Results

WOMENS 1ST XI - 23/03/2019 VS ST ALBANS 2 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 23/03/2019 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 23/03/2019 
HEADLINE: P is for Perfection 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: Taverham 
RESULT: 1 - 0 VICTORY 
REPORT: 
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjNjplL6ayI 
 
See above for your background music, go get a cup of tea and prepare for the upcoming emotional rollercoaster. Let’s set the scene: 
 
- Norwich city: 3rd bottom, with 16 points and a -28 goal difference that we prefer not to talk about. 
 
- Sevenoaks and West Harts: lurking 1 point below, playing each other this weekend, both with a significantly better goal difference. 
 
- 2 teams relegated. The hopes of surviving in the East Prem league after promotion just last season was precariously balanced in a grand, end of season finale. Who doesn't love a last minute drama? 
 
As shin pads snapped on, red bull cans cracked open and ribbons slinked into hair, a nervous edge filled the pre match prep. Neither side could break the deadlock in a fiercely contested first half. Suzie was the first warrior to fall, struck with an early calf injury that I don’t even think we can blame on Cookie. Mic Tootill nobly stepped into her sizeable shoes at the back and was every bit as much a brick wall. Great early spells of passing and possession opened up a host of short corners and City chances. Penalty corners however are not a P we’re fond of and a strong set of keeper pads kept the score 0-0. 
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4OOum4Vm-M 
 
Perseverance however is a P we can manage and as the sun shone down over a glorious second half, the hard work of the last 12 months started to pay off. Rachel Philips’ silky runs down the left hand side carved open the St Albans midfield and great running from Ellie B, Krystal and Emily up front kept the chances coming. Eventually Oli managed to pounce on a bobbling pass that trickled across the whole D and with a well-executed finish at the far post suddenly victory was in sight.  
 
Coach Pies remained calm and composed. There was barely an umpire warning, only a squeak of voice breaking with cries of FIND EACH OTHER and maybe just 4 small tears. Finally, a brief scuffle, quick card or 2 we can forget about and a very welcome final whistle. Safety … by 1 goal … in the last 5 minutes … fabulously done.  
 
It’s been a mammoth effort over the last 2 years to achieve promotion and then prove we’re good enough to stay. The stress may have nearly killed me, but in the wise old words of Kelly Clarkson “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”. BRING ON 2020. East Prem, we're coming for you. 
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sg_1atgn4jk  

WOMENS 1ST XI - 09/03/2019 VS COP 1 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 09/03/2019 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 09/03/2019 
HEADLINE: NCHC LADIES 1S V PETERBOROUGH 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: TRF  
RESULT: 1-1 
 
REPORT: 
 
After an amazing performance away before Christmas, city came home with a 3-2 win, so were raring to take on Peterborough on their home turf. With it looking tight at the bottom of the table City desperately needed to come away with some points.  
Both teams started strong with high presses and intensity. End to end play created chances for both teams, however neither could convert. After an intense 15 minutes Peterborough won a short corner and scored the first goal of the match with a slightly lifted shot into the far corner. Peterborough then went to a half press for the remainder of the half and City played the ball around the back until they found holes in the opposition’s tight formation. Despite the defensive tactics from Peterborough, City managed to still create promising chances, however great saves from the goalie kept the score at 0-1 until half time.  
City knew they had more to bring and were eager to start the second half stronger and with more desire and determination.  
City retained their high press throughout the match, putting extreme pressure on Peterborough’s defence. Many more chances came for City, one from a reverse pass from Harriet creating a close chance for Krystal who put it just above the cross bar. City’s high press was tiring but many interceptions were made, Olivia picked a lifted ball across the goal from Peterborough’s defence and with a great quick shot Oli slotted the ball into the corner of the goal. Score 1-1. After bad game management in recent weeks, city remained calm and worked the ball around. The opposition were back to a high press, putting lots of pressure on City’s defence as they were desperate to get a goal back. However City continued to dominate the second half, with many more chances coming. However neither team were able to score, final score 1-1. 

WOMENS 1ST XI - 02/03/2019 VS BROXBOURNE 1 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 02/03/2019 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 02/03/2019 
HEADLINE: An intense and unlucky final five minutes for City 1s 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: 
RESULT: 
 
REPORT: 
 
City started strong with multiple attacks on goal from forwards Olivia Williams and Emily Francis but near misses and saves from Broxbourne’s keeper kept the score to 0-0. End to end play meant the midfield had to work tirelessly and with only 12 players (a smaller squad than usual) city began to tire. A scuffle in the D and Broxbourne sneaked the ball over the line, score 0-1. Great tackles from Suzy Edwards and Fongy Chung at the back gave city a counter attack and a quick through ball into the D from Ellie Brine set up Krystal Bishop for her first goal with a great shot into the far corner of the goal. Just before half time City conceded a short corner which led to a run of countless more, but amazing tackles from Kathy Sinnamon and Jo Staines kept the score to 1-1 at half time. City were raring to go following a positive team talk. After expecting this to be a tough game against a team battling for promotion, City were on top form. Midfielders Alice Gill and Hannah Jarvis made great runs creating multiple chances but City struggled to get past Broxbourne’s solid defence. Finally a great run up the wing from Olivia Williams and a slick ball through to Krystal gave City another chance. A hit towards goal from Krystal and an unlucky deflection from the oppositions defender, city were up 2-1. With less than 7 minutes to go Norwich needed to keep calm, however panic kicked in and led to another never ending run of short corners. Numerous tackles from Harriet Johnson and an eternity of excellent saves from Mikayla Mae Glover stopped Broxbourne’s shots, but City struggled to get the ball out. Finally the opposition scored their second goal from one of their many short corners bringing the match back to a draw. Now 2 minutes to go and City remained unsettled. The pressure was building and with a sneaky interception and counter attack from Broxbourne, the opposition scored in the final move of the game. Unfortunate result but a great team performance against a tough opposition.  

WOMENS 1ST XI - 16/02/2019 VS CAMBRIDGE CITY 2 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 16/02/2019 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 16/02/2019 
HEADLINE: Did you know Jo scored a flick? 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: TRF 
RESULT: 2-2, draw 
 
REPORT:  
Krystal absolutely smashed a blinder from an angle only she could achieve. 
Jo slotted a P flick in text book style. 
Cambridge also scored 2 bang average goals (nothing to write home about). 
Haz got a yellow cause the umpires missed a foul, and did not appreciate her helpful attempt to explain this to them... 
Pies only had to go full Dad mode for a couple of mins! 
Mikayla Tootill was POM, for some absolutely sick work in defence, and will be sincerely missed when she goes boozing round the states! Have a great time Mik! 
Thanks to the 2s for their lively support.  
Report written live from Be at One! (I’m sorry, needs must le sesh must go on!) 

WOMENS 1ST XI - 09/02/2019 VS CANTERBURY 2 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 09/02/2019 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 09/02/2019 
HEADLINE: Subs, balls? Nah who needs them 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: Canterbury 
RESULT: a quick sum to work it out 
c - (b+a) : (d + e) 
Where: 
A = number of balls we arrived to Canterbury with (1)  
B = number of balls acquired after quick trip to sports direct. (7) good work Harrot  
C = number of players (11) WHO NEEDS SUBS 
D = number of NCHC cards (0), shocking  
E = number of farms visited on pre match detour (1) 
REPORT: 
 
For those of you struggling with the maths, don’t worry yourselves too much about the score. The womens 1s’ 3rd trip to Kent in 6 weeks was more about the journey; a tale of overcoming hardships, togetherness and endurance. The long day began in good spirits with a sparsely filled minibus departing Thickthorn, Dizzy Rascal blaring. We took a “brief detour” to collect our young farmer from work and 45 miles of Norfolk countryside later made it back to the A11. Then came the call to check the balls were in the keeper bag. “No” came the reply. Ideal. Next the Dartford crossing and that big road round London that people complain about. 6 lanes clearly isn’t enough. 45 minute delay.  
 
Anyway with a quick trip to sports direct and some rally minibus driving we made it to Canterbury with time for a wee and 7 balls. The focus in the first 15 minutes was perhaps too much on conserving legs and Canterbury snuck in 3 early goals. Despite this however, heads remained high and the following hour saw some delightful City hockey. At the back Suze intercepted ball after ball and half backs worked tirelessly up and down the wings. There were triangles, hexagons and maybe even an octagon as delicate passing opened up opportunities up front. Only a solid post and some good goalkeeping kept Emily and Irene off the score sheet. Eventually our pressure paid off and a well worked short corner broke to Oli who polished off a fine reverse stick hit into the bottom corner. Who needs an Argentinian international? So whilst today wasn't quite the result we were hoping for, it was a phenomenal effort against a team at the opposite end of the league with only 11 players. It could have been so much worse... 

WOMENS 1ST XI - 26/01/2019 VS SEVENOAKS 2 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 26/01/2019 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 26/01/2019 
HEADLINE: City leave it late for dramatic win over struggling Sevenoaks 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: SEVENOAKS, KENT 
RESULT: CITY 3, SEVENOAKS 2 
 
REPORT: 
 
City leave it late for dramatic win over struggling Sevenoaks 
 
For the second weekend in a row, City made the long 3 hour trip to Kent, this time venturing to Sevenoaks. With a later than usually push back of 3pm, City had a short but dynamic warm up in the Kent drizzle. City were raring to go from the first whistle with City having all of the possession and attacking play in the Sevenoaks half. Within the first 10 minutes, City had a plethora of opportunities to take the lead. Some lovely one touch passes by Oli Williams set up Krystal Bishop who was unlucky not to have scored, with one shot going over the bar and the other going slightly wide. City sustained the pressure in the Sevenoaks D and finally broke the deadlock when Sophie Mullan worked her magic down the right side bar line and pulled it back to the P spot to an unmarked Bishop for a tap in. 1-0 City! Sevenoaks finally settled into the game and a quick thinking aerial behind City’s defence allowed a Sevenoaks player to run the bar line and pull it back to a waiting Sevenoaks forward to tap in. 1-1. City had a couple of short corners but were unable to convert and were also reduced to 10 men for 2 minutes with a green card awarded for a stick tackle and an injury to Williams. Half time: 1-1.  
 
City knew they were the better team and needed to take their chances in the second half if they were to return to Norfolk victorious. However, it was Sevenoaks who started the second half looking the more likely team to score with an effective high press causing problems for City. Nonetheless the solid defensive unit of Harriet Johnson, Pui Foung Chung, Suzy Mitchell, Micayla Tootill and goalie Mikayla-Mae Glover kept Sevenoaks at bay. After another attack from Sevenoaks, an early defensive hit out from City allowed them to break down the left-hand side. Irene Ramirez used her silky skills to go past several players and passed to an on running Bishop who drilled the ball home from the top of the D. 2-1 City! 
 
This lead was unfortunately short-lived. Another high press from Sevenoaks forced a mistake from City which allowed Sevenoaks to penetrate the D with 3 against 1 and another tap in. 2-2. The game got scrappy and City received another two green cards for ‘back of stick’ and a stick tackle. Yet, City’s hunger for the win grew as the match went on and were pressuring the Sevenoaks defence with their own high press. Some excellent midfield work by Mullan, Ramirez, Jocasta Staines and Alice Gill created some teasing shooting opportunities for Bishop, Williams, Ellie Brine and Emily Francis, who were unlucky to not capitalise due to some good saves by the Sevenoaks goalie. To add to the drama, with five minutes to go the floodlights decided to turn off. While waiting for them to turn back on, City regrouped and knew they could get the must needed win. As light reappeared, City pushed for the winner in a tense final five. With a minute to go, City received a free hit just outside the Sevenoaks D. A quick free hit by Brine caught Sevenoaks off guard, with the ball finding Francis who did a cheeky reverse pass to an unmarked Bishop at the far post for an easy tap in to make it 3-2. City celebrated as the final whistle blew seconds later. A deserved win for their determination and winning mentality that hopefully can be taken forward to next week’s home game against Chelmsford.  
 
SCORE: 3-2 
MOTM: Krystal Bishop 

WOMENS 1ST XI - 19/01/2019 VS BROM & BECKS 1 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 19/01/2019 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 19/01/2019 
HEADLINE: Well where do we start... 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: Away - Brom & Beck 
RESULT: Loss - 3-5 
 
REPORT: 
 
Well where do we start, after a heavy 3 hour bus journey to Bromley, we got out and had to shake it off. An intense warm up from captain Jo certainly got our heads in game mode, and we were ready to go.  
 
From pushback we new we were in for a competitive game against top of the leauge, but we were fighting from the start. After great defence from fong , kathy and mikala, a quick breakthrough from bromley came, and the argintianan intonational broke though scoring with a reverse shot into the roof. Nothing could stop her. However as the game commensed Norwich were putting up the fight of the season and showing Bromley that we were in the game and were not going to give up the battle. Mykayla made some cracking saves in goal throughout the first half. Norwich came and made a fast counter attack on bromley, where The midfield worked the ball to ellie B who scored a banger. Fong scoring a blaster minutes after.  
Half time score 4-2?  
 
Second half starts and Norwich were raring to go. Slick play throughout midfield continues, and norwich were defending hard and strong throughout the second half. Every single player on Norwich’s team were putting in a brilliant fight, and were playing great hockey. The second half was won by norwich, as Irinea scored the last goal final score being 5-3. The umpires were great (apart from a card for ireina) Conditions were great. And coach Pies was very proud of our performance. Although final score was 5-3 as a team we were on top form and are shore we will be giving it our best fight next week. Man of match Alice Gill. #BLEEDYELLOW. 

WOMENS 1ST XI - 12/01/2019 VS WEST HERTS 1 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 12/01/2019 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 12/01/2019 
HEADLINE: Digging in for the Draw  
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: Taverham  
RESULT: 1-1  
 
REPORT: 
On the first match back after a long Christmas break, Norwich City welcomed West Herts for the start of the second half of the season.  
 
Norwich started strong with some of their trademark quick-pass hockey, finding excellent space down both sides allowing for aggressive penetration into the D early in the half. 
 
Krystal Bishop found herself in an excellent position in front of goal at one point but, despite displaying her usual dexterous 3-D skills, could only find the crossbar rather than the back of the net.  
 
West Herts countered Norwich's attacks with some strong play of their own, but thanks to some excellent defending from Pui Fong Chung, Jo Staines, Pui Fong Chung, Harriet Johnson, Kathy Sinnamon, and Goalkeeper Mikayla-Mae Glover, their efforts went unrewarded.  
 
Before the end of the first half, a quick free hit-out from Pui Fong Chung to Jo Staines in defense traveled up the line to Ellie Brine who found Oli Williams. Quick thinking Williams managed to find Bishop in space at the top of the D, who then quickly and decisively hit the ball across the D and into the back of the goal to make the score 1-0 to Norwich.  
 
The second half saw both teams come out fighting, and some excellent passing in the midfield from Rachel Phillips and Sophie Mullan to Emily Francis, Hannah Jarvis, Ellie Brine, Williams and Bishop in the forward line provided Norwich with some exciting opportunities which they were unlucky not to convert.  
 
However, West Herts took every opportunity presented by Norwich's attacking formation and, after overturning the ball, made a break which caught many of the Norwich City defense and midfield players unable to chase back in time and led to the equaliser, despite the best efforts of defenders Chung and Toothil, and Goalkeeper Glover.  
 
Despite the inimitable aplomb with which Norwich City attacked the last minutes of the game, they were unable to find the extra goal they desired and arguably deserved, leading to a 1-1 draw at full time.  
 
Player of the match went to Harriet Johnson for her dynamic defending, and support of attacking play from the back.  
 

WOMENS 1ST XI - 05/01/2019 VS DEREHAM 1 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 05/01/2019 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 05/01/2019 
HEADLINE: Burning off the Mince Pies with a Post Xmas Friendly 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: TRF 
RESULT: 1-1 
 
REPORT: 
After a long Christmas break, City 1s took on Dereham in a friendly. City were slow out of the blocks and despite fantastic saves from Mikayla-Mae Glover, Dereham managed to sneak a goal early on. City continued to pressure Dereham, with many chances created by Olivia Williams and Emily Francis which were narrowly missed. The end to end play saw City beginning to tire, but great defending from Kathy Sinnamon and Fong Chung kept the score to 0-1 until half time. The team talk focussed on possesion and playing to the best of our ability, as we all knew we were a little rusty. Norwich started the second half much stronger, working harder determined to get back into the game. Slick passing between midfielders Rachel Mayne, Rachael Phillips and Lucy Tilbrook showed City's true playing ability and Norwich were in control. Due to City's domination upfront, Norwich were caught high, allowing skillful opposition to work their way up the pitch. Strong defending from Harriet Johnson and Jocasta Staines, however, kept Dereham at only 1 up. Fantastic interceptions from forwards Sophie Mullan and Georgia Cleveland allowed Norwich to repeatedly catch Dereham on the break, creating further opportinities for City in front of goal. Nearing the end of the match City were awarded a penalty corner and with a well rehearsed routine, Rachel Mayne was the one to slot the ball into the goal. Great work rate from everyone until the end kept the pressure on Dereham, and City were unlucky to not score another from their few final chances. Next week City are back to league matches, with crucial games both Saturday and Sunday against West Herts and Wapping.  

WOMENS 1ST XI - 24/11/2018 VS HARLESTON MAGPIES 2 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 24/11/2018 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 24/11/2018 
HEADLINE: Feliz Cumpleanos 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
 
RESULT: Score: 0 - 3 (loss) 
 
GOALSCORERS: Rachel (work it out) 
 
REPORT: 
On this cold, blustery November afternoon the Womens 1s stepped up to play their part in the Norwich City vs Magpies Club Clash.  
 
The first half isn’t really worth focussing on. There was some pre match yoga, cups of tea and a slightly sleepy start. Magpies played some good stuff and scored a couple of early goals with strong shots from tight angles. The 3rd goal, well I completely missed that one. I’m told Magpies broke though the right hand side, smashed the ball goalwards, and after a scramble on the line the ball dropped into the City goal. Unsure exactly who the final touch was off. Lucky the game’s on video… 
 
A strong half time team talk decided that we should probably do better. And what do you know; the second half brought some delightful play with triangles down the pitch opening up opportunities and a whole host of City short corners. Some great saves from the Magpie’s keeper and solid defending unfortunately kept the second half goalless. Mentions should go to POTM Micayla Toothill for valiant defending throughout, including a reverse stick, diving tackle of the season and the rest of the gals for tiresome work pressurising Magpies to win the ball and dominate the second half. The game finished a 3-0 loss but not to worry, the lowly Norwich City will rise again. 
 
The afternoon ended with a song of Feliz Cumpleanos to the lovely Irene and she agreed that a Lager Shandy was better than Sangria any day. Good multiculturalism from Norwich City. 
 
 

WOMENS 1ST XI - 17/11/2018 VS COP 1 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 17/11/2018 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 17/11/2018 
HEADLINE: City get the points and the bread! 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: Peterborough 
RESULT: Norwich city 3-2 CoP 
 
REPORT: 
After a slow journey to Peterborough, Norwich City quickly settled into the game. With a few early chances, City were struggling to find the back of the net. Peterborough too showed determination, winning a short corner which resulted in left defender Sally Rose injured and out the the remainder of the game. This didn’t dishearten City though, with a quick change of formation, and only one sub, Irene found Olivia Williams who crossed it to a Krystal Bishop who brought City to a 1-0 lead! Half time came, sugar on board and both teams were back out to fight! Not long into the second half Sophie Mullan crossed it to Irene, who slipped it to Olivia Williams who passed it straight back for another confident goal! Peterborough fought back shortly after scoring their first goal but this spurred Norwich on further with some excellent movement down the pitch from Harriet Johnson, Jo Staines and Ange Hindle where they found Krystal Bishop who scored a straight strike across goal, landing in the bottom left hand corner and securing Norwich City to a 3-1 lead! Peterborough continued to show their determination with some great movement down the pitch, winning a short corner and bringing them to 3-2! The game was so close, both teams fighting hard, Peterborough for the draw and City for the win! Micayla Toothill, Fong Chung, Harriet Johnson and newly found position as left back for Rachel Mayne continued to hold the defence strongly, with olivia Williams sending some excellence balls out to the other end of the pitch. With the end nearing Player of the match Sophie Mullan cleared the ball out of City's half and the whistle was blown - a 3-2 win for Norwich city and 10 points in the bag!  

WOMENS 1ST XI - 11/11/2018 VS WAPPING (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 11/11/2018 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 11/11/2018 
HEADLINE: Comeback Queens 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: Lee Valley 
RESULT: 3-2 
 
REPORT: 
On a sunny Sunday afternoon, Norwich City Womens 1s travelled to Lee Valley to play against Wapping in their first round of the Cup. Since City started a new season in a new league, they were also promoted to Tier One. Knowing this could be a tough round, Norwich went into the game positive and relaxed and also very eager to play on the Olympic pitch (in the wise words of Georgia Cleveland: we did it for the gram).  
 
Norwich were slow out of the blocks in the first half but with great saves from Mikayla-Mae ‘bleed yellow’ Glover, City managed to keep attacking shots away. Many defensive short corners relied on solid defending from Fong Chung, Leigh-Ann Worrall, Harriet Johnson and Jocasta Staines. Despite the relentless defending, city conceded a penalty stroke from a messy tackle, with the opposition slotting the ball neatly into the left side net. Wonderful distribution from midfielders Rachel Mayne and Georgia Cleveland gave City a few chances at goal, however great saves from Wapping's keeper kept the score at 0-1 until half time. City realised they had a better chance at winning this than they first thought and were raring to go out strong and fighting in the second half. 
 
End to end play required maximum effort from the entire team and despite the strong defending, a well rehearsed short corner from Wapping found them their second goal, but city still weren’t giving up. City’s forwards worked relentlessly to press Wapping’s defenders and great pick ups from Irene Martinez created promising chances for City. A textbook chain of passing led to City’s first goal from Krystal Bishop with a strong strike into the corner of the goal. Quick free hits from City saw off two of Wapping's players with yellow cards (we won’t mention Ellie Brine’s green card in the first half for the same thing). City knew they were on the comeback and channeled their positivity while Wapping began to panic. Distasteful chat from the opposition coach spurred city on to prove they deserved the win, and fab play upfront from Olivia Williams won city a short corner. A strike from Ellie Brine saw the ball into the corner of the goal and City had equalised 2-2. City spirits were even higher and they continued battling for the win.  
 
Further fantastic runs from Emily Francis and Milly Brown on the wings created more opportunities for city and finally with a slick ball through to Krystal Bishop, she ran the by line and took a shot from a tight angle that only Krystal could score from and smashed the ball past the keeper into the corner.  
 
With only 5 minutes left, Wapping pressed hard but city worked even harder. Desperate to find something, the opposition swapped to a kicking back, however City still managed to keep the attackers away until the final whistle, end result 3-2. Great determination until the very end and fantastic teamwork from all. POM Ellie Brine. 

WOMENS 1ST XI - 10/11/2018 VS BROXBOURNE 1 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 10/11/2018 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 10/11/2018 
HEADLINE: 70 minutes of fight from City 1's 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: Taverham HC 
RESULT: Broxbourne 2-0 Norwich City  
 
REPORT: 
Norwich City Womens 1's gave a fighting performance at home against away team Broxbourne. The first half brought some fast paced movement from City defence through to the forward line up who narrowly missed some early chances. Winning a short-corner, Broxbourne secured there first goal midway through the first half. Spurred on by this, City continued fighting with some powerful balls into the attacking D delivered by Irene Ramirez Martinez with Jocasta Staines and Harriet Johnson driving forward from the midfield. After a fiery half time talk, Irene R-M broke through the Broxbourne defence to have a shot on goal saved by the keeper! With on goal chances for Olivia Williams, Krystal Bishop, Emily Francis, Sophie Mullan and Ellie Brine who held the forward line, Broxbourne defence remained strong. Winning a second short corner, Broxbourne secured a 2-0 lead in the second half despite some excellent defending from City's centre back Fong Chung and right half Harriet Johnson. Unlucky to not be able to put away further chances, Broxbourne secured a 2-0 win over City - a tight game with both teams fighting until the 70th minute! 

WOMENS 1ST XI - 03/11/2018 VS CAMBRIDGE CITY 2 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 03/11/2018 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 03/11/2018 
HEADLINE: Cambridge vs Norwich  
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: 
RESULT: 
 
REPORT:  
The result does not reflect the match, we fought and worked hard, we also had lovely passing and combinations at some points.  
 

WOMENS 1ST XI - 13/10/2018 VS SEVENOAKS 2 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 13/10/2018 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 13/10/2018 
HEADLINE: Home Win - Keep Them Coming! 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: NORWICH, TAVERHAM 
RESULT: CITY 1, SEVENOAKS 0 
 
REPORT: 
 
On a sunny autumn day, NC welcomed Sevenoaks to TRF.  The 1st half was evenly matched with both teams winning but not converting short corners and Mikayla Glover in the City goal was called into action to make some crucial saves.  
 
Just before half time, a great flowing move was started by Harriet Johnson who took a quick sideline hit to find Angela Hindle at centre midfield, who then found Jocasta Staines on the left who then fed a quick ball to Krystal Bishop in the D, who coolly turned her marker and reverse swept to nutmeg the on-rushing keeper to make the scoreline 1-0 to NC.  
 
NC started the second half at high intensity to build on a slim lead. There were some great passing and phases of play between Sophie Mullan, Ellie Brine and Olivia Williams on the left and Rachael Phillips, Abbie Ingham and Emily Francis on the right. With the hard working Rachel Mayne switching the ball at centre midfield. NC found themselves camped in the opposition’s 23m, but were unable to convert the numerous chances created with balls flashing across infront of goal needing a touch.  
 
However, NC were at times caught on the break when the ball found a skilful opposition player who ran the length of the pitch and the defensive unit of Fong Chung, Suzy Mitchell, Sally Rose and Ellie Pitcher were called into action.  
 
It became nervy towards the end of the game as Sevenoaks were awarded 5 consecutive short corners because NC couldn’t clear their lines cleanly, which ended when Ellie Pitcher cleared a shoulder high looping ball off the goal line.  
 
NC held on for a well deserved 1-0 win. 
 
POTM went to Fong Chung for her many interceptions and work rate. 

WOMENS 1ST XI - 29/09/2018 VS WEST HERTS 1 (A) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 29/09/2018 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 29/09/2018 
HEADLINE: Norwich City 1s continue to make their mark in the East Premier Division with a point away at West Herts 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: NEW PLAYING FIELD, WATFORD 
RESULT: WEST HERTS 2, NORWICH CITY 2 
 
REPORT: 
 
After a great start last weekend for Norwich City Womens 1st XI in their campaign as one of the newly promoted teams into the dizzy heights of the East Premier Division, this week it was a long away trip to Watford to play against West Herts.  
 
The game started with the usual rapid pace, both teams clearly wanting to set their mark early on the game, with lots of play in and around the middle of the pitch and a good midfield competition started to unfold. West Herts looked the stronger initially, a few flare players in their midfield causing a few problems for the City midfield, seeing a number of attacking opportunities causing the travelling defenders a few early challenges. The rearranged defence this week all working well together and found themselves adapting very quickly to ensure any attempts on goal were kept to a minimum. 
 
It was West Herts who opened the scoring with them taking advantage of a good break through from midfield and finding an unmarked player in the circle to guide the ball into the back of the goal. A goal that didn’t seem to phase the Norwich City side, continuing to push from the restart and starting to work the ball around the back to create a number of very close opportunities or last-ditch clearances. The game continued end to end, a great game for the side line crowd to watch, but it was City that eventually opened their scoring when a great run down the right saw debutant Sophia Basset work the ball along the base line to find school team mate Abbie Ingham at the far post to take a touch to control and lifted the ball over the sprawling West Herts keeper. 
 
The half time team talk focussed on the areas that needing to be tweaked and a few adjustments to the formation and tactics, the second half saw the work rate and intensity increase, both teams now clearly pushing for the winning points and the quality of the game clearly a step up from the first half. The constant rotations for City ensured the game continued at a high pace and both teams continued to give each other challenges, this time City managing to work some really good short corners but sadly great defending seeing them not quite sneak through. It was eventually West Herts who scored the next goal, City caught a little off guard and the ball eventually finding its way into the corner of the City goal with a mad last-minute scramble between the attackers and defenders. With minutes to play and after a fantastic out stretched stick save from Mikayla Glover in the City goal to keep the lead at only one goal, the City team dug deep and continued to fight to the finish. Eventually the breakthrough came, some great work by Micayla Tootill surging up the pitch from the back to earn a free-hit just outside the 23, allowing captain Jocasta Staines to step up and drive a firm and well placed ball into a packed West Herts circle for Krystal Bishop to put the much needed touch to deflect the ball into the bottom corner of the goal. 
 
Both teams working extremely hard in the heat and a point for both reflective of probably a well balanced game, City once again showing they can play to the final whistle, now 4 points from 2 games and a well earned point from home. 
Next week Norwich City welcome Bromley and Beckenham to Taverham, a team that has started well with two high scoring wins in their opening two fixtures, definitely a test for the home side this week as they continue to get themselves prepared for what is proving to be a big step up from last seasons Division 1 standard. 
 
POTM: Mikayla Tootill 
 

WOMENS 1ST XI - 22/09/2018 VS WAPPING 1 (H) 
 
TEAM: Womens 1st XI 
DATE: 22/09/2018 
FIXTURE: Womens 1st XI VS 22/09/2018 
HEADLINE: City get off to a flying start... 
LEAGUE: EAST PREMIER DIVISION 
VENUE: Taverham Recreational Facilities 
RESULT: W 1-0 
 
REPORT: 
It was the first game of the season and the first game in Prem after promotion last season – the womens 1s had every right to be nervous, but it was mainly excitement you could sense before the game. Hearing that Wapping had aspirations for promotion this year, the womens 1s knew they had to go out all guns blazing from the start of the game and that they did.  
 
With many forays into the Wapping 23 in the first 10 minutes, city won an early short corner after great work from Olivia Williams. The ball almost found the goal after Felicity Williams slid the ball towards the back post, but Wapping kept the ball from hitting the back board.  
 
After that, it was a battle in the middle of the pitch with little happening at either end with the first half finishing 0-0. The second half was a different story, City started well with some great attacking play. Following fantastic linking from Harriet Johnson, Ellie Brine and Emily Francis down the right of the pitch, Ellie Brine broke into the D and her paced ball passed narrowly close to the post. Shortly after this, Ellie Brine won another short corner for City which unfortunately wasn’t converted. Wapping penetrated our 25 a few times with slick passing but Mikayla-Mae Glover - excellent in goal for Norwich - kept the shots at bay ably supported by Suzi Mitchell and Fong Chung at the back.  
 
It was around 10 minutes before the final whistle that City got their hard fought for break when Harriet Johnson found Emily Francis unmarked at the top of the D, who turned and slid the ball reverse stick underneath the onrushing keeper to make the score 1-0. City kept there calm from then on to ensure they maintained their lead and took the maximum 3 points from their opening game of their season!  
 
With fantastic team spirit evident before, during and after the game, the womens 1s are excited to see where the season takes them.  
 
POTM – Emily Francis