. Shortly after we were rewarded with goal number two from Rosie Humphrey who received a ball across the face of the goal and pushed it in passed the keeper to make it 2-0 before half time. 
 
Half time came and with a few words of encouragement from coach Ali Wardale, we were off again with 35mins left to hammer some more home. We expected the Womens 4’s to come out hard in the second half and we were not disappointed a short corner was awarded - but we kept it clear. Play continued pretty evenly in the second half with some good transfers and great ball distribution from the defence namely, Becki Gaffney, Karren Dagless and Megan Conway through to Ange Hindle in the middle. The 4’s hit back with a long ball through to Holly Robinson who was lurking dangerously in the ‘D’, Holly pulled goalkeeper Serena Scott off her line, slipped it through to Mollae Scott to make it 2-1.  
The pressure was on to keep possession until the final whistle, the 2's got their head down and within 10mins we made the game our own with two goals in quick succession form Emily Rash and a further one from Kate Hartland, we were now 4-1 and the end was in sight. 
There was an opportunity for Kate Hartland to grab her hat trick and she didn't let us down with a cheeky little pass from Elle Brine it was in the bag making it 5-1. Well done Kate first  
hat-trick of the season! In the last few minutes our final goal came from a sweet piece of team work allowing Ellie Brine to get her name on the score board - final score 6-1.  
Congratulations girls! Two games in, 13 goals on the scoreboard and top of the table. 
 
Player of the Match - Emily Rash. 

LADIES 2ND XI - 17/09/2016 VS NORWICH CITY 3 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 17/09/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 17/09/2016 
HEADLINE: City record first win of the league season! 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: Taverham High School 
RESULT: 7-3 WIN 
 
REPORT: 
In the opening league game of the season it was the Womens 2s who beat their club counterparts the Womens 3s. Two goals from Emily Francis and a third from the returning Ange Hindle gave the 2s a 3-0 lead going to the break. After the break further goals were added by Rosie Humphrey and Ellie Brine before the 3s pulled one back from a PC. Milly Brown added a 6th for the 2s before Olivia Greenway added a 2nd for 3s. The game finished with Emily Francis adding a 7th and completing her hatrick before in the final seconds Holly Robinson scored a third for the 3s. FT: 7-3  
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 11/09/2016 VS SUDBURY (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 11/09/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 11/09/2016 
HEADLINE: City suffer first defeat of the season! 
PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY 
VENUE: Culford School 
RESULT: 3-1 LOSS 
 
Scorer: 
Kate Hartland 
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 11/09/2016 VS BURY ST EDMUNDS (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 11/09/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 11/09/2016 
HEADLINE: City put 2 past a strong Bury side! 
PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY 
VENUE: Culford School 
RESULT: 2-0 WIN 
 
Scorers: 
Sabina Illing, Leigh Ann-Worral (PC) 
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 08/09/2016 VS NORWICH DRAGONS 3 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 08/09/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 08/09/2016 
HEADLINE: City's great pre-season continues  
PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY 
VENUE: UEA 
RESULT: 4-1 WIN 
 
REPORT: 
In City's 4th pre-season game they took on a strong and experienced Dragons team however they proved no competition for the 2s, as goals from Emilly Francis (2) and Kate Hartland (2) gave the 3s a routing win. That's 4 from 4 for City in pre-season.  
 

LADIES 2ND XI - 03/09/2016 VS DEREHAM 2 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 03/09/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 03/09/2016 
HEADLINE: Pre-Season Success for City 2s! 
PRE - SEASON FRIENDLY 
VENUE: Greenfields Road 
RESULT: 5-1 WIN 
 
REPORT: 
In City's 3rd pre-season game of the season they recorded a third win after positive wins against both North Norfolk 1 (2-1) and Dragons 3s (3-1). This week they took on Dereham 3s and recorded a comfortable win with goals each for Ellie Brine, Emily Francis, Rosie Humphrey and a brace from Milly Brown gave the 2s a 5-1 victory.  

LADIES 2ND XI - 01/09/2016 VS NORTH NORFOLK 1 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 2nd XI 
DATE: 01/09/2016 
FIXTURE: Womens 2nd XI VS 01/09/2016 
HEADLINE: High Spirits 
LEAGUE: NORFOLK PREMIER DIVISION 
LEAGUE SPONSORS: EMPRESA LIMITED 
VENUE: Taverham 
RESULT: WON 2-0 
 
REPORT: 
Riding high after two wins on the bounce, the 2's encouraged high team spirits by playing some 90's pop in the changing rooms. This was sure to secure another victory.  
 
Starting the game with a high intensity and creating numerous chances the 2’s were unlucky to not find the back of the net. The front 5 continued to pile pressure on the Dragons defence, whilst Karren Dagless, Alex leMesuier and Leigh-Ann Worrall swept up any threats posed from the oppositions attacking options.  
 
With 35 minutes left to score, remaining composed was key and the womens 2s began the half determined to gain the lead. Emily Francis, Ellie Brine and Milly Brown were unlucky to not find a way through from the sweeping balls across the goal mouth. Eventually, the 2s managed to take advantage when Ellie Brine smashed the ball into the back of the net from a well rehearsed short corner routine. The score line was increased further as Ellie Brine found a ball which was swept in from the left side of the pitch by Matilda Warde-Aldam. In the final ten minutes, efforts from Ange Hindle and Annabelle Pheonix in midfield prevented Dragons finding a way back into the game. The final scoreline reflected a convincing win for the womens 2’s.  
 
Match report kindly provided by the well deserved player of the match Milly Brown.