Norwich Corinthians Match Report 3/3/12

Today's two matches were always going to be tough, with the Corinthians 'hand-picked super team' and a determined Taverham side (as we beat them 3 - 0 last time). Although the final outcome could have been better, there are many teams in the league that have come off far worse. There were flashes of brilliance from all the players today and it comes when they are thinking ahead. That's the next step in training (if only to save the adults heated vocal encouragement - or shouting - from the sidelines).

No photos as I forgot to get the camera out. Any parents who fancy taking some snaps in future, please let us know.

Taverham game (HPR lost 2 - 0)

HPR soon had the Taverham side on the back foot but the play was end to end . A throw in deep into the HPR end resulted in a goal kick which was poached and soon back in the HPR net. 1 - 0 to Taverham. A painful incident for Ted and a chance for HPR from a free kick taken by Archie R was stopped by the goalie with Ted firing the rebound back going straight to the goalie hands. Evie did well to cover the goal as HPR noticeably weren't as hungry as usual. A Taverham corner produced their second goal, Frankie said it came off him as the big red haired player pushed him over - one of several physical challenges from the blues and this one resulting in a substitution as Aidan came on to cover defence.

The team were swapped around for the second half with some good coverage by Archie G in midfield, clearing a corner with a fine header. Frankie made a decent save to keep the score line the same.

Norwich Corinthians game (HPR lost 2 - 1)

A short break and a jammy dodger each and we were up against the 'wonderteam'. The HPR defence weren't having any of it from the start and we were soon putting pressure on the hand picked yellows. Max and Felix were holding the back and Ted kept his eye on the ball making some good judgements. Frankie put in some strong midfield play and quick thinking claiming the ball and getting it quickly up to Archie R, who popped one home, much to the delight of the team. The yellows pressed straight forward and forced a fine save from Ted from some tense goal mouth action. Frankie continued to make play in midfield and Archie R had two more attempts saved.

The second half played out differently, but some highlights included a mighty save from Archie G. The HPR defence needed to remain solid for this half to protect the lead, but Corinthians made the most of it and had two goals, one from a lucky (for them) goal kick. Sol felt frustrated in midfield and wasn't able to demonstrate his best skills, but his form on the pitch caused a lot of problems for the opposition. His developing speed and footwork will establish him as a midfield star. Aidan and Luke were able to make a couple of breaks forward but just couldn't out fox the opposition as they usually do. Aidan was unlucky with a fine run and shot that went just wide close to the final whistle.

Player of the match was Frankie for quick thinking and dynamic midfield play.

We had a good post match team talk where it was agreed that our team are all very good friends and we all get to play, and we all enjoy. As someone said "it's only a game". And we will deploy the 'Jammy Dodger' tactic before any future games!

Next match is against Lakeford at Taverham on 17 March (although we will probably play a friendly match or two that day against Norwich United and Taverham).