2008-2009 Season

Men’s

Division 2NE

17/01/09

 

Sudbury 7 Norwich Union 2

A good first half with honours even at the break but tiredness and too many lapses in concentration in the second half saw the game get away from us. Highlights were the new shirts, which looked good, and a guest appearance from Duncan Evans as sweeper. City next week and a chance to redeem ourselves. Goals in the first half by Snelling and Green.

Division 4NE

17/01/09

 

Lowestoft Railway 2 Norwich Union III 0

After an extended winter break, Dragons 3XI returned to league action, with an ounce of keenness to match each pound gained over the Christmas period.

Team Captain and motivational lynch-pin Juande Dures, gathered the team into a huddle before proceedings to brief his platoon. With an average age of 39 and Juande celebrating his 39th birthday, he was keen to emphasise the importance of exepereince in a fixture such as this. As the game unfolded however, it seemed that the cocktail of keenness and experience was not a match for Railways youth, fitness and skill.

A return to club hockey for transfer window signing Andrew Podd (+6) was welcomed by the traveling supporters. Podd’s last known sighting was against Pelicans, scoring two, with a broken arm (in two places). The visitors were hoping that the in form striker would put his body on the line in a similar fashion.

The game started quickly, much to the taste of the home team. Their speed of passing and running was however of little effect in the opening passages of play as sweeper Mike Banham (giving away 20 years to the teams average age) was able to deal with all that came his way. A lucky break from the headless Lowestoft forwards did eventually sneak past an unlucky returning keeper Robbie Whiting (+16). The remainder of the half petered out, with Dragons making few chances and target man Andrew Cross making even fewer runs!

An inspirational half-time chat from Juande Dures, left the team feeling more confused than confident as they entered the second period – keeping his cool, Dures subjected the team to the infamous “hairdryer treatment”, the only obvious similarity being a propensity to blow lots of hot air! A cunning shuffle of the pack from the renowned tinkerman, moving George Walker (+12, that’s right, PLUS TWELVE) into central midfield did not however seem to have the desired effect, as the second half began as the first had started, with a youthful Railway team, hogging the attacking spoils.

As the second period unfolded though, Dures prophecy that experience can triumph over youth came true, as the Dragon’s began to roar. An ever increasing confidence began to spread through the team like an infection (ask Mr Davis if you’re unsure how to catch one). The Dragon’s were able to hold onto the ball for longer periods, giving their defence (combined age 188, average age 47) a much needed break, after some sterling work. Chris Harrison (+13) and Rich Davis (+3 – despite being told he looks much younger, apparently!) teamed up well down the left flank, as the Dragon’s were able to string some nice passes together and looked as likely as their opponents to score next. However, as the experienced Dragon’s began to run out of puff and the flame in their breath dipped to Gas Mark 1, the Railway locomotive roared to it’s destination as they were able to extend their lead, with another lucky goal 10 minutes from time.

All was not lost though, as the Dragon’s were awarded a short corner late in the day. It seemed all game that this might be their most likely avenue of success, but unfortunately it was to be a cul-de-sac as some exquisitely worked short corner routines, with more dummies than a department store window, failed to break the Railway defence.

As the final whistle blew, the visiting fans cheered their team off the pitch, with the help of some Magpie players, safe in the knowledge their boys had tried their best. Much noise was heard to come from the Dragon’s changing room after the game and it seems that if points were awarded for team spirit and banter Juande’s men would surely sit atop Division 4NE. Until that happens however, it is back to the drawing board for Dures, who is keen to bring in some foreign signings in the remaining few days of the transfer window. “I’ve had my eye on a few Portugese” Dures said, “But until that comes about, I’ll have to make do with Dad’s Army!” The visit of league leaders North Walsham to Loddon will not help the Dragon’s bid for survival much, but Dures remains optimistic.

 

 

Women’s

 

2007-2008 Season

Men’s

Division 5NE

19/4/08

 

 

Norwich Union IV 3 Sudbury III 4

Prior to their last match of the season Alan Quinton was presented with the Norwich Union 4 Player of the season award.

Union played the first half against a 10 man opposition as two of their opponents had been delayed.Union started well creating good chances but were denied by an inspired performance by the Sudbury keeper.Despite having a player less Sudbury were finding a lot of space and time in the middle of the pitch which was giving the Union defenders problems.Just before half-time Union took the lead with a goal from Adrian Kemp.

The second half saw Sudbury up to full strength and they scored 2 goals to take a 2-1 lead but Union replied with a short corner strike from Mike Banham to get back on level terms.Sudbury opened a two goal lead with deflected strikes from short corners but Union replied immediately with an excellent goal by Chris Harrison.The Sudbury keeper continued to pull off great saves to ensure his team ran out winners.

Division 5NE

12/4/08

 

 

Norfolk Nomads 3 Norwich Union IV 3

Norwich Union made a poor start to this match failing to do the basics and conceding possesion to Nomads with poor passing and combined with a lack of marking this led to Nomads taking the lead with a goal from Ben Mann.Union then produced an excellent move down the right which ended with a cross to Patrick Vaneerten who skillfully took the ball round the keeper and slotted in at the far post.Union were not on level terms for long as they were still giving their opponents too much space and time and a Ben Mann shot took a deflection which wrongfooted the Union keeper to give Nomads a 2-1 half-time lead.

At half-time Union talked about the importance of passing more accurately which they put into practise early in the second half with some good attacking plays one of which resulted in an equaliser by Paul Kiwanuka.The match was becoming more open with play moving swiftly from end to end.Nomads retook the lead when Union failed to clear a short corner and Andrew Dellbridge finished from close range.Union were determined not to be beaten and showed great commitment and a short corner strike from Mike Banham brought them level at 3-3.Though there were 10 minutes left neither side could find a winner and the draw was a fair result in a match played in an excellent spirit.A good solid display by Glenn Tobias at left back was one of the individual Union highlights of the match.

The club is determined to carry on running the 4 mens and 4 ladies teams it currently puts out each week and to enable this to occur the two clubs are to merge together.A great deal of support is also being received in the club’s cause from Thorpe St Andrew Town Council who are putting a bid together to manage the sports facilities at Pinebanks which we are very appreciative of and also the support we are receiving from Broadland District Council. .

Division 5NE

5/4/08

 

 

Norwich Union IV 3 Dereham IV 5

Union facing the division runners up who had allready ensured promotion struggled in the early stages of the match to cope with the pace and skill of the younger Dereham players.Dereham made the most of this period of play to go 2-0 ahead.

Union then came to life and started moving the ball quickly and using their width to pull Dereham defenders out of position to create spaces in the D and this resulted in a goal being pulled back through Patrick Vaneerten.Dereham quickly regained their two goal lead and went into half-time 3-1 ahead.

At the break Union were encouraged by the play that had led to their goal and confident that if this could be replicated they could get back into the match.

The second half saw Union dominating and taking the game to Dereham with great link play between the forwards and midfield with good performances by Kemp,Key and Harrison and Alan Quinton continuing his rich goalscoring run with 2 goals to bring the scores level.The Dereham keeper made a few important saves and attacking wise Dereham were being kept to sporadic breaks but Morley in the Union goal pulled off a great save high to his right.Against the run of play Dereham took the lead from a short corner which was switched back to the inserter to score.Union tried to equalise but on the final whistle Dereham were awarded a short corner which they converted to give them a slightly flattering two goal advantage.

Division 5NE

29/3/08

 

 

Norwich City IV 2 Norwich Union IV 2

Two local teams battled out a 2-2 draw in an evenly constested and high tempo game. Union started well with good passing and keeping good possesion, this quickly produced to an early chance but with no-one was able to meet a pass across the D from Andrew Cross. 10 minutes on and Union still kept the pressure on, resulting in the ball being picked out in the D by Will Kirby who turned and pushed hard towards goal with Andrew Cross knocking it across the line to make sure. With the early lead Unions dominace dropped and City got in their stride, it was their turn for pressure and soon equalised. A second goal for City then came quickly after when Union failed to clear a short corner. A few minutes before half time and Union then won a short corner themselves with Patrick Vaneerton cooly finishing by stopping and striking from the top of the D.

 

2-2 at half time at thats how it stayed, the second half was 50:50 with end to end hockey and both teams’ defence and goalkeepers doing superbly to prevent chances going in. Union had the chance to steal the game when a saved effort from City’s keeper was followed up by a Chris Harrison shot but only to be accidentely deflected wide. A fair result in the end and well done to the team, 100% work rate and commitment really showed.

Division 5NE

15/3/08

 

 

Norwich Union IV 1 Bury St.Edmunds III 4

For the first twenty minutes of this match Union found themselves struggling to cope with the pressure that Bury were exerting but valiant defending and some saves by Morley ensured Bury couldn’t turn this ascendency into goals.

Union against the run of play cut through the centre of Bury’s defence with some sharp 1-2’s which enabled Kirby to score from close range.Bury came back with an equaliser capitalising on a Union mistake so the sides were level at half-time.

The second half saw the match flowing from end to end with Bury having a few open field chances but not troubling the Union keeper.Union were awarded several short corners and Bury were indebted to their keeper for keeping them level when despite having to change direction he pulled off a great save from a Banham shot.

A draw though was a fair reward for both teams in an even match.

Division 4NE

8/3/08

 

 

Pelicans III 0 Norwich Union III 7

A minibus trip to Great Yarmouth saw us arrive in Kings Lyn with me quite confused. We turned up with a bare 11 and that quite frankly felt like two people too many after the start of the game. We Played exceptionally well and by contrast they played exceptionally badly. We passed the ball like a team and even let the ball go backwards and around the back on occasion. The Outcome was inevitable with a 4-0 score line at half time and a 7-0 at the finish. The best thing about the game was getting a pair of jugs, both in the bar(courtesy of Will and Andy) and in the bus (courtesy of Fiesta and Knave). P.S. Adam, they are in your bag!

Division 5NE

8/3/08

 

 

Crane II 1 Norwich Union IV 4

Union made a strong start to this match and raced into an early 2 goal lead with a goal from a short corner and another from open play by Alan Quinton.Late in the first half Union were reduced to 10 men when a ball deflected off a Union stick and flew up and hit a team-mate on the forehead who had to leave the pitch with a large swelling.This unsettled the Union team and a spell of poor marking resulted in Cranes pulling a goal back before half-time.

The second half found Union facing waves of Cranes pressure which they just managed to contend with but were struggling to get the ball away.A Cranes player then suffered a nasty nose injury which halted the match while treatment was administered.This interuption to the match allowed Union to regroup and compose themselves.When the match was resumed Union started to be able to find their forward Bryan Quinton when the ball was played out of defence and attacks started to be built.Two more goals were scored by Alan Quinton to bring his tally for the game to 4 after scoring a hat-trick in the previous weeks match.The Union team worked hard to win this match not allowing Cranes to capitalise on the player advantage they had for a large proportion of the match and still scoring 2 goals while one player light.

Division 5NE

1/3/08

 

 

Norwich Union IV 4 Harleston Magpies VI 5

Union made a slow start to the match which Harleston took advantage of capitalising on poor marking which would be a feature of Union’s game to take the lead.Union equalised with Paul Kiwanuka scoring from close range at a short corner.Harleston quckly retook the lead but a decisive deflection from another short corner by Alan Quinton took the two teams into half-time level at 2-2.

Union played poorly for a large part of the second half giving their opponents too much space and giving the ball away too easily.Harleston capitalised on this to score 3 goals to run away into a 5-2 lead.

Refusing to let their heads drop Union finally started to play the hockey they were capable of with fast stick to stick passing opening up the Harleston defence and two goals from Alan Quinton gave them hope of getting something out of the match.The recovery however had been started too late and the final whistle arrived before Union could get an equaliser.

Division 5NE

23/2/08

 

 

North Walsham II 1 Norwich Union IV 1

Union travelled to play the third placed team with a bare eleven with a new player Deepak Malik playing for the first time in 12 years.A great display in the first half by the defence and some good saves by Union goalkeeper Morley from North Walsham short corners prevented Walsham turning their pressure into goals.In the Union midfield Patrick Vaneerten was using all his skill to create space and time and get the Union forwards on the offensive.Half-time came with the score goalless.

In the second half Walsham continued to press forward and have short corners but failed to score even missing an open goal.Union made Walsham pay for their wastefullness in front of goal when a Banham pass was collected by Paul Kiwanuka who turned the last defender and ran on and rounded the keeper before tapping in from close range.

Walsham continued to press and the Union defence held firm even when reduced to 10 men when the Union captain was sin binned for a poor tackle.Walsham finally equalised from a short corner so late in the match there was not even time to restart before the final whistle was blown.Union were disappointed not to have held out but Walsham deserved something from the match for all their pressure and short corners.

Union though can be very proud of their team performance which if repeated will bring many positive results before the season ends.

Division 5NE

16/2/08

 

 

Norwich Union IV 0 Thetford Town 3

Union faced the league leaders who had only lost 1 match all season.Realising the toughness of the match Union hoped to prevent Thetford from scoring for as long as possible.Unfortunately the plan failed and Thetford took an early lead.The Union defence and midfield worked hard for the rest of the half marking their opponents tightly and saves by Millar in goal prevented Thetford adding to their lead.

Union had one opportunity in the first half when a Mike Banham strike from a short corner was saved.

A battling display by Union restricted Thetford to two more goals in the second half and Union had a chance late on with a break to score a consolation goal but the Thetford saved to maintain the clean sheet.

This was an encouraging performance by Union against strong opposition in a match played in an excellent spirit by both teams.

Division 5NE

9/2/08

 

 

Bury St. Edmunds IV 1 Norwich Union IV 4

Union travelled with 10 players to play the team just below them in the league.Thanks to great commitment and effort from every player to the team cause an excellent victory was achieved.

Union made a good start and were playing the ball round with good passing and movement.Union took the lead when a Mike Banham strike from a short corner took a deflection off a defender’s foot and looped up and over the stationary goalkeeper on the line and into the goal.The lead was doubled with an individual goal by Richard Banham using his pace and skill to bamboozle the Bury defence.

The Union defence with Bryan Quinton playing his first match for 3 seasons using all his experience and know how to allow his opponent no opportunities and complemented by great marking by Glenn Tobias and David Pentin prevented Bury from having a shot on target in the first half.

Bury came out in the 2nd half determined to get back into the match but an excellent save early in the half from Kelvin Morley in the Union goal held them initially at bay.The match started to get fractious as both sides gave their all and the umpires tried to calm down heated exchanges.Bury finally pulled a goal back but solid play in midfield by Andy Key,Alan Quinton and Ray Hansell prevented Bury making any furthur impression.Union stretched their lead back to 2 goals when Mike Banham made a long accurate pass out of defence to his son Richard which left the Bury defence trailing and Richard showed great composure to take the ball on and slot it past the keeper.A fourth goal was added when from a long corner Chris Harrison received the ball at the near post and turned and flicked the ball home.

Division 5NE

19/1/08

 

 

Harleston Magpies V 1 Norwich Union IV 3

Union started the second half of the league season with a good win against a higher placed side in their division.

A positive start to the match was made by Union who took an early lead when Azeem pressurised a Harleston defender into making a poor pass.This was intercepted at the top of the D by Chris Harrison who showed good composure to score his first goal of the season.Union continued to be the dominant force in the match and doubled their lead when Mike Banham scored with a low driven shot into the corner fronm a short.

Harleston before half-time pulled a goal back.The half-time team talk called for more of the same.In the second half Union showed a great display of man-marking and a solid defensive unit prevented Harleston from having any opportunities to trouble the Union keeper.In the closing stages of the half Union made the three points safe when a switch move at a short corner gave Andrew Hipper the time to place his shot to score.

Division 4NE

19/1/08

 

 

Gorleston 3 Norwich Union III 1

An early blitz from Gorleston saw them take a 3-0 lead within the first 15 minutes. We were without 3 of the normal defence, plus we had beaten them in the last 3 games so they were up for revenge! Game settled down & despite Gorleston pressing they couldn’t add to their lead. 2nd half was more even, Union had 2/3 good chances to score before Dan Newman & Will combined will for Will to keep his scoring run going.

Division 3NE

19/1/08

 

 

Norwich Union II 3 Harleston Magpies IV 5

After a disasterous first 25 minutes which saw Norwich Union 3-0 down the players dug deep to draw magpies back in to a fight with two succesful short corners strikes from Andy Kelsall and Rob Wagstaff. Going into the break on the ascendance union came out in the second half firing on all cylinders and after a great solo effort from Jason Wolfe brought the game back to level pegging union looked like at least rescuing a point. However, the mamouth effort to bring the game level had taken a lot out of union and shortly after the equaliser the union defence was caught napping allowing magpies to get their 4th and then a few minues before the end magpies finished off the game with a 5th goal to end the game 5-3..

Division 1

12/1/08

 

 

Witham 1 Norwich Union 1

In light of the recent outbreak of turkey-related bloat, it was with some trepidation that Union set out for the Essex badlands. Witham’s new pitch had been devoid of facilities on the last visit forcing some (Spender especially) to play in a state of abdominal discomfort.Union have been struggling recently and have slipped perilously into a relegation spot, with the gaping abyss of four-down preying on their minds. Actually, we’ve been a bit rubbish and with difficulties putting out a full-strength team exacerbating matters the break in play may have come at a good time. After lots of discussion with players the skipper had sent out a rallying cry and mustered 12 at training, 14 for the away match.Spirits in the minibus were high and we set off optimistically. The journey was mostly uneventful and arrival was in good time. Witham had managed to get busy with the building work to the extent that where no changing facilities had existed there were now 12 rooms, each with en-suite amenities. Of course 14 didn’t fit too well but there are sacrifices to such an embarrassment of riches.The captain set out his ideas for the improvement of results and proceeded to make a number of positional changes, most notably bringing Richard Moulson’s legendary axing into the centre and pushing Gareth into the forward line. After some mighty striking on the Wednesday, Tom Bell was moved to right midfield to hopefully recreate the angle which had suited him so well. Overall the plan was to push further up the field from the back and gain some previously-lacking positional advantage.Witham appeared to have read the script – they not only dealt with our play confidently but they pushed forward in just the manner we were hoping to emulate. Solid defending help keep them out but still John was forced to make a number of fine saves and trust in the metalwork. The skipper had fortunately run and hidden at left midfield to allow the ‘real’ defenders to do their bit. The first 15 minutes was mainly one-way with only a few breaks down the wings which failed to trouble the opposition.It took a long time but eventually Union started to recover from their malaise. The brussel sprouts were burnt away in the intensity of the encounter and the woeful passing stepped up towards almost mediocre. The availability of three keen subs enabled us to keep battling when under pressure and a few more breaks started to go the other way. It was 0-0 at half-time and Union knew that they had survived a tough half.Team talk and jelly-babies. A call to arms for the white-clad faithful. Union returned to the fray reinvigorated and started to look more dangerous. At the same time Witham continued with more of the same – quicker to the ball and more adept with the passing they crashed in waves upon the Union defence but failed to break through. This couldn’t last forever and eventually they managed to beat both the defence and even John in goal. The pre-Christmas side might have crumbled, but the new version did not. Despite a Witham foul and a Union foot the ball was lashed into the ‘d’ by Snelling, now playing centre midfield. Alex Browne found the keeper diving at his feet and calmly walked the ball around him before rolling it into the empty goal. Union were euphoric and pushed forward hungrily. Witham continued to fight but they had missed their chance to kill the game off earlier. The rest of the match was a stalemate.Union’s away point took them to 11 in the league after 11 matches. More points than this will be needed to survive the second half. That said, having failed to take any points of Witham in a number of recent encounters this was definitely a point won. Further improvements in passing particularly are needed but the more optimistic feel of the side will help carry some difficult encounters.

 

Man of the match award went to John Livings. The umpires agreed!

 

Friendly

12/1/08

 

 

Norwich City V 5 Norwich Union IV 2

With an unfamiliar side Union went 2-0 down despite starting the match well.A goal was pulled back with the last hit of the first half when Banham’s shot from a short arrowed inside the post.

Union started the second half well with good play by Glen Richardson in centre midfield and Simon Garner playing well up front as he played his first match for a season and a half.An equaliser was scored by Azeem who had not played for Union for more than a season.Union continued to create chances and the play of the forwards and midfield were encouraging.

City scored three goals quickly late in the match which gave them the win by a more flattering scoreline than they deserved.

Division 5NE

8/12/07

 

 

Dereham IV 8 Norwich Union IV 1

Union were only able to field 10 players for this match due to withdrawalls and players being called up to make up higher teams.In poor conditions Union worked hard to make sure their opponents didn’t take advantage of their extra man.Dereham took the lead but Union immediately bounced back and equalised from a Banham strike at a short corner.Thanks to some excellent saves by Morley in the Union goal and a great team effort the scores were level at half-time.However before the break Union suffered a blow when a Dereham pass hit a Union foot and deflected up at close range into Mike Banham’s shoulder which would affect the team in the second half.

Dereham came out in the second half and scored 2 quick goals,as the half went on they increased their dominance as Mike Banham’s arm began to make him struggle and the defence started to find it difficult to cope with the mounting attacks.Despite more good goalkeeping by Morely Dereham continued to add goals.

The final score did not reflect the commited performance by the team in adverse weather and all who played should be proud of their achievements.

Division 5NE

1/12/07

 

 

Norwich Union IV 3 Norwich City IV 2

Union made a slow start to this match and City took the initiative and took advantage with an early goal scored by Cushion with a deflection over the Union keeper from a short corner.

This fired Union into action and they made an immediate response equalising through a Mike Banham strike from a short corner.Union continued to attack their opponents and took the lead when Paul Kiwanuka scored his first goal for the club deflecting a cross from the wing beyond the keeper.This was the score at half-time and Union made one change at the interval but went out to carry on as they had left off.

Early in the second half Union increased their lead when Alan Quinton finished off a smooth passing move with a clinical finish from the top of the D.The match was flowing from end to end and few chances were being created.City pulled a goal back when Union’s defence were slow to react when an initial City shot was saved by the Union keeper but the rebound was turned in from close range.Union managed to see the match out without any further anxious moments to move within 1 point of City and to remain above 3 teams in the division.

It was encouraging to see the excellent reaction by the team to falling a goal behind so early in the match.

Division 5NE

24/11/07

 

 

Bury III 4 Norwich Union IV 1

Union faced opponents who had been relegated from the division above in the previous season.Bury started the match quickest and Union were immediately under pressure and initially managed to contain their hosts.The barrage of attacks finally became overwhelming and Bury scored 2 goals in quick succession.

This adversity was to show Union’s fighting qualities as they then started to take the game to their opponents and accurate passes between the defenders saw the forwards start to get into space and attack the D.A strong pressing action by the forwards started to put the Bury defenders underpressure and force them into errrors.A quick Bury break against the run of play increased their lead to 3-0 at the interval.

The half-time team talk stressed the need to carry on the good play that had seen the half end with and to attempt to win the second half.

Bury increased their lead in the second half when a quickly taken free-hit from the wrong place allowed the forward to have time and space to put his shot in the corner.Union were not down heartened and continued to attack and were rewarded when a strong run down the wing by Vaneerten saw him put a hard cross into the D which Tom Kiwanuka controlled well before shooting past the keeper.A good marking role was played by Andy key in the second half.

No furthur score came despite Union pressing but this was a good performance by the team which bodes well for future games.

Division 1

17/11/07

 

 

Vauxhall 1 Norwich Union 1

It’s a long way to Luton…

 

Union travelled away to sunny Bedfordshire this weekend to face Vauxhall Hockey Club. Initially looking like being amongst the divisional whipping boys, Vauxhall have shown an improvement in form capped off by an 8-2 stuffing of Cambridge Uni. It seemed that they were another side good at scoring and just as good at letting them in.

 

Union arrived rather early having failed to find a supermarket near the ground to stock up on post-match essentials. Four out of the pool of defenders were missing but the desperate nature of events had managed to coerce the legendary ‘Foxy’ from his marathon-running exploits. Even so this left the skipper at centre back and the adaptable Ash Green moving in to the right-hand side. Training this week had made a point about the concept of warming up and with a good first-team turnout for once it seemed to have hit home. Despite hindrance from a seemingly unending (very late starting) match on before us, union ran through a number of drills and hit the pitch to go straight into a five-a-side game to up the intensity. With the popular three-man-weave and some defensive shadowing practise thrown in for good measure, we met the whistle ready to go.

 

It was a good start for union, much improved from recent sloth-like affairs and the ball was soon moving quickly around the pitch. Vauxhall adopted a style for which Asian-dominated sides are renowned with some tricky running off the ball and passes carefully placed to exploit the spaces. After ten minutes of deadlock a defensive mistake by the captain was seized on and well finished with John trying in vain to cover the whole goal at once. Union fought on but were under the cosh a bit for a while longer. They slowly began to regain confidence and hit home via Alex who capitalised on a recovered short corner fumble to thunder home. Other short corners came and went, mainly due to the undulating terrain at the top of the clubhouse end. With the game in a state of parity, both sides struggled hard for dominance. When Simmo was axed in the middle of the park, union gained a one-man advantage and things looked rosy. This became even more pronounced after a fracas involving team firebrand Williams resulted in another yellow card for Vauxhall and a death threat for both Hywel and the umpire. An enquiry of a maternal nature may have inflamed things somewhat. For a brief moment the two sides looked to be facing off like the armies of Troy and Greece but eventually the game was restarted without a single maiming. With two extra players, union looked to be very much on top of events. Vauxhall retreated to defence, their main outlet being speculative aerial balls hurled by their trebuchet-inspired rearguard. These were well dealt with by the union defence. Meanwhile union were able to attack in numbers. Foxy pushed up the middle of the pitch and the ball started to reach the forwards in good positions. Union managed to get some shots away, although these were well dealt with. Half time, two extra players and the scored level. It couldn’t be much better!

 

Union returned from the break to face the nine. They surged forward. Tom even had a shot. Unfortunately there was still no chink further chink in the Vauxhall armour. A nine became ten the game became more frantic and once it was back to 11-a-side Vauxhall pushed forwards. Union started to get panicked and make mistakes. Vauxhall produced their bucket of skill and became harder to contain. In the end, neither side could put the game away and perhaps neither deserved to take full points. Vauxhall had the better of the final moments but Union could still have snatched it. 1-1 was a fair result.

 

After a reminder in the shower of possible death had been and gone, Union partook of the jolly nice teas in a boardroom environment and then took their leave. The return fixture could well be one to watch. Man of the match award went to John Livings in goal. Some very good saves, in particular against a dangerous short-corner dragflicker kept the match open to the end. Special commitment notice goes to Foxy who ‘wasn’t amused’ mid-week but had to admit to having had quite a bit of fun. My apologies to Simmo – he was last week’s uncredited man of the match.

 

Division 5NE

17/11/07

 

 

Norwich Union IV 5 Cranes II 0

This was a vital match for Union against one of the two teams below them in the division.In the team talk before the game it was stressed to not allow the fact the opposition only had 10 players to allow complacency to enter Union’s play.

Union made the perfect start after the team talk taking an early lead through an Alan Quinton goal.The lead was increased after Mike Banham fired home a short corner between goalkeeper and defender.Further chances were created but Union couldn’t make their superiority count and before half-time tiredness resulted in some poor marking which allowed Cranes to create pressure on the Union defence.

At half-time a few changes were made by Union to freshen things up and try to convert the pressure into goals.The lead was increased in the second half through a goal by Patrick Vaneerten and Mike Banham converted another short corner to make the score 4-0.A fifth goal was added to the tally when Tom Kiwanuka scored his first goal for the club in only his third appearance with a close range finish at the back post.Though more chances were created Union could not increase their lead.Cranes didn’t let the scoreline stop them from competing all match with their young forwards working hard and though he had little to do Steve Manning in the Union goal when called on ensured that Union would keep their first clean sheet of the season.

This was a good performance by Union with all 14 players in the squad contributing to the victory.

Division 5NE

10/11/07

 

 

Harleston Magpies VI 3 Norwich Union IV 1

Due to late withdrawals Union only had a bare 11 players with outfield player Andy Key having to don the goalkeepers equipment.Union didn’t let this adversity affect their early play starting the stronger and this pressure was converted into a lead when Ray Hansell scored his first goal for many years for Union coming into the D from right back and hitting a crisp first time shot that arrowed into the corner of the goal.Union nearly doubled their lead when a Banham shot from a short corner was stopped by a defender on the line.

Ollie Ireland in centre midfield was allowing the Harleston playmaker no time and space.Harleston equalised from a controversially awarded short corner with a hard shot that could not be stopped.Union continued to press and create chances but the score remained level at half-time.

Early in the second half Harleston increased their lead from another short corner but Union bounced back to dominate play.The Harleston keeper continued to prevent Union from getting back on level terms and decisions went against Union inside the Harleston D that may have turned the match.

Harleston made the game safe when a Union pass was intercepted on half-way and a quick break punished the mistake with a killer goal.Union fought to the end but could not get a goal back.

This was a great team performance which if repeated in weeks to come will see Union return to winning ways.Special mention to Paul and Tom Kiwanuka in their second game for the teamwho slotted into the team well and showed great improvement.

Division 5NE

3/11/07

 

 

Norwich Union IV 0 North Walsham II 2

This match started with only the Union umpire officiating as the Walsham umpire had gone to UEA and had to be collected by the Walsham substitute this situation lasted for the whole of the first half.

Union started the match the stronger and were putting the opposition under pressure.From a short corner a Banham shot was stopped on the line but against the run of play Walsham opened the scoring at a short corner from close range.Just before half-time Union were reduced to 10 men when Wagstaff was shown the yellow card.

The Walsham umpire arrived for the second half and despite being down to 10 men Union still continued to press forward.Walsham then scored a goal which had a very unsporting smell to it.A foul was given to Walsham just inside their half but when the Union captain returned the ball from where it had come to rest over their defensive backline Walsham took the free hit without allowing the Union captain to return to marking the centre forward who took advantage to score.

Union continued to try to find a way back into the match but couldn’t break the Walsham defensive line down.Special mention to Glenn Tobias who had a solid match in defence and Ray Hansell playing out of position in midfield.

Division 1

27/10/07

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Crostyx 8

With two wins under their belts, union arrived at ‘fortress’ Pinebanks in a solid mid-table position. Their opposition, Crostyx, were one of two teams with a 100% record but their wins had not been against the league’s stronger sides and there was hope that they could be knocked off their perch. Crostyx arrived very early, maybe 90 minutes before the game. “They’re keen” was the comment from many. The captain suggested that maybe they just got their journey time wrong and set about trying to assuage any fears before we started. Unfortunately there proved to be rather a lot to fear as a slightly depleted union midfield came up against a well-oiled Crostyx machine and the defence were outfoxed by some very good attacking skills.

 

1, 2, 3… union were seriously in trouble almost from the whistle. Head went down and the first 25 minutes were purgatory. Perhaps things only got better when Crostyx got complacent? Whatever the reason, the half-time score was a cringe-making 7-0.

 

Building on a few attacking successes of the later stages, union regrouped somewhat and dug in their heels. Confidence grew and teeth were gritted. Short corners were won by some good marauding, especially along the right flank but were not despatched as the recently dangerous shooting was fluffed and failed to trouble a solid keeper. Crostyx won the second half by a goal to leave the final total 8-0. Five excellent goals by striker Gareth Ingram were the highlight of a spectator-friendly performance and underlined where union desperately need to improve. Training anyone?

 

Man of the match award went to Robert ‘Shaggy’ Wagstaff, who was a tower of strength at right back. Back to the drawing board for the rest of us.

 

Division 3NE

27/10/07

 

 

Norwich Union II 4 Ipswich & East Suffolk II 0

The 2’s were against IES 2’s who are currently proppin gup the bottom of Division 3NE. However, despite having most of the possession and territory Union made hard work of the first half going in at the break 0-0. The second half saw a revived Union 11 take the lead early in the second half and their lead was increased shortly after following a nice combination down the right hand side between Phillis and Hamilton which ended with Phillis putting the ball past the keeper from close range. Unions dominance paid as as two further goals finished the game off.

Division 4NE

27/10/07

 

 

UEA II 0 Norwich Union III 4

An amazing display by the 3rds in the first half snuffed out the opposition before they had a chance to light the tinder. Kirby made the score sheet with a deflected shot to make in 1-0 then, Kirby set up Birchy for well executed 3 yard goal for 2-0. The 3rd goal was a nicely taken short by Mcquade and the 4th was a Kirby solo effort to make it 4-0 with 5 minutes to spare in the first half. All who played deserve a big pat on the back, there buckets of skill were well and truly full. Although there were no goals in the second half the team still kept up the effort and came away with a well deserved clean sheet and confidence boost for the season. Bring on Dereham.

Division 5NE

27/10/07

 

 

Thetford Town 6 Norwich Union IV 1

Union went behind to an early strike and then were forced into a defensive rearrangement when Tobias was injured.Some excellent goalkeeping by Millar frustrated the Thetford forwards but just before half-time two more goals were scored to put Union 3-0 down.

Despite the score-line Union’s heads did not drop and they continued to battle hard in the second half.A fourth goal was conceded and then a flick was awarded against Union and in a harsh decision the offending Union player was shown the yellow card.A great save from Millar prevented the flick from being converted.Thetford increased their lead to 5 goals but this saw Union have their best spell of play in the game and saw them score with their first chance from a great shot from Vaneerten.A furthur Union player was yellow carded for dissent and Thetford added their final goal.

In the second half Ollie Ireland performed an excellent man to man marking role on the Bury midfield playmaker and Alan Quinton played a solid role at the centre of the rearranged defence.The team deserve great credit for battling on to the end despite the scoreline.

Division 1

20/10/07

 

 

Shefford & Sandy 0 Norwich Union 1

Union travelled away this weekend to the village of Sandy, nestling in Bedfordshire between Bedford and St Neots. Shefford and Sandy were yet to win a point and union were still lifted by their comfortable win of the week before. Despite this, the skipper urged and air of caution and extolled the need for some good play.

 

After shaking the minibus trip out of their legs the men from union settled into the task at hand. There was some promising play right from the start and the S&S speculative early forays were snuffed out efficiently by the ‘big men’ at the back. A skirmish for physical superiority was soon underway with the umpires failing to stamp immediately down on some ugly play. Naturally this led to Richard ‘They let this animal teach children?’ Smith squaring up to his opponent. It wasn’t all that long before the umpires decided to clamp down and also to attempt to stop the increasing backchat. Why they chose to do this when Chris ‘This guy teaches too, must be a stressful job’ Simmonds asked his captain a question is anyone’s guess but the need for some tongue-biting was clear.

 

An open game developed as union played some attractive passing hockey and S&S sought to counter through quick running and passing moves. Short corners were awarded at both ends but neither side was able to make good use of them. Meanwhile, someone’s luck was running out. A justifiable green card for Hywel ‘Animal’ Williams was followed soon after with a yellow which appeared to some a bit tough. The umpire’s assertion that Hywel knew exactly what he was doing has yet to be backed up by evidence at any point.

 

Half time and it was 0-0. This was felt to be a good position for union, whose second half performances have tended to outshine their first. Williams was returned from the sin-bin and the captain delivered what was later adjudged to be an ‘inspirational’ speech.

 

Inspiring maybe, but union were made to work very hard. Despite looking good going forward, union were still not troubling the opposition keeper. A ten minute period of pressure by S&S produced numerous short corners and at least one reasonable shout for a stroke as sticks flew in and tackles were missed in all manner of tired and ugly play. S&S were unable to produce a routine capable of piercing the union defence although John ‘Speed of a Puma’ Livings was forced into some crisp saves.

 

In the later stages, union started to gain some ascendancy as S&S looked to have blown themselves out. A short corner was won, the injection didn’t stick in the pitch or jump over a raised line and the captain put a less-than-convincing flick into the net.

 

Beer, cider, cheese, wine and rugby all followed and though South Africa deservedly triumphed in the world cup, all of Union’s men’s teams won on the day. Congratulations all round.

 

Division 4NE

20/10/07

 

 

Norwich Union III 2 Watton 1

Captain went just shy of getting everyone to group hug at the beginning of the game, but tried to instil the thought that we should care if we lost. Chris Millar again made a terrific save to keep us in the game and by the end of the first half we were 1:0 up. In the second half we played well again and deserved our second goal. In the last 10 minutes Watton scored what can only be called a consolation goal and with 2 minutes to go the NUrds took the ball to the corner and it was all over. Everyone wanted to win and good simple hockey made it possible. Next week sees us away to UEA 2nds, it was a close game last year, so will be good to get a strong side out to beat the layabout students.

Division 5NE

20/10/07

 

 

Norwich Union IV 3 Bury IV 2

Norwich Union scored within a minute of the start of the match with quick sharp passing resulting in Ady Kemp setting up Alan Quinton for a close range goal.The next 10 minutes saw Union create many chances but the Bury goalkeeper make good saves to keep his team in it.A Bury player was then injured reducing them to 10 men but this affected Union more than Bury and Bury started to find space in midfield for them to dribble forward and Union were stunned when they conceded two goals scored by Over and Longfield to be behind at half-time.

At the break changes were made and the positive 10 minutes stressed and the need to return to this level of play. Early in the second half Union equalised when Ady Kemp finished off another good move.Bury were not being allowed into the match due to an excellent man marking job by Kirby on the Bury dangerman.Any short corners awarded to Bury were being comfortably dealt with by Morley in goal and the defence.Union found a winner when Quinton scored his second of the game once again as a result of the understanding developing between him and Ady Kemp.

Union managed to see the match out to win their first league match of the season and move off the bottom of the table.

Division 5NE

6/10/07

 

 

Norfolk Nomads 2 Norwich Union IV 2

Despite playing with 10 men and having to use an outfield player as goalkeeper Union got a good result and were pressing hard for the win in the later stages of the game.

Union went behind in the first half when a cross was turned in at the back post.Refusing to be dashed Union bounced back when Nomads paused waiting for an umpires decision which didn’t come and Union reacted quickly crossing the ball from the right for Ady Kemp to turn the ball in.

In the second half Union still pressed and took the lead with a low shot by Mike Banham from a short corner.Nomads equalised quickly with a close range effort but Union ended the match the stronger looking the team more likely to get the winner.

Special mention to the hard work of the midfield of Quinton,Hipper,Richardson and Hansell the latter three all playing their first or second games of the season.

A solid display as goalkeeper by Andy Key helping out due to a shortage of keepers.

Division 3NE

29/9/07

 

 

Harleston Magpies IV 1 Norwich Union II 0

The 2nd team lost 1-0 at the weekend to Magpies 4. It was a good game and one that we should have won but a 10 second momentary lapse of concentration at the start of the second half allowed magpies to score with a shot from the top of the D through a crowded penalty area. NU pile on the pressure but just couldn’t find that final touch to put the ball in the net.

Division 4NE

29/9/07

 

 

Norwich Union III 2 Gorleston 0

A fairley even first half, if anything Gorleston perhaps had more of the pressure but neither side created much.

Key Moment : New Boy Duncan Evans made the pass of the match, firm pass out of defence which tipped the balance in our favour as it took out their main man at the knee :-)!

Good work from other new boys Dan Newman (ex Broadland) & James Clapson (ex UEA) in midfield, plus a solid 3rd team debut from Martin Lee helped secure a 1st win for new Captain Dr Draeger.

Division 5NE

29/9/07

 

 

Norwich Union IV 1 Harleston Magpies V 3

Harleston started the match the stronger and Union were forced to weather a lot of pressure but did not allow Harleston to convert this into chances.As the match developed it became more even with some good Union passing creating chances and short corners but the Harleston keeper made some good stops and the game remained goalless at half-time.

Union came out in the second half determined to carry on pressuring their opposition and this brought it’s reward when Vaneerten deflected a long corner in at the near post to give Union the lead.

For a while this unsettled Magpies but as the game reached it’s later stages the lack of a substitute saw Union begin to tire.Magpies took advantage of this when Weir was first to react to the loose ball after a save from the Union keeper and turned the ball in from close range.Magpies increased their lead from a Hayward shot low inside the post from a short corner and they completed the scoring to give them a rather flattering scoreline with a shot from Mann.

This was an encouraging performance from Union against opposition who had been relegated from the division above.If this is repeated in coming weeks the team will achieve positive results.

Friendly

22/9/07

 

 

Norwich Union IV 1 Holt 3

Union made a good start to the game playing fast passing with midfield and attack linking well and the forward partnership of Kemp and Quinton forming a good partnership.

Holt were being awarded a large number of short corners but the defence and goalkeeper were able to stand firm.Union then showed Holt how to finish a short corner when the ball was switched round the D before being crossed to Kemp in front of goal to finish from close range.

Union began to exert pressure but couldn’t create another goalscoring chance and were made to pay when against the run of play Holt broke quickly and equalised just before half-time.It had been a good first-half disply by the Union team.

The second half saw Holt score twice with well struck shots that gave the Union keeper no chance.Union had some more attacking opportunities but couldn’t find the net again.The team defended particularly well when on 2 occassions they went down to 10 men when the captain was sinbinned(Sorry Guys!).A special mention to Richard Willson who played a good game at right back .

Women’s

 

2006-2007 Season

Men’s

Norwich Union Mens Lower X1 at Harleston Tournament

7/5/07

 

Norwich Union were drawn in Pool A and began with 3 goalless draws in their first three games on grass against Bury A,Ipswich and Harleston with the defence and Robbie in goal looking comfortable.Chances were being created but the finishing touch could not be found.

Then in the teams first astro game Union beat Thetford 2-1(after a tactical change) after trailing 1-0, with the goals from a short corner strike from Trig and a close range goal from Will Kirby.This left the team needing a scoring draw or a win in our last pool game against the group leaders who had won their previous 4 games to finish runners-up in the pool.After going 1-0 down after a forwards deflection then hit Pentin’s foot and went past Robbie an equaliser was scored by Mike Banham from a short corner and a 1-1 draw was secured.

In the semi the team played Market Deeping who were from a higher level and they soon went ahead 2-0 and then the game became bad tempered and though the team pressed hard the score stayed the same at the final whistle.Despite the wet weather it was good fun and an enjoyable experience for all the players.

 

Squad:Robbie Whiting, Mike Banham,Glenn Tobias, David Pentin, Patrick VanEerten, Clay Hamilton, Will Kirby,Tom Banham,Alan Quinton,Trig,Matt Willson,Ollie Ireland.

 

Division 4NE

23/3/07

 

 

Norwich City III 0 Norwich Union III 3

Report from Norwich City Website :

 

City concluded their season in nailbiting fashion and following a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Union left the pitch thinking that they may have blown their chances of promotion. City went into the match as league leaders one point ahead of second placed Cranes and three points ahead of third placed Sudbury and a superior goal difference to Sudbury by six goals. In an even match both sides created chances but City failed to convert any of theirs, unusually failing from their many short corners whilst Union converted three of their chances. After the final whistle news filtered through that Gorleston had beaten second placed Cranes and that Sudbury”s opposition had failed to fulfil their fixture and that Sudbury were awarded a 3-0 win. This meant that City and Sudbury were promoted with both teams now having the same goal difference, however by virtue of scoring 87 goals to Sudburys 72 City III”s were promoted as league champions.

 

Division 5NE

23/3/07

 

 

Norwich Union IV 4 Bury St.Edmunds IV 0

Union went into their last league match of the season knowing a win would ensure they finished fourth.The early stages of the game saw Union struggle to come to terms with the Bury attacking formation of four forwards.On attack Union were getting a lot of space and time but were being frustrated by good performances by the Bury centre back and the novice goalkeeper.The stalemate was finally broken when the team’s top scorer Alan Quinton fired home to make it 1-0 and this was the score at half-time.

After a few words at half-time Union came out determined to finish the season off with a good second half performance.After more pressure Union continued to go close but not manage to find the net and Chris Millar in the Union goal made a couple of vital saves to prevent Bury drawing level.Union finally gave themselves some breathing space when Chris Harrison fired home from the top of the D.A third goal was scored when Tom Banham fired home a hard low shot past the keeper.

On full-time Bury were awarded a penalty flick when a Union player stopped the ball in front of goal with his foot.A great save by Chris Millar his second consecutive flick save ensured Union kept a clean sheet and ended the season with a positive goal difference to go along with fourth place.

Division 5NE

10/3/07

 

 

Norwich Union IV 4 Cranes II 1

Union made a good start to the game putting their opponents under pressure and building up attacks with phases of passing.An early chance arrived when a penalty flick was awarded but the Cranes goalkeeper saved this.As the half went on Cranes began to exert some pressure with quick breaks as gaps appeared between the Union midfield and defence and a few anxious moments were endured.Union opened the scoring before the break with a short corner strike into the corner of the goal from Mike Banham.

In the second half Union continued to have the majority of the play and took advantage of this with a reverse stick finish from Matt Willson to open a two goal lead.This lead was furthur increased when Alan Quinton collected the ball outside the D and dribbled into the D with a powerfull run and drilled the ball into the goal with a crisp shot. Cranes continued to try to get back into the game and Andel Williams who had been causing Union problems with his speedy dribbling pulled a goal back from close range.A timely tackle from Mike Banham ensured Cranes did not score a second goal.Union made the game safe just before the end with Mike Banham converting another short corner. An excellent team performance by Union moved them up to 6th and gives the opportunity to finish in 4th place if this level is repeated in the final 2 games of the season. Special mention of the strong individual performances of Andy Key on the right side of midfield and a solid defensive display by Ray Hansell.

Division 5NE

24/2/07

 

 

Norwich Union IV 3 Sudbury III 0

Union made an excellent start to the match dominating the early exchanges and creating numerous chances however the killer finishing touch could not be found to take advantage of this spell of play.Towards the end of the half the early exertions began to catch up with the Union players and the speed of their game dropped and udbury came more into the game but the game remained goaless at halftime.The second half resumed with Union reverting back to the way they had started the match but this time they took advantage of their pressure when they opened the scoring with an Ady Kemp shot through a group of players.Union doubled their lead when Tom Banham reacted quickest to a loose ball from a saved shot from a short corner to turn the ball in.The Union defence held firm as Sudbury tried to get back into the game and just before the end Union added a third after the forwards robbed the Sudbury defence and fed Patrick Vaneerten who lifted the ball over the goalkeeper and into the net to give a well deserved 3-0 win which lifted Union above their oponents in the league and up to 6th place.

Division 4NE

24/2/07

 

 

Felixstowe II 1 Norwich Union III 3

Close fought game won by the better passing side. Union’s defence was well marshalled by George, and thus the lead was always secure.

Division 2N

24/2/07

 

 

Norwich Union II 1 Cambridge University III 3

Tough game against a fit young side. Two quick goals killed off the game.

Division 1

24/2/07

 

 

Saffron Walden 4 Norwich Union 2

The early list of 14 players this week was soon whittled down so that by Friday night we were travelling with only 12 (11.5 with the sub-par health of the skipper). Special thanks to Richard Moulson for agreeing to play when he’d rather not have!

 

A fairly sociable 11am meet at Pinebanks was soon thrown into pandemonium as the skipper realised he’d left the shirts in Taverham. The first car was quickly filled and dispatched for a detour. It’s likely most of the other players rolled in late – the usually do – but for once it wasn’t recorded. The journey to Newport, near Saffron Walden was uneventful and the team arrived in lots of time for conversation in the dressing room and the captain’s briefing. Once the warm-up was moved from the main car-park thoroughfare it went pretty much to plan. The team arrived pitchside just as the game before ended and worked up to match pace with the infamous ‘Cross of Death’ sprint routine before passing and Jim-killing were brushed up. Union started with the wind at their backs and the captain croakily exhorting them onwards from the bench in between paroxysms of coughing.

 

So what went wrong? Saffron Walden played a very bold style pushing lots of players forward and then retreating en masse through the middle of the park to slow down counter-attacks. This left the wings very exposed at times. It was obvious early on why Saffron Walden have such high scoring games! Walden opened the scoring quite early on after a period of domination and soon had a second ‘goal’ disallowed after it went in off a striker’s arm (I think that was the reason). Union finally found their feet a bit but conceded again twice before finally finishing through Tom Bell.

 

Despite not coming on until 30 minutes in, the captain found himself on the brink of a card as union started to grumble rather too much about some of the decision, particularly at the end they were attacking. Not a smart move when that’s your end in the second half boys! Half time brought a useful discussion about Walden’s tactics and play afterwards was much better. Union had a 15 minute period of acendancy where there were plenty of chances to bring the game towards parity Chris Simmonds fired one in just wide of the post, which a defender graciously turned into his own net, but Walden managed to force a short corner in despite Jim getting a stick to it. The latter stages were marred by Union’s growing frustration. Goals weren’t forthcoming despite some good possession and the umpire at the defensive end was seeing intent in tackles that were just clumsy. Simmo finally said too much after a high ball left its mark and was dispatched to the corner. End result Saffron Walden 4 – Union 2.

 

Division 5NE

17/2/07

 

 

Norfolk Nomads 0 Norwich Union IV 0

Union started the game with some good news after hearing from the league that they had been awarded the previous weeks game 3-0 due to City’s strengthening of their side with players from a higher team. Unfortunatly Union’s umpire failed to turn up as he was suffering from flu and couldn’t contact the captain as the contact details were wrong in the fixture card, so a player had to umpire forcing a reshuffle and the team only having a bare eleven.A match where both sides cancelled each other out and chances were a rarity with defences on top and both sides struggling with the heat and Union also with the lack of sustitutes.Union had one good chance which was pushed wide from close range and though Nomads had several short corners they failed to trouble the Union goalkeeper.A good performance in defence by Glenn Tobias in his first game back after a lengthy spell out due to injury.

Division 4NE

17/2/07

 

 

Norwich Union III 0 Sudbury II 3

Close fought 1st half, missed flick saw Union go in 1-0 down. 2nd half was all Union with numerous short corners being won but sadly none converted. A Sudbury breakaway & some generous defending saw Sudbury take a 2-0 lead, after this the game was won.

Division 1

17/2/07

 

 

Norwich Union 3 Old de Ferrians 0

A home game, against a struggling opposition. Should be ours to take. Was it going to be that easy?

 

With a squad of 13, Union looked fairly strong. The continued absence of Robbie ‘under the thumb’ Kay led to a decision by the skipper to place himself in the centre back position to leave the rest of the defence unchanged. Simmonds returned to left midfield allowing Oli Browne to go up front. The other Browne brother returned from skiing, initially bolstering the bench as did Neil ‘Spender’ Harrison.After a suitable warm-up union began the game. The opposition inexplicably chose to play into the sun and gifted us the start and the first few minutes saw pressure on the Old De Ferrian defence. A short corner flick was well saved but union looked to have the upper hand. What actually happened was union mentally wrote off their opponents and spent the rest of the half charging down the middle and hitting hopeful balls. One of these punts at the oppo finally paid off as the ball was played in smartly by Oli for Tom to take a reverse stick swipe at. Edd showed Tom how to aim the same technique at goal and we were leading. During the half ODF did manage to make a few chances but the best – a dangerous cross to the goal-hanging forward – missed everyone and Jim was equal to all the rest. A 1-0 lead at half time was probably about right.The half time talk was aimed at getting the home team to start playing some hockey and there were a few signs that things might have picked up. The ball moved wider more and runs were made into the corner or the pitch. Unfortunately, most of the chances petered out through poor touches or over-ambitious running with the ball and with ODF rarely troubling the half became rather dull (please can I play up front now). As the half progressed Alex bagged himself a goal as the ball levitated across the face and Oli added a final touch on another (unless you ask his brother who scored). Other chances were missed as a lack of incisive play and general malaise swept through the pitch with the halcyon conditions more suitable for parasols and pimms. Somewhere along the lines Simmo managed to pick up a green card. Stupid Boy! Anyway, three valuable points for Union. Two hard away games to follow and every point helps. Union are now in relegation position on goals scored, equal on points with Bedford and Witham.

 

Division 4NE

10/2/07

 

 

Gorleston 1 Norwich Union III 3

Report from Gorleston Website – very fair & unbiased:

 

This was a vital game for Gorleston to win and with defeat probably goes their last chance for promotion this season. Despite fielding a strong team Gorleston never really got going until the second half and by then the game was beyond their reach.

Played in steady drizzle Gorleston’s first half performance was disappointing and they seemed unable to match the visitors better organization and eye for opportunities. Penned back in defence for much of the opening quarter Norwich Union’s first goal was typical – a break down the right wing was covered but when the cross came Colin Birch nipped in front of his marker to give Barney King in goal no chance at close range. Still the Gorleston forward line were unable to make an impression and tempers flared briefly before half-time when the visitors were awarded a second goal. A shot from outside the circle appeared to go through a crowd of players untouched into the net but the second umpire on the far touchline insisted Union’s Richard Draeger had got a deflection on the ball inside and after a lengthy conference with his colleague a goal was awarded.

 

Immediately after the interval the visitors struck again with their best and the decisive goal. Cley Hamilton made a darting run into the Gorleston circle beating his two markers and although he appeared to have taken the ball wide of the goal his reverse stick shot was too quick and accurate for Barney to deal with. It was only then that Gorleston seemed to come to life playing with the style and freedom of they are well capable. The catalyst was a well-taken short corner goal which Jamie Higginbotham flashed into the top corner of the visitors net and for the rest of the game the ball rarely left their half. But Norwich Union are not the sort of team to buckle under pressure and a well drilled defensive display saw them hold out for the three points which keep them third in the Division 4 NE League table with a game in hand and a real opportunity for promotion themselves. Gorleston now drop to fifth place.

 

Division 5NE

10/2/07

 

 

Norwich Union IV 2 Norwich City V 2

Union came up against a stronger than expected Norwich City 5 team(they had three of the Norwich City 4 forward line in their team1 being Ady Marr,which I have verbally complained about to our league secretary and will put in writing for the league to look into)but made a good start and took the lead when Will Kirby deflected in a short corner strike from Mike Banham at the post.City replied with a goal after a mazy run and finish from Adie Marr to level the scores.Hard work from Union resulted in them retaking the lead after a good move finished off by Will Kirby for his second goal of the game to give Union a 2-1 lead at halftime.Early in the second half City scored an equaliser through Paul Gallop.Then the Union captain was sinbinned for dissent but the remaining 10 players did an excellent job to hold the City forwards at bay during the suspension with Alan Quinton filling in excellently at central defence and keeping the dangerous city forward quiet.When Union returned to full strength chances were very few for either side but as time ran out City were awarded a penalty flick for a bad tackle to stop a scoring opportunity.The Union goalkeeper Chris Millar kept his side level when he saved Paul Gallop’s weak flick and the game ended in a draw.

Division 1

10/2/07

 

 

Brentwood 6 Norwich Union 3

As the day wore on it became apparent that the snow wasn’t going to have a long life in the UK and that there was little chance of a reprieve for the depleted Union side. News the Oli Browne had succumbed to a basketball injury and that his thumb may have gone the way of an England metatarsal necessitated the inclusions of Mr York-Smith, Wolf and as it turned out, a drunken Foxy. Already unavailable were Spender, Simmo, Alex, and Rob for a variety of reasons. Later siscovered that Oli Browne found to be injured but intact. – being 11th man brought out a feeling of heroism and he signed up

 

Union began fairly brightly despite a slightly curtailed warm-up. The first goal was scored by Oli Browne and all looked good. Brentwood looked to counter-attack down the flanks but managed to equalise by a spot of fortune with a loose ball that eluded the defence and fell just right for the forward. Still, Union held the centre of the pitch and they retook the lead. Luke King overlapped down the right and his first-time hit found its mark. And then it went wrong… Union had had the better of the game and seemed worth their lead. A short corner drag-flick hit the inside of the post and narrowly missed the opposite post as it pinged across the goal. Had it gone in then that might have caused Brentwood to capitulate. Instead, Brentwood one first one and then a second penalty stroke. Both were correctly awarded and ruthlessly dispatched.

 

At half time Union were 3-2 down despite their long periods of possession. Almost immediately after the restart another disaster occurred. Luke made an overly generous pass to the opposition who promptly took a two goal lead. Union retreated under the onslaught from a resurgent opposition and conceded a further two goals. A feisty spell saw Tom Bell earn a green card as he battled a similarly testosterone-charged foe and the last bit of spirit from the weary Union saw a shot from Mystic redirected on target by Oli. The final moments saw the centre back and sweeper pushing up like Peter Schmeichel for a late corner but to no avail. The journey home was aided by a few beers after Moulson’s failure to find Wtham Tesco was retrieved by a high street off licence. PYS bought the port although cheese plans had to be abandoned. Somewhere in the final paragraph, Foxy didn’t score.

 

Division 2N

10/2/07

 

 

Norwich Union II 3 Cambridge City II 2

Shock win versus the team Top of the table…& the 2nds only had 11 after a 11th hour steal of Robbie Kay by the 3rds, the 3rds & 2nd team Capt didn’t know the 1sts had stolen Mr Wolfe! Quote from an unnamed 2nd team source “To be fair I don’t think it would have happened without him. Matt was absolutely everywhere on the pitch” .

Division 2N

3/2/07

 

 

Peterborough III 4 Norwich Union II 1

A close game until the final stages when the lack of a Sub told and Peterborugh scored two late goals. Young Jones still showed he had got it – a first team recall awaits!

Division 1

3/2/07

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Peterborough Town II 0

Languishing once more in the relegation zone, Union were under pressure to regain the initiative and aim for full points. City of Peterborough meanwhile were looking to challenge for an outside chance at promotion. A close match in the first half of the season was won with a last-gasp goal by Peterborough but a strong union squad were up to redress the balance. Union started brightly (for a change), working extremely hard with the comforting sight of strength on the bench. Defence from the front was the order of the day and was continued energetically right through the team. The opening goal was to come via some well worked passing by a number of union players, Oli Browne finding his mark after a week off. Other chances fell to several players and went wide but good defending kept too many clear chances falling to the dangerous Peterborough strikers. Another goal by Oli took Union in at half time with a solid 2-0 lead

 

Peterborough’s interval talk clearly encouraged a more aggressive style of play as they tried to regain the initiative. Union fought hard to contain the attacks and Jim was called on to make a number of important saves. The depth on the bench was tested to the limit as players squeezed every last drop of their reserves out. Chances fell to both sides but neither looked destined to be successful. A moment of madness from Robbie Kay could have seen him taking an enforced break but the umpire showed a green card and the ball was retrieved from where it had been petulantly kicked to. The ensuing short corner, given prior to the offence was defended bravely and the loose ball cleared by Jim to great relief. With the second half ending in deadlock union were able to leave the field triumphant. Our first clean sheet was a credit to the Jim and the defence. Dave Rutherford was man of the match. In further divisional news, Witham stayed just out of reach with a narrow win but Bedford slipped up to allow Union to leave the bottom four again. We now have to play all the teams below us before the season’s end so it’s within our own hands to survive. On this week’s performance we are in with a good chance.

 

Division 5NE

3/2/07

 

 

Harleston VII 0 Norwich Union IV 7

The result won’t count in the league as after the game it was discovered that the opposition had been kicked out of the league due to conceding too many games and all their results are now void.It was still worth playing though to allow us to put in such a good performance in preparation for upcoming matchs.)With only 11 players after late withdrawals and after having to wait around for the opposition to find an umpire Union made a fast start to the game taking control and putting the opposition on the back foot and enabling them to play the game in Harleston’s half of the pitch.An early goal was scored by Alan Quinton after an accurate pass from halfway the lead was soon increased with goals added by Will Kirby and Tom Banham.A brief dip in the pace that Union had been playing at occured towards the end of the half so no furthur goals were scored before half-time so Union went into the break 3-0 ahead.After a half-time talk Union resumed at the high pace they had started the game at with wonderfull crisp accurate passing.More goals began to be added with second goals for Kirby and Quinton and a goal for Chris Harrison with a shot from an acute angle.Goalkeeper Robbie Whiting made two excellent saves from seperate short corners to prevent Harleston getting a consolation goal and ensure a clean sheet for Union.With the last hit of the game Alan Quinton scored to get his hat-trick reacting quickest to turn the ball in when the Harleston keeper made a save from the last short corner of the game.This was an excellent team performance with a great exhibition of fast passing hockey.

Division 1

27/1/07

 

 

Witham 3 Norwich Union 0

Hi All. Here’s time for some of my usual musings:

 

Early on a cool and grey Saturday morning, the Union first XI saddled up in a Moulson-driven minibus to head for darkest Essex. Witham have been Union’s bogey team for several years now but have struggled in recent months and tumbled down the table. A win for Union would put 6 points between the two sides and maintain our climb.A new pitch, in Witham itself, offered promise of a better surface than that at Braintree leisure centre although yet to be built facilities caused the team to travel changed. Despite this, a critical decision not to stop at services left several of the team warming up rather gingerly in a ‘John Wayne’ style of movement. The pitch itself proved to be slow and rather bouncy which undoubtably had something to do with the number of missed stops and failed skills to come. The match started and immediately the men in pink (the ones with whistles) made a crucial impact on the outcome. A strong early challenge by Rich Smith just inside Union’s 25 was penalised with a short corner and a still day-dreaming defence failed to clear a dangerous ball wide of Giles’ left post. One-nil down before working up a sweat. The half proceded in a very uniform manner; Witham banged the ball hard down their right flank to a forward who tried repeatedly taking on Rich Smith. Most tackles by Smith and also by Chris Simmonds were penalised despite the hammering everyone else seemed to take in 50-50 challenges. Union failed to gel up front and created few chances and no short corners. To cap a miserable 35 minutes, Witham scored again just before half time after a well worked short corner dragged everyone out of position and Giles was unable to keep it out.Two is never enough – we’ve seen that many times before and so hope remained.

 

At least, until the whistle blew and the match restarted. The second half was pretty much as turgid as the first and even when Witham went down to 10 men after a fairly innocuous challenge things didn’t really look like changing. A few short corners were won but didn’t realise anything. With a few minutes to go some fancy footwork and a 70 yard pass put a striker through one on one with Giles and he found his mark. Had Union been so clinical then things might have been different.So what now? We know we can play better than that so it’s time to mark that as a never-to-be-repeated low. A few missing players return to bolster the side and the short corner practice which was put off due to the lack of a training session will surely become a priority. Union have played some very impressive hockey at times this season but it needs to happen every week.

 

Division 5NE

27/1/07

 

 

Harleston VI 2 Norwich Union IV 3

Union struggled in the first half to get to grips with the experienced players in the opposition team and twice went behind but each time lifted their game to equalise.The first a short corner strike from Mike Banham and the second a mazy dribbling run from Martin Lee and clinical finish making good use of an excellent advantage played by the umpire.The team went in level at halftime but knowing they would have to play better in the second half if they wanted to get the three points.The team started with more determination in the second half and soon took the lead with a short corner variation with the ball being returned to the injector Andy Key who fired home.The team continued to have the better of the half with plenty of attacking play but couldn’t find another goal which led to a few anxious moments at the end of the game as Harleston tried valiantly to find an equaliser but Union just about ran out deserved winners though not having played as well as they have of late.

Division 1

20/1/07

 

 

Norwich Union 4 Cambridge Nomads 4

Time for more waffle from the first team – a match with lots to talk about!

 

The first post-Christmas league match was against high-flying Cambridgeshire Nomads, who had convincingly beaten Union at home. This was a very different side though and confidence was high.An earnest team talk was followed by a comprehensive warm-up on the pitch and for a change, Union looked ready to play from the off. A tactical error by the captain saw us facing into the low sun, having taken the ball. Union held on to it fairly well and the opening exchanges were quite even.It took a short corner for things to go wrong, A change of angle from the striker opened up a clear shot which thumped into the backboard. A further short corner was awarded after a clearance kick deflected up to give Luke a cut forehead. The argument as to whether Jim had raised the ball progressed until a green card was shown and Nomads added insult to injury by hammering home again.Two is never enough. Thus spake the Wolfe many seasons past and so it proved to be.

 

The introduction of the short-tressed homunculus Tom Bell saw immediate rewards after some unselfish play set him up on the back post. With almost his next touch he was able to muscle through the defence to equalise. Union momentum was to be lost soon after when Jim lost control at the umpire again and was shown a yellow card. Goalkeeping rules have changed. Did anyone else know that? You don’t need to have anyone kitted up and so various options were toyed with and rejected. Thanks to Gary for offering his services but not being on the team-sheet it seemed unwise. Oli Browne offered to stick on a lid and take his chances. Nutter! In the end Luke put on the kit – perhaps still suffering from his bruised pate. The short corner was successfully defended but just before half time another short was bundled over for a well finished hat-trick. 2-3 at half time.Jim returned to the fray for the second half and Union revelled in the return to full strength. Goals from Edd Smith and Rob Kay, both from broken down short corners, gave union the lead although mad substitutions (sorry guys, lost track) perhaps caused havoc.

 

The win was not to come however as a fourth goal, same guy and another short gave Nomads a point they probably deserved.Good results below leave union in 8th and with a chance to climb next week.

 

Division 2N

20/1/07

 

 

Norwich City II 7 Norwich Union II 1

After an unfortunate accident during warm up whereby Andy Kelsall put the ball over the UEA fence and straight through the back windscreen of Ricky’s punto, NU got off to a flying start. We took an early lead from a short corner stirke form Andy Kelsall and it looked like the 2’s were really up for the game. More sustained pressure from NU saw us gain 10 yards on numerous occasions as City, ratlled by our early onslaught, began arguing with the Umpires decisions.

 

Then came a momentary lapse in concentration that allowed City to equal the score at 1-1 against the run of play. But from that point onwards a dark cloud descended over the NU players that saw us forget every basic hockey principle known and allowed city to take control of the game. Persisitent pressure form city was rewarded with several short corners which were converted in addition to a number of goals from open play. Although NU regained some of their drive and commitment during the last 10 minutes, probably through pure frustration and disappointment, the game ended in a very disappointing 7-1 to Norwich City.

Division 5NE

20/1/07

 

 

Norwich Union IV 2 Ipswich IV 3

In a game against the 100% league leaders Union started slowly and allowed Ipswich to dictate the game in the early stages and were made to pay by there oponents who ran into a 3-0 lead.A set of sustitutions helped Union to start to match the opposition and just before halftime a goal was pulled back when Matt Willson reacted quickest when the ball came loose after a save from the Ipswich keeper to slot the ball home.The second half saw Union come out and take control of the game and put Ipswich onto the back foot and a further goal was pulled back with a good shot from Ady Kemp.Though Union continued to dominate they could not find another goal.This was an excellent performance by two good sides playing the game in a good spirit and with good hockey skills.If we can maintain this level of performance we will be winning the majority of the games we have left to play.

Friendly

13/1/07

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Norwich City 3

Another grey day, another derby match. When will the season restart? Union started with a promising team. No Oli Browne but the bench was bolstered by the keenness of Spender and the experience of Phil York-Smith. Glen ‘Twitcher’ Richardson saw his chance to escape and went off to watch birds in some far-flung place. Still, 13 is always a luxury. The enthusiasm of the team was immediately apparent as only three players arrived on time. Yes, that’s GMT chaps. Richard Moulson might well have made it but for Robbie ‘I never actually read my email properly’ Kay not noticing the slightly early start time and keeping him waiting. Apologetic texts started to arrive…

 

The team talk was uninspirational. That was officially voted on after the match so it must be true. The warm up was limp. Then the problems started. Only one umpire? Well, he’s with City so who is ours? Ah, we don’t have an umpire? Frantic phone calls uncovered the unfortunate truth. Thankfully an umpire from the game before agreed to double up and we escaped having two City umpires! (there were both City peeps Rupert). City started very quickly as union struggled to get out of first gear. Playing with three forwards and their defensive line pushed right up to the half way, city were able to apply lots of pressure and it looked like working immediately. Union passes went astray with alarming regularity and a combination of lax marking and rash missed tackles kept Jim on his toes. After a few near-misses a goal was inevitable. Was it the back post tap-in or the short corner first? I’m quite sure I can’t remember! Anyway, at 2-0 down, union found their balls and started to put up a fight. A badly executed short corner (one of several) fell for the skipper to shunt the ball optimistically goalwards. The defender on the line was unlikely to be beaten until up popped substitute ‘Spender’ and rammed it home to bring us back into the game. His attempt to get substituted was greeted from the sideline by the encouraging “when you score another one” and so on he stayed. Another outbreak of foot in mouth disease was starting to spread amongst the union players as they fought for control and a few decisions seemed to lack the hoped-for consistency between umpires. Robbie Kay suffered a full blown attack of the disease and his tourette-style should of “You idiot” right in the umpires face allowed him a well earned sick leave. Half time and out came the Christmas jelly babies. Out too came a whinge from the captain which was lightened towards the end as ‘Mystic’ Edd accentuated the positive. Quickly seizing on this, Snelling said a few jolly things and sent the boys back on their way.

 

The second half was a close affair. Union had found some confidence on the ball and passing ability which had otherwise eluded them. Sadly it was City who took the initiative when a well used third party (surely not) set up a reverse shot which was nicely slotted away. Union protestations grew until the captain quelled them with a ‘time-out’ which was criticised at the time but which settled the side for the rest of the game. Union made some good raids as City tired (union tired too but that’s not the point) and Ben Miles was able to weave some magic to score and bring the game close again. A typical last five saw union looking dangerous but the game stayed tantalisingly out of reach and ended Union 2 – City 3. Next week sees us back into league action against Cambridge Nomads. We lost this one badly last time but that was a long time ago and a surprise might be in store if they don’t take us seriously.

 

Friendly

13/1/07

 

 

Norwich City IV 0 Norwich Union IV 5

Union started the game at a fast pace and took control of the game and turned this into an early goal when Tom Banham scored his first goal for the team.The fast passing game Union were playing continued and they deservedly doubled their lead when Tom Banham scored his second goal.As the first half passed the halfway stage City came more into the game but good marking and a solid display by the defence prevented them from scoring.The start of the second half saw Union return to their passing game using the with and stretching the opposition players and scored a quick goal with a short corner strike from Mike Banham which killed the game off.Tom Banham then completed his hat-trick and a final goal was scored by Richard Draeger with a slight deflection from a corner which then deflected off an oponoent into the net.A great team performance to set the team up for the resumption of the league program against the 100% leage leaders next week.

Friendly

6/1/07

 

 

Norwich Union IV 3 Harleston Magpies V 4

In the first match since the Christmas break Union 4 played a friendly against a team from a division above.In the first half Union had a short spell of good play but were made to pay for poor marking and rustiness from the break and at halftime found themselves 4-0 down.

A revitalised second half performance saw a display of excellent passing hockey with the ball being moved round quickly and accurately with good support for the players in possesion.The Harleston players were also being well marked and not being allowed time on the ball and as a result they were being put under extreme pressure.Union were rewarded for this good play with three goals a short corner strike from Banham,a close range effort from Quinton when Harleston failed to clear a short corner and the goal of the game a stunning shot hit with pace into the opposite corner from Key. An equaliser could not be found in the remaining time but if Union repeat their second half form for the rest of the season some good results will be achieved.

Division 4NE

16/12/06

 

 

Norwich Union III 3 Felixstowe II 1

After a closely fought 1st half the game came to life. The trio of Rutledge, Biscuit & Trigger controlled the centre of the pitch with Jones gradually running off his hangover & proving a handful up front. Rutledge opened the scoring only for a classic “most vunerable when you have just scored” reply from the Felixtowe. Although how the unmarked man standing at the back post wasn’t picked up….!! A turn of pace from Bruce saw him beat his man, play a long ball forward & after some neat inter play between Trigger & Jones the young South African scored to restore Unions lead. Umpire Morley then got him self added to the Felixtowe Xmas card list….Trigger drove forward, played the ball to Jones whopromptly MISSED it…however, the ball ended up in the goal, and initially a 16 was given. Kelv realised which side his bread was buttered, or more importantly who was paying his fee & buying him a beer……..and the goal was awarded, clearly after careful consideration Trigger was in the D when he passed to Garnett! Despite pulling one back Union held firm for a well deserved win.

Division 1

16/12/06

 

 

Norwich Union 3 Spalding 2

11am in Spalding. The day after the drinking session. What’s wrong with that picture?

 

Well, we managed to turn up at Pinebanks with the last arrival about 15 minutes late. Spalding insisted that 11 was the only slot they could get and the league forced the game to go ahead despite a meet time of 8.45. The patisseries provided by Dave Rutherford were much appreciated – bananas being spurned for the sugar rush and we set off. A few minor detours later and we arrived to the duck infested realms of Gleed Boys School. The Spalding team were already out on the pitch and warming up and the umpires soon started the game despite Union having only ten minutes to shake off the journey.

 

Union started with some woeful displays of passing ceding possession repeatedly, although Spalding’s long ball strategy soon returned it. A sky-scraping aerial down the left wing was narrowly missed behind the opposition defence as the crapulent team in white started to gain the ascendancy. After an imaginatively saved short corner failed to open the skipper’s account the union side finally broke through for Alex Browne to score with a cheeky reverse effort.

 

Half time saw a tactical swap as Oli Browne’s (non alcoholic) illness started to take hold. Oli moved to the forward line with his brother to hide from the game.With Alex rampaging amongst the maroon defenders, union grew over-confident and chances started to appear at both ends. Oli proved quickest to the ball twice to outscore his sibling but union also conceded a couple of soft goals that on another day might have been negated. With three minutes to go, Ben Miles went to the corner with the ball. The rest is history.

 

Team for next week. Santa, Rudolf, Dancer, Prancer, Donner, Blitzen, Some elves. Oh who cares? UNION ARE OUT OF THE BOTTOM FOUR!!!

 

Merry Christmas to you all.

 

Division 1

9/12/06

 

 

St. Neots 2 Norwich Union 3

St Neots are flying high above in Division 1, having won 9 of their 11 first half league games. With a bare 11, union went in determined to play some good hockey and make the ball do the work. The absence of Mystic Edd in the middle was countered by the return to the team of Ben Miles after his ‘wilderness years’ in New Zealand. Gary joined the team in the forward line, brimming with desire to show his old club a thing or two.

 

Union made a terrific start, playing the ball around effectively and making raids into the opposition area. After a couple of sighters including a backhand shot, Ben put himself firmly back into the union affections by seizing on a loose ball to beat the keeper.

 

St Neots reorganised and started making some worrying breaks with their pacy forwards who included a member of the Lion King cast. A well worked move overwhelmed the cover and Jim was left stranded as the ball was efficiently dispatched into the goal. Soon afterwards, a speculative free hit in towards the post found the stick of Alex Browne who having previously dented the post, tipped it in to regain the lead.

 

Both teams continued to show they were out for the points and the umpires copped most of the resulting flak. A green card was awarded to a St Neots for chat although in a strange decision a Greg Louganis impression by the Saints striker resulted in an attacking free hit but no card. I don’t think anyone got that one…

 

The captains were called over at half time to calm down the back-chat and for Union it seemed to work. They soaked up the inevitable pressure and made a series of breaks which finally forced Saints onto the back foot. A raid down the left put Alex through with only the keeper to beat but things went a tad wrong (jug avoidance?) and a move by Gary was forcibly stopped just outside the 25 to produce a rather obvious yellow card.

 

A lapse in defence allowed Saints to equalise as two defenders were beaten and Dave’s stick struggled like an eel to escape his clutch. The goal was well taken at the near post. Union continued to press and a cross ‘d’ ball to Luke gave him time to pick his spot (and I think he took enough time to pick some flowers too) so hammer home his first Union goal.

 

Another call to the captains, with the umpire blaming the players for ruining the game for him and there were ninety seconds left. The skipper called for a cynical run into the corner and Ben obliged.

 

After about 3 minutes of the ninety seconds, with surely no time remaining, the union captain mysteriously put the ball across the area to push for a late extra goal. Surely there was no time left to get down the other end? This moment of madness, which cost heavily in the fines session, gave Saints one last chance although I think limbs would have been lost before they were allowed to take it.

 

Man of the match was a three way tie although paper-scissors-stone proved Alex to be most worthy. The other two, Ben and Luke get honourable mentions in Dispatches. Frankly, we should all get medals!

 

Division 5NE

9/12/06

 

 

North Walsham II 4 Norwich Union IV 2

This was a classic game of 2 halves.Union made an excellent start to the game with good attacking play with Martin Lee and Simon Parsons in centre midfield linking and supporting the forwards.Union took the lead from a Mike Banham shot from a short corner.The lead was doubled when Mike’s son Richard used his pace to beat the defence and slot the ball past the goalkeeper as he came out.Though Walsham had several short corners Union kept them out and went into halftime 2-0 up.Tactical changes made by Walsham at halftime strengthened their midfield and they began to dominate and soon got back on level terms.Union were also struggling to get players up field to help the forwards when they had the ball.Walsham were then awarded a flick and Union were reduced to 10 men when a player was yellow carded for questioning the decision.The Union keeper Millar made a great save from the flick.Union worked hard to prevent any goals going in while a player down but the efforts needed caused the team to run out of steam in the latter stages and Walsham were able to add 2 more goals to run out 4-2 winners.

Division 5NE

2/12/06

 

 

Bury IV 2 Norwich Union IV 1

Union had to start this game with 9 players as two players had got lost on the way.The 9 did an excellent job preventing Bury taking advantage of the extra men and even creating chances of their own.When the team reached full strength instead of improving their play Union started forgetting basics and leaving Bury players unmarked.Though Union hit the post through Chris Harrison they were fortunate to go into halftime level at 0-0. Though a halftime team talk tried to correct the problems Union were punished for more carelessness and a slow start to the second half as Bury scored twice.As the half wore on Union started to improve and forced the Bury goalkeeper to make some good saves and the rebounds just wouldn’t fall to the Union forwards.A great stop on the line by the post by a defender denied Mike Banham what looked like a certain goal from a short corner strike.Finally Union made their pressure count when a Bury defender turned the ball into his own net when trying to clear.The goal was so late in the gme that Union didn’t have time to score another.

Best player on the day for Union was Mark Harrison.

Division 5NE* 3-0 result awarded to Bury IV

25/11/06

 

 

Norwich Union IV 3 Norwich City IV 6

Union started brightly and a good spell of early pressure was rewarded with a close range goal at the far post from Chris Harrison.However City’s Ady Marr then began to come intohis own and Union couldn’t cope with his speed on the ball and dribbling skills and conceded 3 goal to reach the break 1-3 behind.

A tactical change by Union took place at halftime but initially City added another goal.Union showed great character to fight back and scored two goals through Alan Quinton and a strike from a short corner by Mike Banham to bring the score back to 3-4.Pushing for an equaliser Union conceded another two goals tu leave the final score 3-6 with Marr scoring 4 goals for City and Sparrow 2. A good performance by Matt Wilson on his return from 2 months out with a broken wrist.

Division 1

18/11/06

 

 

Berkhamstead 2 Norwich Union 3

A very early start picking up the minibus to make a 9am meet time left me and a few other players looking decidedly bleary-eyed but we made good time with Simmo at the wheel and arrived in Tring to the music of Top Gun and with a growing feeling of enthusiasm creeping in.A quick change and car-park warm-up ensued with us taking the pitch as soon as it was clear and cracking on with the ballwork. The decidedly slow and bouncy pitch taking a bit of getting used to. Another successful coin toss (4 in a row I think) and I chose to play with the sun at our backs and downwind.Before the match I was briefed by one of our reacquired players (he turned down the offer of a trip) on Berko’s way of playing hockey. ‘Physical, long ball and watch out for the fat, grey haired guy up front – let him talk himself off the pitch as he’s capable of it’.The game started with Berko piling forward, hitting long and aiming at the fat, grey haired guy up front and they we were slow to respond with a rather changed side. A few corners went Berko’s way (though several breakaways nearly went ours) and they put one in with a ball tipped in on the Jim’s left.At this point the final part of the prophecy came true. Number 10, the corpulent, grizzle tressed striker made a comment of “where was the advantage” which the umpire managed to mangle into “you blind B*st*rd!” A yellow card was awarded, which even the union players argued against.At this point the game changed. Union started to get things together. Rich Phillis stepped up to the pace of div one and we started to chuck around some better passes. After several chances going begging, Olly Browne finished crisply from a loose ball in the ‘D’.Garnett made his cameo appearance on the pitch and showed that he is still a quality player despite the reduction in his once-searing pace. By halftime we were in the ascendancy and the mood was confident.

 

After even more chances had not quite found the Berko net, a disaster occurred. A cross found a Berko foot, looped up into the air over Jim and was put away in confusion. The umpire missed the foot and the goal stood.The game was slightly shaky for a while but union settled again and Berko tempers began to fray. Another yellow card was produced and suddenly the game shifted back to the good guys. A top-spin short corner strike from Olly Browne at the top position hit the keeper and somehow jumped over him into the net. Union losing now would have been a travesty and with five minutes to go the keeper failed to stop Alex Browne getting passed him without a desperate lunge. The resulting penalty was converted confidently (Snelling) (after a discussion about the position of the spot relative to the goal – the ball was placed about a foot from the mark to be central).Beer, service stations and singing all featured in the next few hours. Job done.

 

I think the team deserve real credit for the way they played. This was the antithesis of the Cambridge University game – stifling, smothering tackles with play constantly broken down and long hits predominating. It took ten or fifteen minutes for us to adjust but we did so brilliantly and finished as by far the stronger team. Rich Phillis stepped up very well in difficult circumstances and Garnett showed his class. Edd Smith was man of the match but with three people only a vote behind and three getting a mention, it was very tight.

 

Division 2N

18/10/06

 

 

Norwich Union II 3 Ely 2

A good hard performance by Union combined with the opposition hitting the post 4 times gave the home team their first points of the season!

Division 4NE

18/11/06

 

 

Norwich Union III 2 Crane 2

Tight game,- We had most of the pressure but failed to find the right final ball. Despite the generous nature of young John a point was earnt 3 mins from time.

Division 5NE

18/11/06

 

 

Crane II 1 Norwich Union IV 5

Norwich Union 4 travelled to this away game with just 11 players and an outfield player having to take the role of gaolkeeper and several players playing out of position.The team made the perfect start to the game with an early goal from a short corner converted at close range by A.Quinton.Instead of pressing on the team dropped it’s level and gave the ball away too easily and were made to pay when Cranes levelled the score and this is how it remained at halftime. After a change to a short accurate passing game in the second half Union began to take control and build up the pressure and were rewarded with two goals in quick succession.This included a first goal for Union by Simon Beckett in only his third game in mens hockey.As the game wore on Union scored with a short corner strike from Banham and Kirby scored his second goal in the half to emphasize their superiority.A great performance by the team with special mention to the midfield with good performances by Chris and Mark Harrison and Alan Quinton all playing out of position and a strong second half display by Ollie Ireland.

Division 1

11/11/06

 

 

Cambridge Unviersity II 1 Norwich Union 1

A strong Union side this week and a good warm-up ensured that we went into this match with confidence. Having won the toss and taken the ball, union then held it for a long period throwing it around the team with real aplomb. Dave Rutherford got to play the villain and finally let Cambridge have a touch. From this point a really high quality match emerged. Cambridge came to play good hockey too and showed discipline and skill in possession and good work-rate when union had the ball.After a long and well played stalemate for most of the first half a moment of magic led to an opener for union. Rob Wagstaff, fresh on from the bench, received the ball near to the opposition back line and reverse-sticked it across the goal for Tom Bell to finish firmly into the corner. This lead was maintained all the way to half time and beyond.The second half continued as before with tight marking and hard work off the ball from both teams. Man-of-the-match Richard Smith showed exceptionally good skill and timing to nullify a pacy right winger and several chances were made in the Cambridge half. Sadly a missed tackle in the ‘D’ fell kindly for a Cambridge forward and he put it away coolly, leaving Jim no chance. The rest of the game was nip and tuck but no further goals were scored. Union Move up one place and Cambridge fall one as a result.

Division 4NE

11/11/06

 

 

UEA II 2 Norwich Union III 1

After creating a number of openings Union opened the scoring after good work from Mal set up Garnett for a good finish. After holdiong of a UEA fightback a dubious short corner right on half time led to the equaliser. The 2nd half was mostly one way traffic with UEA finally forcing an winner through an ‘OG’!

Division 5NE

11/11/06

 

 

Norwich Union IV 2 Pelicans III 2

A game between two sides playing quality hockey with Union showing great character to come from a goal down twice to gain a well deserved draw.Pelicans took the lead in an even first half when a forward deflected in a free hit from outside the D.A tactical change at half-time saw Richard Banham come on and man-to-man mark the Pelicans playmaker which wung the game in Unions favour.Concerted pressure was rewarded with an equaliser by A.Quinton.The game swung from end to end and with 10 minutes to go Pelicans regained the lead when a penalty flick was converted.Refusing to be beaten Union pressed on and got a deserved equaliserfrom A.Quinton and had chances to win the game as both sides pressed hard in the final moments.An excellent game with a great team performance with each player giving their all and some great passing hockey played by the team.

Division 1

4/11/06

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Saffron Walden 1

A second win today for the first XI 2-1 against Saffron Walden. In many ways a similar game to the week before, lots of possession and chances including a number of 2 on 1 which didn’t come off. This was an untidy match for both sides and the ball was turned over repeatedly through unforced errors.The second half started with a bright move into the opposition ‘D’ and the keeper’s high clearance earned us a short corner. The sneaky drag-flick down the middle opened the account for Snelling and Union. As Walden became increasingly desperate to equalise they overstretched themselves and a fine move through a number of players created a free top of the area shot which was dispatched by a happy captain. From that point the game became very messy with some needle developing between the teams. A Robbie Kay tackle earned a generous green card and a back stick tackle by Dave Rutherford was made only just outside the area (also earning a green). Walden scored a short corner, finally beating heroic man-of-the-match Jim – whose knee had been causing him real pain since the first half. Union had more chances as pressure was applied to them but the remainder of the game was goal-less.

Division 5NE

4/11/06

 

 

Sudbury III 6 Norwich Union IV 1

A 10 man fourth team worked very hard but the numerical advantage which was exacerbated when a player became injured leaving the team with only 9 fit players was too much to overcome.Sudbury scored early and scored four goals before halftime but just before the break Union pulled back a goal with a superb reverse stick pass from halfway by Thompson which picked out Key in the D who finished with a cool shot.The team did well to only allow Sudbury to score two goals in the second half.A good team performance with special mention of the play of the youngsters Tom Banham and Simon Beckett and an excellent display in midfield by Richard Thompson.

Division 1

28/10/06

 

 

Old de Ferrians 3 Norwich Union 2

Pre-match shenanigans led to us accepting a non-pool umpire at one end (the missing man was in New York?). This gave us trouble at one end all game.

 

Once we started we went quickly a goal down before the game had settled into any rhythm. A foul on Robbie in the area should have been penalised and instead the ball found its way over the line. A second goal came against the improving run of play although we weren’t rattled for too long this time. One of a procession of poor short corners was tipped in by Edd to take us to 2-1 at half time.

 

We started the second half brightly with some good raids down the middle by Luke and solid defending. Several more short corners went unconverted before we were 3-1 down to a sucker-punch goal. A second Edd Smith goal gave us hope, especially as ODF were reduced to 10 after one too many stick tackles but the overload was poorly used with lots of over-ambitious long balls played (captain also sadly culpable). Despite perhaps being the better side we were unable to find the net again and slipped to 11th of 12. A sick Edd Smith was man of the match with good contributions from Jason Wolfe and very unselfish cover from Neil Shorten when we really needed him. Two home games on the trot now.

 

Division 2N

28/10/06

 

 

Norwich Union II 1 Harleston Magpies II 8

Heavy defeat against a strong Magpies side. The next four games are against the other 4 in the bottom 5…..a good opportunity for a run of results.

Division 4NE

28/10/06

 

 

Sudbury II 3 Norwich Union III 4

Even first half ended with us 2 nil down. Early 2nd half goal from Garnett reinforced the self belief. Further good work from Garnett led to a poached 2nd from Cross. By this stage Sudbury were well & truly on the racks…until a quick snooze allowed them to regain the lead. With 10 mins to go… McQuade out of defence to Trigger, aerial to Tom – bang…equaliser. From that stage there was only going to be one winner….& with 2 mins to go fianlly we converted a short corner, Trigger through the defender on the post.

Division 5NE

28/10/06

 

 

Norwich Union IV 3 Norfolk Nomads 0

Union gained their fourth successive league win to maintain the pressure on the leaders.Union took an early lead with a low drilled shot by Banham from a short corner.Despite continuing pressure they couuld not add to their lead in the first half. At the start of the second half Union withheld a spell of Nomads pressure before stretching their lead with a reverse stick finish at the far post from Kirby from a crossfield pass.A furthur goal was added from a Banham penalty stroke to make the final score 3-0.A good display from the defence was rewarded with the first clean sheet of the season.

Division 1

21/10/06

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Brentwood 1

A very bright start for Union, lots of possession with the ball played across the back with aplomb. Basically the start we’ve been waiting for. First half went generally well with several chances and a shot touched in by Tom Bell after a decent build-up.Brentwood came out rather more aggressively in the second half and started to cause a few problems. We started to get stuck back in our half and Brentwood had a few opportunities. Despite this, union put together some good attacks and a missed ball arrived on the end of a certain Mr Snelling’s stick and was routinely put away. 10 minutes of panic included a Brentwood short corner goal and we were up against it for a while. Despite several niggly moments we were able to get back on top of things and see the game out with a few more chances coming our way. Man of the match was Robbie Kay, who sprayed the ball around the back and underpinned our team’s performance.

Division 2N

21/10/06

 

 

Cambridge City II 9 Norwich Union II 0

A hard working display from the players that travelled, ultimately the opposition, who are unbeaten, were just too strong.

Division 4NE

21/10/06

 

 

Norwich Union III 2 Gorleston 0

A hardworking Gorleston side had all the early pressure. Gradually the extra quality in the 3rds took over, Wolfe scoring after following up on a mis hit shot. Cross then added a 2nd after another good through ball from Spender. No real alarms in the 2nd half & a comfortable win was achieved.

Division 5NE

14/10/06

 

 

Norwich City V 2 Norwich Union IV 3

A slow start by Union with difficulty picking up the opposition players,as the half went on things came together and a goal by VanEerten saw the team go into halftime with the lead.A good start to the second half saw the lead increased by a short corner variation with VanEerten drilling a shot into the corner of the goal.City pulled a goal back but a deflection from the fit again Kirby from a Banham shot from a short corner opened up the two goal lead.City pulled a goal back from a short corner but didn’t look like scoring again.A third successive win which should really have been by a greater margin but a good performance should keep the 4th team in 3rd place in their division.

Division 1

14/10/06

 

 

City of Peterborough II 2 Norwich Union 1

First of all the result, losing 2-1 away to City of Peterborough 2nds leaves NU perilously at the bottom of the division. Despite this Union played a much more competitive game yesterday, scoring first and creating a bit of havoc. In part this was down to a change back to a 4-4-2 system with which players were more comfortable. Despite this NU still created few scoring chances and only one short corner so this needs to be improved. Man of the match Luke showed more of what he is capable of and looks to have cemented his place in the side.

Division 4NE

14/10/06

 

 

Bury III 2 Norwich Union III 3

Solid win with several regulars missing. After a snooze on the way to Bury, Brooks and Stephens woke up in time to score the 1st & last goals with Jones scoring in between.

Division 5NE

14/10/06

 

 

Norwich Union IV 2 Harleston MagpiesVII 1

Union dominated the first half with waves of pressure and pinned Harleston into their own half not letting them out by good pressing of the opposition 16 hits.The goal this pressure deserved wasn’t forthcoming and at halftime it was goal-less. At the break the talk was to carry on and the pressure would turn into goals.Unfortunatly the reverse happened and for 5 mins the team went to sleep and were punished when Harleston opened the scoring from a short corner.The team responded well to this setback and managed to get back on top and equalised through Martin Lee.The game was then interupted by a pitch invasion by a dog that had got off it’s lead.The teams good play was rewarded by an excellent winner which started from a 16 by Mike Banham and with 3 other passes involving Alan Quinton and Partrick VanEerten cut the opposition apart and resulted in Quniton scoring.

Division 5NE

7/10/06

 

 

Norwich Union IV 2 Harleston Magpies VI 1

A below par performance in the first half saw the 4th team struggling to contain the Magpies midfield and a goal was conceded to go into halftime 0-1 down.A strengthened central midfield and improved work rate saw Union get on top and start to apply pressure and a good move involving Richard Banham and Alan Quinton saw Ben Dures score an equaliser.Harleston were struggling to make chances and the winning goal came when a bouncing shot from Van Eerten beat the keeper.Union saw the game out with just one anxious moment.

Division 4NE

7/10/06

 

 

UEA III 0 Norwich Union III 8

UEA 3rds were hopeless, just a case of playing as a team & seeing how many we could score! And score we did with Wolfe bagging 3, Hant 2, Price another 2 (yes Price!) and Rutledge getting a single.

Division 1

7/10/06

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Witham 3

So what happened? We started out with a strong-looking team with bench cover to boot and all looked bright. Once again our defence looked excellent, turning over the ball repeatedly. Where things went wrong was with getting over the half-way line and putting Witham under pressure.

 

After 10 minutes of being a bit under pressure we started to gain a period of ascendancy and after about 20 minutes we created an open goal chance which was unfortunately missed. A couple of further chances went begging but we went into half-time once again at 0-0. This lasted for about 10 minutes before a ball got through and the forward put it in through the rushing Jim’s legs. Two more goals rattled in over the space of about 7 minutes and the game was pretty much over. Despite settling the ship it rarely looked as though Union would actually score. End result 0-3.

 

Division 1

30/9/06

 

 

Cambridge Nomads 4 Norwich Union 2

A good warm-up and positive attitude meant we started with a good level of confidence. A few formational issues had been talked through and we seemed more more clued up than before. As the game got underway it was clear that we were going to be much more competitive than last week.

 

So what happened? There were just too many silly mistakes made. Too many runs straight into defender’s sticks and a whole host of passes going astray. Cambridge did far better at taking their chances although Tom showed good persistence to take us into half time at 1-1. Things deteriorated in the second half with a number of instances of indiscipline compounding our problems. Cambridge took the score to 4-1 and heads dropped. A well hit short corner from Olly Browne brought us back into things a bit with ten to go, but the rest of the game played out instalemate. Union are now bottom of the table although only two teams have more than 3 points. There are still lots of positives in the way we defended but we have to hold the ball better.

 

Division 2N

30/9/06

 

 

Norwich Union II 2 Norwich City II 3

In what proved to be tight match and after reducing the arrears twice Union had to finally settle with nothing from the game.

Division 4NE

23/9/06

 

 

Norwich Union III 6 Holt 0

A good all round team performance which saw the hapless Holt defender on the line think he had Trig’s short corner strike covered 3 times – only to find it go right past him! First game back for Mr Rutledge and it was like he had never been away, Good running from Sinclair and Draeger to cover Rutledges tiring efforts. Solid performance from Ives covering at centre back with no passes to the oppositions cenre forward to report!

Division 5NE

30/9/06

 

 

Ipswich IV 2 Norwich Union IV 0

The scoreline doesn’t reflect the wonderfull team performance put in with Union giving everything they had and for 60 minutes preventing the opposition from scoring. It wasn’t just a defensive performance as several good chances were created with good passing and support of the player with the ball. Union could have taken the lead with a short corner stopped on the line and a couple of good opportunities in the second half when the score was 0-0. Despite going behind and Ipswich doubling their lead quickly Union refused to buckle and maintained the level of performance to the final whistle which was a great achievement as the team only had a bare 11. Union’s captain was very proud of every member of the team and they all deserve praise for their efforts. If Union maintain this level of performance many positive results will be achieved.

Division 2N

23/9/06

 

 

Sudbury 4 Norwich Union II 2

The 2nd team go off to a flying start in the new season taking a 1-0 lead failry early on in the game at sudbury with a goal from Richard Mills. Early pressure form NU saw the sudbury goal keeper pull numerous saves to keep the score 1-0 until a momentary lapse let sudbury back into the game equalising just before half time. The second half was much the same with NU applying most of the pressure and playing some good hockey. It came as a bit of a surprise then when sudbury took a 2-1 led……two goals from 2 shots( not bad odds). NU had several chances the most memorable a missed open goal opportunity after a strong drive into the circle from Rich Phillis put a ball across the front of the goal only for both on coming strikers to miss. Dave skinner equalised with a flick to go 2-2. A little bit a tiredness allowed Sudbury in for their 3rd and when Rich Mills was yellow carded for back chat sudbury finished off the 10 man NU to finish the game 4-2.

Division 1

30/9/06

 

 

Cambridge Nomads 4 Norwich Union 2

A good warm-up and positive attitude meant we started with a good level of confidence. A few formational issues had been talked through and we seemed more more clued up than before. As the game got underway it was clear that we were going to be much more competitive than last week.

 

So what happened? There were just too many silly mistakes made. Too many runs straight into defender’s sticks and a whole host of passes going astray. Cambridge did far better at taking their chances although Tom showed good persistence to take us into half time at 1-1. Things deteriorated in the second half with a number of instances of indiscipline compounding our problems. Cambridge took the score to 4-1 and heads dropped. A well hit short corner from Olly Browne brought us back into things a bit with ten to go, but the rest of the game played out instalemate. Union are now bottom of the table although only two teams have more than 3 points. There are still lots of positives in the way we defended but we have to hold the ball better.

 

Division 4NE

23/9/06

 

 

Watton 1 Norwich Union III 4

A cool finish from Mcquade opened the scoring. Watton equalised soon after following the parting of the red sea 🙂 After a tight first half the extra experience overcome the fitness of the opposition..Young Jones was looking lively on the wing…timing his return to full fitness to reclaim his spot in the first team alongside Edd. Excellent league debut from Rich Draeger who didn’t stop running all game.

Division 5NE

23/9/06

 

 

Norwich Union IV 1 North Walsham II 1

A disappointing first half with poor marking and discipline by Union allowed North Walham 2 to take a 1-0 lead.A reorganisation at halftime with Simon Parsons stabilising midfield and good marking and pressure allowed Union to get on top and score a deserved equaliser when Alan Quinton reacted quickest to a loose ball after the keeper had made a save to turn the ball in.Though more chances were created a winner couldn’t be found and the Walsham keeper also made a good save from Tom Banham.

Friendly

16/9/06

 

 

Norwich City 1 Norwich Union 3

A fine win against a depleted City side. 3-1 and many more chances. Scorers were Bell, Snelling and Croft all from open play. A yellow card for Rob Kay who was unable to let a poor umpiring decision rest made the latter stages of the second half pretty hard in the heat but anything short of a clear win would have been a travesty. There were good contributions all round the pitch and the subs were heavily used. Bring on the league!

Friendly

16/9/06

 

 

Norwich Union IV 0 Norwich City IV 2

Union lost 2-0 to a City team from the same division.The goals conceded were down to poor marking but there were some encouraging signs as Union had a lot of pressure and won at least ten short corners; at least two of which were only stopped by a defenders stick on the line.The second half saw Union the more dominant team though their goalkeeper did have to save a flick.

Friendly

9/9/06

 

 

Harleston Magpies V 2 Norwich Union IV 0

Union lost 2-0 to a team from a division above but there were some encouraging signs with a good second half performance.

 

Women’s

Division 1N

28/10/06

 

 

St. Ives 2 Norwich Union 3

Union went to St Ives knowing this was going to be a very tough game. However they rose to the challenge. A short corner in the first half saw union take the lead through man of the match Gemma Nicholls.

St Ives then equallised through a penalty flick.

The second half saw St Ives then take the lead, from a quick break. Union drew level from a well worked free hit, Marie James in the right place to put the ball in the back of the net. The winner came, 5 mins later when Nicholls got her second. Union then had 20 mins of play to hold out, as this game was end to end, but were rewarded with the win. This puts Union in second place in the league on goal difference.

Division 1N

21/10/06

 

 

Norwich Union 6 Cambridge University II 1

Union started this game off with a point to prove, and were rewarded with a quick goal after 5 mins, Claire Baker getting the goal. Union second came from a set piece, with Charlie Hemmant scoring.

The team were 3 up by half time, when Gemma Nicholls got on the end of a free hit.

Union continued the pressure in the second half and Nicholls got her second. Cambs, did then rally and were rewarded with a goal from a short. With 10 mins to go, Union changed their formation and this proved to be a good call as the extra pressure reward Union with 2 more goals, both scored by Fran Sutton.

Division 1N

14/10/06

 

 

Peterborough 3 Norwich Union 1

Union were very slow to start and were punished when peterborough scored their first goal from a break down of a short. This kick started their game and union for the rest of the half, were unlucky not to equalise.

At the start of the second half Union carried on where they had left off and were rewarded with a penatly flick, however they were not able to convert.

The pressure was finally rewarded when Fran Sutton, in her first game for the 1’s scored. Union however not keep hold of the lead and Peterborough scored 2 more late goals from set pieces.

Division 1N

7/10/06

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Watton 1

A very hard fought game with union unlucky to not get a point out of this. Baker coming closest by hitting the post.

Division 1N

30/9/06

 

 

Norwich City 1 Norwich Union 6

City started the game on the attack, but NU’s defence held firm. The game then became very even, but after 20 mins, NU got a quick break, from defence and good link up work from Sally Small and Claire Baker lead to Sally Small slotting the ball home. This first goal then lead to 2 very quick others, both from short corners, Gemma Nicholls scoring both.

 

The second half Union again let Norwich City attack and they were rewarded with their goal. This however spurred NU in to more attacking play, great work from Marie James, set Gemma Nicholls up with her hat trick. Marie was then rewarded with a goal of her own to make it 5. NU got their 6th, when Sally Small gave a pin point pass to Claire Baker, whom took the ball around the keeper and after a scramble on the line was able to jab the ball home.

 

This result puts NU at the top of the division on goal difference.

 

Division 1N

23/9/06

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Harleston Magpies II 1

NU started very brightly against Harleston 2’s in their first leaguematch and took the game to the opposition. Their play was rewardedwith a great taken goal from Ali Gunton after getting on the end of a great free hit from Sally Small. The team worked very hard but were unable to maintain the lead when Harleston struck with a great short corner strike. Union came out in the 2nd half having slightly changed their formation, which gave man of the match player Marie James much more space to work in mid field. Union continued to pressure Harleston and were unlucky to have a goal disallowed from a short corner. Harleston did have a couple of good attacks, but the defence held well, with Sam Jellif making some excellent saves in goal. The winner came 3 minutes from the end when Gemma Nics, intercepted

a back pass and cooly slotted the ball home to give Union the 3 points.

 

2005-2006 Season

Men’s

Division 5NE

12/11/05

 

 

Norwich Union IV 2 Harleston Magpies VI 2

Union started brightly against an ever demanding and always unpredictable Magpies side. Union’s passing was much improved over recent weeks and took an early lead from a short corner which was played to Alan Quinton who struck the ball across the keeper which went in the opposite corner. Magpies quickly re-grouped and ten minutes later had equalised, as the half drew to a close Magpies scored again on the very last minute of the half from a short corner. The second half saw Union equalise from Alan Quinton again, who kept his head and slotted the ball away during a tussle in the Magpies area. It was end to end stuff from then on and Union could have snatched the winner close to the end when Will Kirby collected a cross, beat the keeper, only to be denied by the oppositions defender who cleared the ball off the line.

Division 5NE

22/10/05

 

 

Norwich Union IV 11 Thetford 1

After turning up with only 8 players, Thetford put on a gutsy display in a game which they where always going to struggle. As a result Union soon had scored and went into the break 3-0 up. The second half was a goal riot for Union and unfortunately conceded a goal from a fast through ball which, from some rare defending, gave away a penalty flick which Thetford converted. Despite the result, Unions passing was not the same as the previous week and with a break next week must improve this for their next game.

Division 5NE

15/10/05

 

 

Bury IV 0 Norwich Union IV 2

Both sides started the game quite evenly with Bury looking the more likely to score with a better organised team for the first 20 minutes. Union started to string together clean passes and make attacks just before half-time. They stepped up a gear and carried this into the second half and were finally rewarded when Simon Garner scored from a short corner. 10 minutes later Union were on the attack again and building right up from their defence and 5 quick passes saw Alan Quinton cross the ball for Garner to turn his man and slot the ball away. Union continued to press forward and looking slightly fitter could have scored a third with some driving runs from Chris Harrison. Union have their season underway.

Division 2N

8/10/05

 

 

Norwich Union II 3 Cambridge University III 1

Norwich Union won their second match of the season 3 -1 against Cambridge University 3s. Cambridge University started quickly and were eventually rewarded with a well-worked passing move to score from a tight angle. Norwich Union quickly countered with pressure on both wings with Josh Mylne scoring from a crowded D to level before the break. In the second half, Norwich Union looked the stronger side with greater composure. Ricky Powley’s sliding tackles in midfield and penetration on the wings by Adie Kemp and Simon Parsons won Norwich Union a short corner which was struck cleanly by captain Rob Panter for the home side’s second. A direct drive from half way by Josh Mylne, before passing the ball in the D to Alex Brown who secured Union’s third goal with a well taken tap-in in front of goal.

Women’s

East Women’s League Division 1N

25/3/06

 

 

Norwich Union 1 Dereham 1

In a closely fought last game of the season, points were shared between the two local clubs. Union took the lead through Claire Baker, finishing off a well polished short corner routine. The game was evenly balanced with both teams creating chances and both being well saved by both defences. Dereham levelled the scores through Chrissie Maccrimmon half way through the second half.

East Women’s League Division 1N

18/3/06

 

 

Wisbech 6 Norwich Union 1

After two consecutive wins, Union travelled to the second place side in high spirits. Union started the brighter, scoring first, through a Gail Thomas short corner strike. Union were then pegged back and were unable to cope with some clincal passing and finishing from the Wisbech side.

East Women’s League Division 1N

11/3/06

 

 

Cambridge University 1 Norwich Union 3

In a game of huge significance at the bottom of the table, Norwich Union came out on top with some of their best hockey this season. The first half was fairly even, with both teams creating chances but both goalkeepers making good saves. The second half saw the University side take the lead. This kick-started a Union team who suddenly found themselves passing the ball confidently around, with player of the match, Becs Dungay, contributing effectively to this. Goals from Sally Small, Charlie Hemmant and Shelly Garrod, have put a 4 point gap between Union and Cambridge with two games to go.

East Women’s League Division 1N

4/3/06

 

 

Norwich Union 1 Norwich City 0

Union lifted themselves off the bottom of the table with a well earnt victory over local rivals Norwich City. Both teams battled hard on a snowy Saturday afternoon, but it was Union who took the advantage half way through the first half with a smart finish from Sally Small. Union increased the pressure and created many chances, many of which came through player of the match Kate Nichols, but could not increase their lead. With three games left to play, Union have it all to play for, starting with a crunch relegation battle against Cambridge Uni next week.

East Women’s League Division 1N

25/2/06

 

 

Ipswich II 2 Norwich Union 0

Union went to Ipswich in positive spirits after a couple of good results in the half-term friendlies. The first half saw lots of posession for both sides with neither making any clear cut chances. Union were unfortunate to lose Ally Gunton through a head injury in the first Half, but substitute Charlie Hemmant stepped into the role well. The second half became end to end with both sides going out for the win and good defence from Rachel Suckling kept them at bay for long periods. Union were unfortunate to concede two quick goals, but with four games left and a very tight table, Union have got all to play for.

East Women’s League Division 1N

4/2/06

 

 

Norwich Union 1 Sudbury 3

Union played top of the league Sudbury in high spirits after their win the week before. The game was very physical and Union deserved to be at level terms at half time through a Gail Thomas short corner strike. Union continued to push forward but were unfortunate to concede two clincal goals within minutes of each other to give the top of the table side three points. Union must take heart from a solid performance, especially in the midfield from player of the match Lynne Price.

East Women’s League Division 1N

28/1/06

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Braintree 1

On a bitterly cold day at Pinebanks, Union started brightly controlling the pace of the game. Braintree scored first with one of their few attacks but Union quickly equalised from a short corner, Shelly Garrod scoring on her return from a broken arm earlier in the season. Union contined to dominate the game, excellent work from player of the match Sally Small and Ally Gunton helped create many chances. Union scored their winner from a delightful short corner strike from Gail Thomas, a well deserved winner and three points.

East Women’s League Division 1N

21/1/06

 

 

Bourne 4 Norwich Union 1

In a game where the score line didn’t reflect the game, Union battled hard for little reward. A game which was end to end saw both sides create many chances, Bourne converting their’s to go 3-0 up. Union continued to play their game and scored a consolation goal through Kate Nichols after good interchanging play between her and Claire Baker. Bourne scored again quickly after the restart to make the final score 4-1.

East Women’s League Division 1N

14/1/06

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Watton 0

In this first league match of 2006, a closely contested match resulted in points being shared. Both teams started the game brightly with chances being created at both ends. Player of the Match, Goal keeper Sam Jelliff was in great form in helping earn Union their first clean sheet of the season and a well earnt point. It was a positive start to the second half of the season for Union, who saw some inspiring individual performances and generally an excellent all round team performance to keep out a hard working and physical Watton side.

East Women’s League Division 1N

3/12/05

 

 

Dereham 3 Norwich Union 1

Union were put under pressure from the off in their last match before Christmas and found themselves 1-0 down after 5 minutes and 2-0 down shortly after. This somehow kicked a bit of life inot the Union team and they then started moving the ball around well and retaining posseion for good periods of the game. They rewarded with a goal just before half time when Claire Baker rounded the keeper and passed to Sally Small to slot home. The second half was end to end with chances for both sides. Dereham managed to convert a further effort, with the score finishing 3-1.

East Women’s League Division 1N

26/11/05

 

 

Norwich Union 1 Wisbech 4

A very cold and blustery day at Pinebanks saw Norwich Union lose to a well organised Wisbech team. A solid first half from Union allowed them to go into half time level after some fantastic saves from player of the match Sam Jelliff. wisbech stepped up a gear in the second half and Union were unable to keep up. 4 quick goals in 20 mins put the game out of reach. Credit to the Union side who kept going forward and were rewarded with a consolation goal scored by Micheala Mcgarvey, after a well worked short corner. Union go into their last game before the Christmas break against Dereham next week.

East Women’s League Division 1N

19/11/05

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Cambridge University II 2

Union started the game in high spirits and were creating many chances in the opening half. They went ahead through Micheala Mcgarvey and a second was added before half time by Kate Nichols. Union sat deeper in the second half and the University team came at them, scoring twice to level the scores. Both teams had chances to win it, but none were converted, resulting in a share of the points.

East Women’s League Division 1N

12/11/05

 

 

Norwich City 1 Norwich Union 1

A closely contested game at Taverham ended with points being shared on Saturday. City did start the brightest and took the lead in the first half shortly after Union’s influential captain Shelly Garrod was taken to hospital with a broken arm. Great play from the defence, particlularly Susan Mylne, kept the score at 1-0 in the first half. Union showed great spirit in the second half and put City under pressure. They were rewarded when player of the match Sally Small grabbed Union an equaliser from a short corner. Either side could have gone on to win it, but a draw was a fair result.

East Women’s League Division 1N

5/11/05

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Ipswich II 1

Union picked up their fisrt win of the season with a fantastic team performance. Union started the game in a positive spirit enjoying good spells of posession. A fine move seeing the ball transfered form one side of the pitch to the other resulted in Natasha Blyth’s first goal for the first XI. Union continued to play well in the second half and rewarded with a second, through player of the match Gail Thomas from a fizzing short corner strike. Ipswich battled well and pulled one back to set up a tense finish, but Union held on determindley to earn the 3 points.

East Women’s League Division 1N

29/10/05

 

 

Sudbury 5 Norwich Union 0

Union travelled away to league leaders in high spirits after 2 solid draws in their previous league fixtures. Union had spells in the game where they played some flowing hockey. Some great work in midfield by Gail Thomas, Lynne Price and Hannah Austin created chances but unfortunately Union were unable to convert any of them.

East Women’s League Division 1N

15/10/05

 

 

Braintree 1 Norwich Union 1

Union travelled down to a sunny Braintree in high spirits and started the game positively, having the majority of the possesion. They deservedly took the lead through Player of the Match Shelly Garrod after a neat short corner routine. Union contiued to push forward but were unable convert any more before half time. The second half saw Braintree pressure a hard working Union side and were rewarded with an equaliser 5 minutes before full time.

East Women’s League Division 1N

8/10/05

 

 

Norwich Union 3 Bourne 3

Union played their first league game at home in high spirts after a difficult result in their previous fixture. Although Union started the brighter, creating chances, it was Bourne who scored two before the half time interval. Union showed great spirit and pulled one back

through Gail Thomas with a sweet short corner strike. Union then levelled through Shelly Garrod, again from a short corner. Bourne, didn’t give up and took the lead once more, only for Kate Nichols to bring Union level again with a very cool finish when one on one with the goal keeper. A special mention must also go to Hannah Ronney, a new recruit who had a great game in defence.

 

 

 

2004-2005 Season

Men’s

Division 2N

3/4/05

 

 

Ipswich III 3 Norwich Union II 4

Norwich Union Men’s 2nd team saved themselves from relegation from division2 N on Sunday with 10 seconds to go until the final whistle. Norwich Union needed 3 points from the match to move above Peterborough Athletic and out of the 4 team relegation zone. They achieved this with a well struck short corner by Rupert Snelling with only 10 seconds left in their final game oft he season.

 

Ipswich 3rds went 1 ahead in the 1st half with a quickly taken and deflected free hit. Norwich Union countered with 2 goals in quick succession; a tight-angled drilled shot from Neil Harrison followed by a well finished tap-in following a short corner by Oliver Browne.

 

In the second half, Neil Harrison made his tally 2 with another short corner routine; this one with a direct short rebounding off the keeper and into the roof of the net. Ipswich then scored 2 goals to level the game despite numerous and worthy athletic saves from goal keeper Robbie Whiting. Norwich Union fought hard to win a short corner in the final minute of the match which crawled over the the line following a deflection off an Ipswich defended.

 

Norwich Union now stay in division 2N but Peterborough Athletic, Ipswich 3,N orwich City 2 and Ipswich and East Suffolk are relegated.

Division 2N

12/3/05

 

 

Norwich Union II 6 Norwich City II 3

Norwich Union began their battle to pull out of the relegation zone by producing a competent performance against relegation and local rivals Norwich City 2s. Norwich Union opened the scoring with Alex Browne reactively pouncing on a goal keeper mistake in the goal mouth. Norwich City shortly equalised and then went 2-1 ahead after only 25 minutes. Norwich Union came back shortly before half time with a well struck second goal from Alex Browne. The second half was markedly one-sided with the striking partnership of brothers Alex and Olivier Browne scoring another 2 goals and midfielder Rob Panter blasting a well-struck shot from the top of the D to earn Norwich Union’s fifth. Norwich City came close to a forth with a goal mouth scramble, leading to a home side break and Richard Moulson for scoring the final goal of the match. Norwich Union are now 1 point behind safe Peterborough Athletic but with 2 games in hand. The game was a great local derby between 2 competitive teams.

Division 3NE

12/2/05

 

 

Harleston Magpies IV 0 Norwich Union III 1

A fantastic all round performance inflicted upon the home side and division leaders their only defeat of the season thus far. Magpies young side had much the better of the early part of the first half with their incisive attacking play putting the Union defence under pressure. The deadlock was broken midday through the second half when Alex Browne ran onto a through ball and despite an initial save by the advancing keeper maintained his composure to score. Despite concerted efforts by Magpies and atrocious weather conditions Union held on for the win. This put Union back on track after three successive defeats.

Division 3NE

29/1/05

 

 

Norwich Union III 2 Harleston Magpies III 3

Union found themselves with a mountain to climb when they conceded 3 early first half goals to a extremely competitive Magpies side. The home side snatched a goal back before half time and despite dominating the second half and scoring again, unfortunately could not find an equalizer.

Division 3NE

22/1/05

 

 

Lowestoft Town 4 Norwich Union III 2

A poor performance by an understrength Union team and the oppositions 12th player armed with whistle and cards saw them lose to the then bottom of the table side.

Division 3NE

15/1/05

 

 

Norwich Union III 5 Watton 3

Union got off to a flying start when Oliver Browne scored what could be the goal of the season. Unfortunately this was undone by some sloppy play by the home side which saw Watton go in a the end of the first half 2-1 up, much to the chagrin of Union’s goalkeeper! However, following a constructive half time team talk by Pete Thomas Union took the game by the scruff of the neck and with Thomas instrumental in pulling the strings from midfield Union didnt let Watton back into the game. Four goals in the second half by Browne, Moulson, Rutherford and Thomas secured the win with Watton getting their third on the stroke of full time.

Division 4NE

27/11/04

 

 

Norwich City IV 0 Norwich Union IV 1

 

A goal from Kirby was all that separated the two teams in a hard fought match.

Division 1

20/11/04

 

 

Redbridge & Ilford 0 Norwich Union 2

Union could easily have given up before this game even started after being reduced to a bare 11, and including players like York-Smith and Wolfe who have more recently played at a lower level. Instead they responded with what may be one of their more memorable performances.

 

Right from the start the tempo and passing game was just what was required. Control of the ball was obviously going to be important with no substitutes to call upon, and the team played some delightful passing moves (notably Taylor, Norman, Harrison and Snelling) in the opening exhanges.

 

Half-time arrived with neither side breaking through. The pattern of play had suggested that Union would look to control the ball whilst Redbridge looked to break. This all changed within the first few minutes of the second half when Harrison took advantage of some unexpected space in the circle and shot high to the keeper’s left. The home side, chasing the game, threw caution to the wind and forced the tiring Union into a rearguard action which stretched the game out. It did, however, create the sort of space that Jones and Green are capable of exploiting with their pace, and after these two combined nicely a simple tap in was presented to Wolfe, effectively ending the game.

 

Union were impressive in their attitude right from the warm-up, and fully deserved their win.

 

Division 4NE

16/10/04

 

 

Norwich Union IV 1 Dereham III 4

A well taken goal from Garner was all Union had to show against an in-form Dereham.

Division 4NE

2/10/04

 

 

Norwich Union IV 3 UEA III 1

Goals from Banham, Willson, Collison and a series of saves from Millar gave Union an excellent win in a competitive and entertaining game.

Division 3NE

2/10/04

 

 

Watton 0 Norwich Union III 1

After an even and scoreless first half, Norwich Union came back strongly in the second half. They made their advantage tell with a goal from Ed Smith. Watton came back strongly but were kept at bay by a great performance from Brooks in goal.

Division 4NE

25/9/04

 

 

Bury St Edmunds IV 2 Norwich Union IV 4

An excellent win for Union, with goals from Imad, Bingham, Kirby and Harrison sealing a very positive start to the new season and a new division.

Division 3NE

25/9/04

 

 

Norwich Union III 4 Bury St Edmunds III 1

An excellent start to the season for Norwich Union III with a 4-1 win over Bury III. A commanding midfield platform led to goals from Browne (2) , Bell and Older. Despite a late consolation goal for Bury, NU always looked in control.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Women’s

East Super League Premier Division

3/4/05

 

 

Norwich Union 3 Gravesend 1

Union finished the season with a well deserved win over Gravesend. ON a warm day, Union dominated the game scoring early on through Hayley Stammers after some good work from Gemma Nicholls. Union continued to press forward but Gravesend equalised through a penalty flick just before half time.

Union pressed on in the second half and scored through Gail Thomas – a stunning short corner strike. An excellent through ball from Gemma Nicholls put Harriet Maule through to slot the ball home for Union’s third. A great team performance!

East Super League Premier Division

19/3/05

 

 

Cambridge University 1 Norwich Union 0

Despite some excellent defensive work from Sarah Wagstaff and Anne Taylor, Cambridge University took the lead late in the second half. Tireless running from Gemma Nichols in the midfield created chances which, unfortunately Union couldn’t convert.

East Super League Premier Division

12/3/05

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Chelmsford II 4

Union battled hard against a hard working Chelmsford side in this Premier Division fixture. Union started well and were unlucky to go one nil down in the first half. Union continues to fight and through player of the match Gemma Nichols created short corners, but Chelmsford defended well. As Union continued to push forward, Chelmsford scored on counter attacks. With 2 matches to go Union still have all to play for as they fight to regain premier league status.

East Super League Premier Division

5/3/05

 

 

Cambridge City 6 Norwich Union 3

Gemma Nicholls (2) and Kate Nichols scored for Union in an end to end game at Cambridge. On a very cold day Union started brightly and opened the scoring but were soon pegged back by a determined Cambridge side. Union never gave up and must take a lot of positives into the final 3 games of the season.

East Super League Premier Division

12/2/05

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Canterbury II 2

Union started the game slowly and were unlucky to see two goals conceded in the first 20 mins, one coming from a short corner. Union’s character became evident and they picked themsleves up to create chances and hold onto posession for long periods of the game and frustrate a hard working Canterbury side.

Player of the match Angela Murgatroyd had an outstanding game in the heart of Union’s defence, in addition to linking play up to attacking opportunites.

East Super League Premier Division

5/2/05

 

 

Harleston II 0 Norwich Union 1

Norwich Union grabbed three more points against local rivals Harleston in a bid to escape relegation. Union are now level on points with teams ahead of them with 5 games of the season left to play.

 

Union started the game in high spirits and were passing the ball well. As a team Union looked solid and were able to create chances. A hard working Kate Nichols broke the deadlock just before half time with a great individual effort. As Harleston resorted to a long ball game, Union’s defence kept their cool, especially Rachel Matthews, to keep the Harleston attack out. Another great team display from Union.

East Super League Premier Division

29/1/05

 

 

Norwich Union 3 Dereham 1

Norwich Union started the local derby on the same number of points but one place above their opposition. Union dominated the opening play creating chances through Gemma Nicholls. Dereham had a goal disallowed for dangerous play meaning the half time score was 0-0.

Union pushed forward in the second half and got the deserved breakthrough, with a well placed strike from Gemma Nicholls. Some great defensive play from Rachel Suckling and Anne Taylor kept Dereham at bay, while at the other end, Harriet Maule scored her first goal for the 1st XI. Kate Nichols added a well earnt third goal. Dereham’s Caroline Watson scored a late consolation Penalty Flick for the visitors. Local derbies keep coming for Union as they face Magpies II’s next weekend in another crucial match.

East Super League Premier Division

22/1/05

 

 

Crostyx 2 Norwich Union 1

 

Union, after a weeks break, started the game brightly creating chances which were well coped with by the Crostyx keeper. Anne Taylor, who was solid in Union’s goal, alos made some great saves, ensuring the sides stayed level at half time. Crostyx started the second half brightly and scored two quick goals. Union, to their credit, kept battling on, and pulled one back. A pin point cross from Gail Thomas was clincally finished by Hannah Austin. Union must take positives from this game into next weeks home crucial clash with Dereham.

East Super League Premier Division

8/1/05

 

 

Maidstone 5 Norwich Union 0

Norwich Union travelled down to a blustery Maidstone to eventually come home with no points. Union sarted the brighter of the 2 team, creating chances through Harri Maule, Hannah Austin and Kate Nichols, but were unfortunate to see none of them converted. Maidstone proved clinical on their finishing and were 3-0 up at half time. Union continued to pressure in the second half, with some great individual work from Gemma Nicholls but couldn’t break the Maidstone defense.

East Super League Premier Division

11/12/04

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Ipswich II 2

Union went one nil down very early on in their last game before the festivebreak. The goal came against the run of play and it was no surprise when Union equaised through Shelly Garrod. Unfortunately Ipswich replied quickly and went into half time 2-1 up. Union dominated the second half, having possesion for long periods of the game and got their equaliser through Gail Thomas: an unstoppable short corner strike.

East Super League Premier Division

4/12/04

 

 

Norwich Union 1 Cambridge University 1

Union started the match brightly playing some of their best hockey, passing and retaining posession for long periods of the game. They welcomed back vice captain Kate Nichols from injury, who created many chances. Union deservedly went in front through Shelly Garrod with a well take effort just before half time. The second half saw much of the same from Union but were unfortunate not to increase their lead. Cambridge battled on and after a late barrage of short corners and got their equaliser

East Super League Premier Division

28/11/04

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Sevenoaks 3

In Union’s second match of the weekend Union again started off positvely but went 1-0 down early on. A spirited display saw some fine passing moves creating chances which were well saved. A great display in goal by Union’s Anne Taylor kept the score to 1-0 at half time. The second half saw Sevenokas step up the pressure and score 2 further gaols, one a very well taken short corner. Union must take heart from a peformance which did not reflect in the score line.

East Super League Premier Division

27/11/04

 

 

Chelmsford 4 Norwich Union 0

Union travelled to Chelmsford with high hopes of adding more points to their league tally. They started off brightly with some influential play from Hannah Austin in the centre of midfield creating a few chances which werte well saved by the Chelmsford keeper. Union took their foot off the predal and let a couple of quick goals in. After the break union pushed forward and were unlucky not to score through Shelly Garrod and Claire Baker but were caught on the break to allow 2 break away goals.

East Super League Premier Division

20/11/04

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Cambridge City 3

Union faced Cambridge City on a bitterly cold day at Pinebanks in the East Premier League. Cambridge started brightly and were 2-0 up at the half time interval. Union created few chances, through some good work in midfield by Hannah Austin, which were blocked by a well organised defence. Cambridge caught Union on the break to add a third. Union face a double header next weekend, away at Chelmesford on Saturday and at home to Sevenoaks (12pm) on Sunday.

East Super League Premier Division

13/11/04

 

 

Gravesend 3 Norwich Union 1

Union failed to get going in this Premier Division Match at Gravesend. The home side started brightly and found themselves 2-0 up before Lizzie Willimott coverted a penalty flick for Union to give some hope in the second half. Kath Mares had an outstanding game in the defence of NU but could do nothing about Gravesend extending their lead late on to give Union litttle chance of a comeback.

East Super League Premier Division

30/10/04

 

 

Norwich Union 1 Harleston II 0

Union faced Haleston II’s in the second local derby in as many weeks. The first half finished goalless after both teams had their chances with Kim Love in the Harleston goal pulling off some fine saves. The second half saw much of the same, but NU managed to find the winner 4 minutes from time after some excellent work from Kate Nichols saw player of the match Gemma Nicholls putting the ball in the back of the net.

East Super League Premier Division

2/10/04

 

 

Maidstone 5 Norwich Union 3

The scopreline does not reflect the tightly contested game between the 2 promoted teams into the East Premiership. Maidstone took an early lead which was equalised by an extremely well taken dive from Claire Baker. Maidstone took the score to 2-1 through some good counter attacking play but could not hold the lead when first a well worked short corner was followed up again by Claire Baker to bring the scores level, and then immediately from the restart an accurate pass from Gail Thomas was slotted in by Hannah Austin to put the home team 3-2 up. Union then saw themselves down to ten players and Maidstone were able to capitalise and take 2 more goals and three points, much to the disappointment of Norwich Union. Good performances were put in by Ann Taylor, Hannah Austin and Gemma Nicholls.

East Super League Premier Division

25/9/04

 

 

Ipswich II 4 Norwich Union 3

Norwich Union started life in the Printwise Premier Super League with a 4-3 defeat at the hands of Ipswich II. Failure to capitalise on good approach play and found themselves facing a 4-1 (Gail Thomas) deficit late in the game. However a late rally saw Union pull back two more goals (Shelly Garrod & Gemma Nicholls).

EH Cup Round One

26/9/04

 

 

Broxbourne 1 Norwich Union 2

A slow start saw Union concede an early goal. However they raised their game to score a deserved equaliser (Shelly Garrod) on the stroke of half time. An excellently worked short corner resulted in a fine strike to put Union deservedly in front (Claire Baker) and see Union safely through to the second round draw.

 

 

2003-2004 Season

Men’s

Division 1

20/3/04

 

 

Norwich Union 4 Cambridgeshire Nomads 3

A storming second half performance by Norwich Union saw them score three unaswered goals and turn the tide after at one point being three nil down. The result keeps them in with a chance of the third and final promotion spot in this close Division as it goes into the final regular weekend of fixtures. Unions scorers were Josh Mylne 2, Ben Miles and captain Neil Harrison.

Division 3NE

6/3/04

 

 

Norwich Union III 2 Lowestoft Railway 1

Norwich Union III produced a determined display to record a rare win, by 2-1 against Lowestoft Railway. After a goalless first half, in which both Hant and Brooks were unlucky not to score, Union opened the scoring through a good finish by Phil York-Smith. Railway continued to press and equalised when a short corner wasn’t successfully cleared. With time running out, Union were awarded a flick, which Bruce McQuade converted.

Division 1

6/3/04

 

 

Norwich Union 3 Havering 3

A missed penalty flick at the death denied Norwich Union, at one point 3-1 down, a memorable victory over division leaders Havering. Unions scorers were Mylne, Snelling and Green.

Division 3NE

6/12/03

 

 

Norwich Union III 1 Bury St. Edmunds III 3

The first half of this match saw a fairly even contest with Bury taking the lead about mid way through. Their goal was somewhat scrappy as Union were caught napping following what they believed was foul in their area. Union battled well in midfield but were unable to take their chances. Early in the second half Bury scored from a short corner afrer a controversial umpiring decsion. This stung Union into a reply with Rutledge bulldozing his way into the area and placing his shot wide of the Bury keeper. Unfortunately for Union they then conceded another goal after some careless work in defence and this time there was no way back as Bury were able to contain the game quite comfortably.

Division 3NE

29/11/03

 

 

Broadland 6 Norwich Union III 1

At the start of this match the sides were fairly evenly matched in terms of possession and it seemed as though it was likely to be a close contest. Broadland scored their first goal about mid way through the first half after a fairly gentle shot from the right side of the D was deflected past the man on the line. Union replied almost immediately with a stunning shot from Browne fizzing into the top corner of the Broadland goal. Broadland then increased their goal tally scoring from a short corner and then from open play after Union gave away possession too easily and failed to make crucial tackles in defence. Any hopes Union might have had were crushed early in the second half when Broadland scored from another well struck short corner. After this Union heads dropped and Broadland dominated the game scoring their fifth goal with some slick forward play. To complete a miserable afternoon for Union they scored an own goal in the dying minutes following a goalmouth scramble. An easy game for Broadland and one, which Union must learn from.

Division 1

1/11/03

 

 

Cambridge University II 2 Norwich Union 1

Norwich Union faced a fit University side, who passed the ball well, gaining a lot of early possession. Union defended well however and were unlucky when a penalty stroke was awarded against them after a scamble in the D led to the ball hitting a foot. Although Cambridge converted this, it acted as a spark to Norwich, who came in to the match more and created a couple of good chances. Union fought hard and were rewarded late in the second half when Miles and Mylne combined to level the scores. The away side then failed to hold on to the ball, allowing Cambridge a last minute short corner which was forced over the line to give the University side all 3 points, and sending Norwich home with a lot to think about.

Division 3NE

25/10/03

 

 

Bury St. Edmunds III 0 Norwich Union II 3

Bury started the brighter of the two sides, but a traditionally solid defensive performance from Union allowed the visitors to exert control overall. Midfield pressure and good work up front won a series of short corners which allowed NU to open the scoring through Parsons. The final score reflected the difference between the finishing of the two sides, with Kemp, Wolfe (2) and Simmonds adding to the tally, despite Norwich at one point being down to nine men following yellow cards to both Simmonds and Wilkinson.

Division 1

25/10/03

 

 

Norwich Union 5 Shefford & Sandy 2

Norwich Union were disappointed not to take more advantage of relatively weak opposition, as they failed to convert chances into goals at home. It was Union who took the lead through a Norman short corner strike which beat the keeper for pace, but Shefford were allowed back into the game after poor marking gave the opposition too much time and a mishit shot beat the Norwich keeper. The home side were then awarded a penalty after the ball struck a defenders foot on the goalline, which Norman converted, and it looked as though Union would walk away with the match. Poor positional play allowed a breakaway to out number the Norwich defenders and Shefford equalised as a shot was defelected in off a defender. This lead to sustained pressure with Snelling and Taylor scoring from short corners. The level dropped in the second half and although Snelling added his second, poor finishing meant the score remained 5-2.

Division 5NE

25/10/03

 

 

UEA III 1 Norwich Union IV 2

Goals at either end of the game by Gribben & Birch gave Union their first win of the season. UEA pressed hard between goals but excellent defending limited them to just one reply.

Division 3NE

25/10/03

 

 

Norwich Union III 2 Dereham II 2

A game of which swung several times saw NU start brightly and take a deserved lead about halfway through the first half after a goalmouth scramble. Dereham responded by passing the ball much more fluently and putting together some dangerous counter attacks. Their enterprise was rewarded when they scored from a short corner after a period of sustained pressure on the NU defence. This pressure continued and NU continued to give the ball away too cheaply so it was not surpising when Dereham increased their lead deflecting the ball in from close range following a short corner.

 

The second goal actually caused NU to relax a little and regain their shape and passing. They equalised with about a quarter of the game left with a deft finish after a clever through ball. The continued to move the ball well and were disappointed not to win after a late goal was disallowed.

 

Division 3NE

18/10/03

 

 

Norwich Union II 3 Broadland 2

An untidy game overall, characterised by lots of turnover of possession. Union started the better of the 2 sides and had a number of chances, which Broadland did well to prevent. The deadlock was broken when a penalty stroke was converted by Mares just before half-time. The second half saw Broadland play much stronger hockey, and they duly scored 2 quick goals to take the advantage. Union finally got back to grips with the game, and Mares equalised after some nice individual play. This was followed not long after by another penalty stroke, this time converted by Wolfe.

Division 1

18/10/03

 

 

Redbridge and Ilford 2 Norwich Union 4

Norwich Union produced a battling display to take all three points in Redbridge. The home side started quickly utilising some fancy skills to immediately win several short corners, all defended well by Union, before a Norwich breakaway led to a short corner at the other end. A Snelling flick flew into the net to give Union the lead, against the run of play. A lot of pressure was applied but Redbridge were unable to convert any chances. The start of the second half saw Norwich play some good counter attacking hockey and a second short corner led to another goal from Norman. The highlight of the game followed as the ball was moved from one end of the pitch to the other with fast passes before Mylne finished with a first time deflection to lead 3-0. Redbridge showed some life, clawing back two goals before Green finished the game with a shot through a crowd of players.

Division 3NE

18/10/03

 

 

UEA II 2 Norwich Union III 3

The first half of this game was dominated by N.U who opened the scoring about mid way through bundling the ball in following a short corner. Despite constant pressure they were unable to add to this and at half time were just one goal up. UEA by contrast rarely threatended and it looked to be an easy afternoon for the NU defence. At the start of the second half NU were caught napping by a controversial UEA free hit which was pushed in from short range. This equaliser lifted UEA’s spirits and they began to find their rhythm particularly in mid field. They converted this pressure into a goal from a short corner the shot being drilled into the inside of the post. NU surprised at finding themselves a goal down fought back well and were rewarded for some more aventurous play when York Smith flicked in from the left side after an assist from McQuade. Then with left than five minutes to go the evergreen Palmer out paced the UEA defence to score with a push past the left hand side of the onrushing UEA keepe. NU defended resolutely for the remaining few minutes to record thier first win of the season.

Division 1

11/10/03

 

 

Norwich Union 6 Ipswich & East Suffolk 0

A strong start from Norwich Union saw them dominate against local opponents IES. Norwich took the lead after a clever deflection from Mylne looped over the Ipswich Keeper. This was quickly added to by goals from Green, Norman and Miles to give Union a comfortable lead after only fifteen minutes. With the game effectively over Norwich started to pass the ball well, testing the Ipswich defence without adding to the scoreline. IES came out with more resolve from their half time talk, but once Green increased his tally all resistance left, and Norwich were able to control the game. The woodwork was tested on several occasions and a second Norman strike disallowed before Taylor finally scored the sixth. This was a good performance after the disappointment of the previous week.

Division 1

4/10/03

 

 

Luton Town 2 Norwich Union 1

Norwich Union suffered their first loss of the season away to Luton Town. Luton started brightly and put immediate pressure on Union who were slow to get going. They were rewarded when the ball struck a foot in the D and the umpire awarded a penalty stroke, which was duely converted. A second penalty was conceeded midway through the half after a clumsy tackle on Luton’s attacker. This left Norwich 0-2 down at half time. After the break Union looked much more competitive and it wasn’t long until they were on the score board. A mazy run from David Foxall beat 6 Luton defenders and committed the keeper before Alex Browne tapped in to score. Norwich continued to apply pressure for the rest of the half, but a fine performance from the Luton keeper allowed the home side to hang on and take the points.

Division 1

27/9/03

 

 

Norwich Union 7 Berkhamsted 0

Norwich Union made an excellent start to their Div 1 campaign, comfortably beating their London opponents. Although the first half was close it was Union who had the bulk of the possession, but were unable to convert their dominance into goals. A Mylne goal allowed a small amount of comfort at half time, but much more was demanded. The response was immediate, with Mylne claiming a second, quickly followed by a devasting strike from Norman. More pressure followed and it wasn’t long before Mylne achieved his hatrick and Browne, Dickenson and Green all added to the tally. This excellent result leaves Union high up the table after the first round of matches, providing encouragement for the coming season.

 

 

Women’s

East Premier Division 1

3/4/04

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Bishop Stortford 2

Union looked a little weary in this, their final game of the season. Bishop Stortford, battling to avoid relegation, started much the brighter and took an early deserved lead. Union Captain Hannah Austin and Coach Robert Wagstaff had some stern words at half-time, and the Team responded magnificently, equalising early on through short corner expert Gail Thomas. Union continued to pile on the pressure and were rewarded with a second following good work from Kate Nichols, who found Shelly Garrod who struck a magnificent strike from an acute angle. With just a minute to go, Bishop Stortford, who never gave up battling, secured a point with a fine effort, ensuring they continue to play hockey in Division One East next season.

Norfolk Premier Division

3/4/04

 

 

Norwich Union II 8 North Walsham 1

Union played their last rearranged game of the season at home to North Walsham and rounded of the season with a 8-1 victory. Union had done their home work on Walsham and knew what to expect. From the off Union pressed Walsham back into the area, passing the ball from let to right, probing the opposition’s area, looking for the final ball to score. Minutes into the half Union’s dominance payed off,with good passing and movement off the ball opening up Walsham’s defence, and allowing Union to open the scoring. Union kept up the momentum and finished the half 6-1 up, and still hungry for more . Union added two more goals in the second half , one from a flick taken by Captain Sally Small and the other from open play. Union midfielder Becks Dungay was sent off for ten minuets towards the end of the game, but this had no effect on the final score. Union’s Scorer’s – Captain Sally Small 4, Nat Beal 1, Lynn Price 1, Becks Dungay 1, Hayley Stammers 1. Union’s Player of the match was Beck’s Dungay.

East Premier Division 1

27/3/04

 

 

Chelmsford 1 Norwich Union 1

After securing promotion last week Union came into this game playing for pride and to boost their points tally. Chelmsford, however were battling to secure the 3rd place promotion place. Union started well and forced a number of short corners in the first half – Gail Thomas unlucky with one effort which was adjudged to be too high. Union also earnt a flick through some good play, however Union Captain Hannah Austin failed to convert. The second half saw Chelmsford start to exert more pressure and they too were awarded a flick, however this was brilliantly saved by Player of the Match Sam Jelliff. A quick break away move saw Unions Gemma Nicholls slot an excellent pass through to Shelly Garrod, who finished coolly through the keepers legs. The lead was short lived however, with Chelmsford coming back from a short corner. A far result in a hard battling game.

Norfolk Premier Division

27/3/04

 

 

Norwich Union II 3 Pelican 2

Union played at home to Pelicans, and came away with another three points. Union’s Captain Sally Small opened the scoring in the first few minuets, from a cross from Hayley Stammers, which allowed Small to rattle the back board. Union controlled the first half, until minuets before half time Pelicans equalised ending the half all square. The second half saw Union gain confidence and pass the ball around fluently. Their second goal came from Becks Dungay to put Union back in front.Union then added a third with a goal by Nat Beal. Pelicans fought back and scored their second, but time was not on their side, as Union earned another three points, and played some of their best hockey of the season. Union’s Player of the match was the whole Team.

Norfolk Premier Division

20/3/04

 

 

Norwich Union II 6 Sprowston 1

Union played at home to Sprowston, and came away with the three points. Union strove from the off, and although they were restricted to a one nil lead at half time (goal Hayley Stammers allegedly) their efforts were rewarded in the second half as great ball control and positioning enabled goals to flow. Hayley Stammers scored the second goal early in the second half, closely followed by a goal from Bex Dungay. Union were now on a roll, with all member of the team contributing . Good interplay saw Hayley Stammers score two more goals to make her total four, whilst shortly after Sprowston scored a consolation goal from an acute angle. Just before the end, Nat Beal was fouled in the area and awarded a flick, which she converted. Union’s Player of the match was Hayley Stummers.

East Premier Division 1

20/3/04

 

 

Norwich Union 6 Peterborough 0

Norwich Union gained promotion into the East League Premier Division with a emphatic team performance beating Peterborough 6-0 at Pinebanks.Gemma Nicholls opened the scoring in the first half with a reverse stick shot effort beating the keeper at the far post. Claire Baker added a second just before half time, with a devastating shot from the edge of the area assisted by Sam Jelliff. The second half saw NU step up another level with Kate Nichols scoring the third by cooling taking the ball round the keeper and slotting into an empty net. Gail Thomas got Unions fourth from another fluid short corner move, watched safely in by Captain Hannah Austin. Shelly Garrod added a fifth with a sweeping effort giving the keeper no chance. The scoring rout was completed by Lizzie Willimott after more good work from Hannah Austin.Unions team ethic was outstanding in a match which meant so much to all involved.

East Premier Division 1

13/3/04

 

 

Old Loughtonians 0 Norwich Union 0

Union continue to work themselves back into form with another vital point away from home at Old Loughtonians. Rachel Suckling had an excellent game in the Union defence and Union were pleased to have Lizzie Willimott back in the heart of midfield. Union dominated the first half and had a good effort from Gail Thomas cleared off the line. Rachel Miles was again Player of the Match with some fine work in midfield. The second half was more even with Sam Jelliff making some good saves in the Union goal to earn a point, leaving it all to play for in the last 3 games.

Norfolk Premier Division

13/3/04

 

 

Harleston Magpies III 3 Norwich Union II 4

Union played away to Magpies again, but this time we came away with a well deserved win.Magpies came out determind to beat Union, and had some chances in the first half, running the ball up the wings and crossing in to the defensive d. However, Union’s defence held strong .Union fought and battled and were rewarded with a goal by Nat Beal, followed byone from Sally Small. 5 minutes before half time Union’s central defender Sarah Wagstaff suffered a nasty head wound, and was conveyed to hospital.The second half saw Magpies scoring three goals on the break, Union responded with goals by Bex Dungay and Sarah Flatt. Union’s play and detemination showed in this game and were rewarded with their first win of 2004 Union’s player of the match was defender Sally Bassett.

East Premier Division 1

6/3/04

 

 

Norwich Union 1 St. Ives 1

Despite dominating the game, Union had to settle for a point in this tough encounter at Pinebanks. St Ives always looked dangerous on the break and were rewarded with a goal from a penalty flick midway through the first half. Union continued to pile on the pressure, and had a series of short corners, but failed to convert. The second half saw a similar pattern of play, with Union hitting the post and testing the St Ives Keeper. Finally Union were rewarded with a goal from Player of the Match Rachel Miles, whose form gets better and better. Sam Jelliff made an important save mid way through the second half to ensure Union took a point from a game where they probably deserved all three.

Norfolk Premier Division

6/3/04

 

 

Harleston Colts 3 Norwich Union II 1

Union played away to Magpies Colts on a overcast Saturday morning on their water based pitch. Magpies came out on top in the first half, but were unable to score due to Union’s defence, and goal keeper Manda Shinn.Union had chances theirselves from a couple of corners but alas at half time it remained goalless for both teams. Union found themselves under pressure from the whistle in the second half, but a break down in Magpies’ attack saw a long ball through to Hayley Stummer who ran into the Magpies defensive circle, with only the keeper to beat, but was fouled by defender and Union were awarded a flick.The resulting penalty flick was dispatched into the top right hand corner. Union were unable to hold on to their lead as five minutes later, Magpies equalised. to make it all square. Play began to open up, as Magpies scored their second. Their third and final goal came as Magpies played a through ball into the top right hand side of the defensive corner.Union’s keeper came out and pushed the player wide, and retreated back to her goal while the Magpie player lifted the ball over the keeper’s head in to the top corner.Magpies were denied two goals from Union’s Sarah Wagstaff on the goal line. Union will learn from this game and come out stronger next and their player of the match was Manda Shinn,

East Premier Division 1

28/2/04

 

 

Thurrock 2 Norwich Union 2

Union started this important top of the table clash in fine fashion, putting Thurrock under severe pressure for most of the first half. Union found some of their best passing form, and forced a series of short corners, one of which was superbly despatched by Gail Thomas for Unions first goal. The second half saw Thurrock start to exert more pressure on Union, whose Player of the Match, Hazel Medler made some outstanding tackles. A second goal came following good build up work involving Gemma Nicholls and Rachel Miles, who fired the ball in to the D for Hannah Austin to see the ball home. Thurrock, however, then had a good spell and pegged Union back with two late goals. Union can only be heartened by a fine team performance, which deserved all 3 points.

Friendly

21/2/04

 

 

Norwich Union II 5 Norwich City II 1

A well deserved victory by Norwich Union, who piled on the pressure from the start with some slick passing and quick breaks from defence. Anne Taylor had a great game in goal, with Rowan and Sara W having great games in the defence.

East Premier Division 1

21/2/04

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Anchorians 1

Anchorians battled hard in this tightly fought game at Pinebanks and took an early lead somewhat against the run of play. Despite unsettling them, Union showed some character and forced an equaliser from a short corner, neatly finished by the hard working Rachel Miles. After the break Union settled and put a lot of pressure on Anchorians without forcing too many clear cut chances, however their hard work and persistance payed off, forcing another short corner late on which was well despatched by Gemma Nicholls. Shelly Garrod Unions’ player of the match typified Unions work rate and desire. An excellent and vital 3 points for Union in what was a very tough encounter.

East Premier Division 1

14/2/04

 

 

Maidstone 5 Norwich Union 1

Union started the brighter of the two teams and forced a couple of early short corners which concerned the league leaders, however Maidstone were the team to make their chances count scoring two before the break. Union again came out the brighter after the break, however, once again Maidstone made their chances count with two further clinical strikes. Following excellent work on the left, Gemma Nicolls squared the ball for Shelly Garrod who converted neatly to pull one back for Union. A late penalty flick completed the scoring for Maidstone, largely thanks to some fine work in the Union goal from Ann Taylor. Union now have to quickly get back to winning ways if they are to continue to press for promotion in this very tight league.

Norfolk Division 2

7/2/04

 

 

Norwich Union III 1 Thetford 1

Norwich Union Ladies played Thetford on 7/02/04 with the score being 1-1. Both teams played well with goal keeper Ann Taylor for Norwich Union making good saves. Rosie Lingham scored the first goal of the match for Thetford. Thetford gave Norwich Union a good game and Jo Tilson scored for Norwich Union from a short corner in the second half to equalise. Susan Lansdell came close to scoring the winning goal for Norwich Union. Good defending by Sally Leak and player of the match goes to Jo Tilson.

 

East Premier Division 1

7/2/04

 

 

Norwich Union 1 St Albans 1

In windy conditions at Pinebanks, Norwich Union started the brighter of the two teams, however it was in-form St Albans who opened the scoring. With Union only half clearing a short corner, this was scrambled in at the far post. Union kept their shape and forced a couple of short corners themselves, Gail Thomas striking an excellent shot to level the score. The second half was end to end, with Union having to defend well with Rachel Clarke and Sam Jelliff making noteable contributions. A point a piece was probably a fair result in difficult conditions. Union now look forward to an away tie with league leaders Maidstone.

Norfolk Premier Division

7/2/04

 

 

Dereham II 4 Norwich Union II 0

Union played away to Dereham and looked to repeat the 3-0 home win earlier in the season. Dereham began strongly, dominating the first half,as Union were left defending and unable to get the ball out of their own half. Dereham had a large amount of corners from which one goal was scored, and the other from open play.just before half time a Union own goal saw Dereham 3-0 up. Union’s belief and confidence showed in the second half as we played to the ability that we know we can play.Union dominated the second half, with good positive running and hard work which pushed Dereham back. A goal was scored in the second half, an own goal by union which gifted Dereham a 4-0 win. Player of the match – Sally Bassett.

East Premier Division 1

24/1/04

 

 

Broxbourne 0 Norwich Union 3

Union maintained the pressure at the top of Division One with a battling victory away to Broxbourne. Union started brightly with some good attacks and finally broke down the Broxbourne defence following a good attack, clinically finished by Kate Nichols. Broxbourne came back into the game well and forced a penatly flick, which they put wide and a series of short corners. The Union defence however battled hard and then broke quickly and scored a well taken goal against the run of play from Claire Baker. This settled any lingering nerves, with Union then putting on the pressure and forcing a third through Lizzie Willimott. Unions midfield forced this victory through hard work and determination, typified by player of the match Rachel Miles.

Norfolk Premier Division

24/1/04

 

 

Evergreens 3 Norwich Union II 1

Union played away to Evergreens in Holt on a Winter’s morning. From the start Union pressed Evergreens back into their own half of the field, but lost possession and Evergreens counter attacked, worked a two on one on the keeper and scored. Union work rate increased in the second half, winning a series of corners and grabbed a goal by a well struck hit from Bex Dungay. However, they were unable to maintain the same level of performance and ultimately lost the game 3 -1. Union have lost their winning way, and confidence has dropped in the last few weeks. One good performance and we can turn our frustration in to goals. Player of the match, Kate Urwin.

Womens Trophy Round Four

18/1/04

 

 

Eastcote 3 Norwich Union 0

Union matched this tough Middlesex Team in a tight first half, with neither team creating too many chances. In the 2nd half Eastcote had a clinical 10 minute spell when they put together some sharp moves and finished well, scoring 3 good goals. Union composed themselves and had a good spell of their own, with Kate Nicols coming close, however the Eastcote keeper made some excellent saves. Union can take heart from a decent cup run, but can now concentrate on their league campaign.

East Premier Division 1

17/1/04

 

 

Norwich Union 6 Wisbech 1

In appalling conditions at Pinebanks, Norwich Union started the second half of their league campaign in style. An early goal from Claire Baker opened proceedings before Wisbech came back strongly from a well taken short corner. Two more well taken strikes from the impressive Claire Baker made it 3 – 1 by half-time and saw her complete a great first half hatrick. The second half saw Union take control of the game, with yet another goal from Player of the Match Baker, followed by further goals by Kate Nichols and Hannah Austin. An excellent team performance, given the conditions, and one to provide great encouragement for the rest of the season.

Norfolk Premier Division

17/1/04

 

 

Yarmouth 2 Norwich Union II 1

Union played away to Yarmouth on a wet and chilli afternoon. From the off Union pressured Yarmouth back into their 25, where a mishit from the Yarmouth 16 yard line by their centre back saw Unions Nat Beal react first to pounce and slip the ball past the keeper for the opening goal. Union’s pressure continued for a further 20 minuets then Yarmouth woke up and pressured Unions goal, with half a dozen corners, with a disallowed goal. Union’s possession was below par in the second half, with only a few corners, and not much pressure on the Yarmouth defence. Unions defence had a busy second half, defending a large amount of corners, from which Yarmouth’s opening goal came, inside the right hand post.a little later they got their second. Shortly after Yarmouth were awarded a flick, from which Keeper Amanda Shinn saved. The game finished 2-1 to Yarmouth, Union now need to pick themselves up, and learn from this game. Player of the match, Amanda shinn.

Friendly

10/1/04

 

 

Norwich Union 6 Bury St. Edmunds 4

After the Christmas break, NU were looking to a poitive start to the second half of the season with a friendly against Bury. They were not disappointed with 3 very good first half goals – two from open play (Claire Baker and Lizzie Willimott) and a well taken short corner effort from Rachel Miles. The second half proved to be more of an end to end game with Miles getting her second (replica of her first!) before Bury scoring 3 quick goals to reduce the deficit. Union increased their lead through another short corner clincally finished by Kate Nichols. Bury pulled another back to make it 5-4, Union finished the game off strongly with Baker getting her second.

Friendly

10/1/04

 

 

Norwich Union II 0 Norwich City II 1

Norwich Union lost the opening years league game at home against Norwich city II. The first half was evenly match until City found the back of the net 10 minutes before time. The second saw Union win a large amount of possession, and corners were flowing, but we could not find the equaliser. City came at us near the end but Unions defence held firm, Union had a corner just before full time but the final touch was not there. Union played well and a draw would have been a fair result. Unions player of the match Was Hayley Stammers.

East Premier Division 1

6/12/03

 

 

Norwich Union 4 Chelmsford II 2

Union got off to the perfect start at Pinebanks with a fine goal inside the first minute from Vice Captain Lizzie Willimott. They continued to put Chelmsford under pressure and were rewarded from a short corner routine well converted by Rachel Miles. Chelmsford were always dangerous on the break and scored before the break. Union continued their determined play and went 3 – 1 ahead following a smart strike from Gemma Nicolls, which was deflected in by Rachel Miles. Player of the Match Angela Murgatroyd put in another strong performance, however Chelmsford clawed another goal back from a short corner strike. Union continued to press and were unfortunate to have a Gail Thomas strike disallowed, however shortly after they were rewarded with a penalty flick, converted by Hannah Austin.

 

Some good performances and teamwork through the first half of the season has seen Union rewarded with a move back up to second place.

 

Norfolk Premier Division

6/12/03

 

 

Sprowston 2 Norwich Union II 3

Norwich Union were fortunate to edge a 3-2 victory away to Sprowston. Although goals from Nat Beal and Bex Dungay gave Union a 2-0 lead halfway through the first half, Sprowston fought back strongly to reduce the deficit before the break and then equalise as the game entered the closing stages. However, Union were able to mount one more series of attacks and Nat Beal’s goal from a short corner claimed the points. Player of the match was keeper Manda Shinn for a series of important 2nd half saves.

Norfolk Division 2

6/12/03

 

 

Norwich Union III 2 Sprowston II 0

Norwich Union Ladies III were hungry for a victory. In the first half of the match with only a few minutes gone, pushing the ball into the left hand corner of the goal, Tara Catchpole gave Union a head start. Both teams defended and attacked well with good saves from both goal keepers. However, Norwich Union Ladies gained another goal from a penalty corner scored by Jo Tilson. Player of the match for Norwich Union was Kath Mares with solid tackles and strong running throughout the game.

Womens Trophy Round Three

30/11/03

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Milton Keynes 0

performance against strong oppostion in the 2nd round of the cup. They took an early lead through the hard working Kate Nichols, and then continued to pile on the pressure, however couldnt quite force home their advantage. Both Teams had a penalty flick saved – Union conceding late in the game but player of the match Sam Jelliff pulled off a vital save to ensure the game wasnt forced into extra time. Finally Union made their pressure count with a second goal late on, following a great run from Lizzie Willimott, finshed off well by Gail Thomas.

East Premier Division 1

29/11/03

 

 

Peterborough 3 Norwich Union 0

Union will be very disappointed to come away from Peterborough with no points, however their opposition were stronger in most areas of the pitch and made their chances count with some clinical finishing. Kate Nichols was outstanding for Union in their midfield, however even her tireless work could not turn the game round for Union, despite a battling second half performance.

Norfolk Premier Division

29/11/03

 

 

Norwich Union II 5 Harleston Magpies III 0

Union played host to Magpies III at Pine Banks on Saturday. Union dominated the game finding the back of the net five times with Union’s pressure forceing Magpies to play in there own half 90% of the game. Nat Beal scored a hat-trick with the other goals comung from Kelly Smith and Lynn Price. A sixth goal for the home side, and fourth for Beal, was unfortunately disallowed. An excellent all round game from Union allowed flowing subs to come on to increase the pressure,and to award the team with three points. Union’s Player of the Match was Kate Urwin.

Norfolk Premier Division

22/11/03

 

 

Norwich Union II 0 Harleston Magpies Colts A 3

Union played host to Magpies Colts in driving rain on Saturday. Magpies came out on top in a flowing game in which Union put together some fine moves but were unable to find a finish. Magpies’ forwards were able to capitalise on their opportunities to post a 2-0 half time lead, with a further goal added after the break. The three goal deficit belied a good performance by Union in which Sally Small won player of the match.

Norfolk Division 2

22/11/03

 

 

Norwich Union III 2 Harleston Magpies B 2

Norwich Union played at home against Magpies Colts B drawing 2-2. It was a very close match from the beginning. Clare Baker scored the first goal for Union in the first half followed by a solid strike from Shirley McAllen. Strong defence throughout the game by Norwich Union helping the forwards in the second half to gain another goal also by Clare Baker and what a great hit it was as well. Soon after, Colts B player Artemis Clark tapped one in making it a draw. Nikki Mann gave a skilful performance and was Norwich Unions player of the match.

East Premier Division 1

15/11/03

 

 

St. Ives 2 Norwich Union 2

Despite battling hard against a tough team, Union left with just a point, despite having the ball in the net no less than 5 occassions. Umpires decisions failed to go their way which left NU a little frustrated! Having fallen behind early on following a clash between Lizzie Willimott and Sam Jelliff, Union then rallied and turned on the pressure. Despite having a penalty flick ruled out, Union kept pressing and got a deserved equaliser through player of the match Rachel Miles. After the break St Ives scored from a deflected short corner, however Union kept pressing and scored from a short corner of their own, sharply taken by Rachel Miles. Twice more Union had the ball in the net, both were ruled out however. Despite continued pressure union couldnt quite force home the winner they deserved.

Norfolk Premier Division

15/11/03

 

 

North Walsham 1 Norwich Union II 4

Union collected another 3 points, with an well deserved win over North Walsham, at Cromer. The teams were on level terms until Walsham were awarded with an deflected own goal to go 1-0 up. Union upped the pressure and forced a corner 10 minutes before half time from which Captain Sally Small struck the back board to level the score at half time. Union’s all-round game play and strength showed in the second half as Hayley Stammers add two more goals to Unions score sheet to lead 3-1. Unions last and forth goal came from a strong reverse stick shot from Bex Dungay was Unions player of the Match.

East Premier Division 1

8/11/03

 

 

Norwich Union 4 Thurrock 2

There were high expectations coming into this game with union having played consistently well in the previous few matches. It had promised to be tough physically as well as mentally and it certainly did not disappoint. The hockey, however, left a lot to be desired, and the ladies in green finished the first half two goals to one down, with Rachel Suckling coming in on the overlap to put in her first goal ever at club level hockey (the wicked deflection all part of her cunning plan).

 

After severe words from Spike and a jolly good kick up the backside from manager Susan, the girls took a change of tact and started to play hockey. Some neat and determined work from both Taff and Lizzie gave Kate the opening the team needed and saw the girls in green draw level once more. Gaining impetus from this the team quickly slotted two more goals past the extremely frustrated Thurrock to eventually clinch the maximum three points. The third goal came from a crisp short corner routine which was deflected in by Kate; the fourth came minutes later when more gritty work by Taff was rewarded when Shelly ‘Beater’ was able to slam the ball into the backboard.

 

Although the performance was not one to write home about, the team should be pleased with the victory and the way they were able to turn the game around. The three points are valuable in keeping the leaders Maidstone within reach.

 

Lessons Learnt: Don’t mess with Spike and you have to stop the ball before you can do anything else!

 

Norfolk Premier Division

8/11/03

 

 

Norwich Union II 3 Dereham II 0

Norwich Union registered their first win of the season with a 3-0 home victory against Dereham. Dereham began strongly, dominating the early exchanges but Union fought back, and finished the half on level terms thanks to a fine save from a penalty flick by keeper Manda Shinn. The second half saw Union take control after an early goal by Hayley Stammers, who finished off a fine right wing move. Nat Beal extended the lead a few minutes later and Lyn Price made the points safe with a sharp finish in the closing stages. A fine all-round team performance by Union thoroughly meritted the three points. Player of the match – Manda Shinn.

East Premier Division 1

1/11/03

 

 

Anchorians 1 Norwich Union 4

Union had sealed the game by half time thanks to a hatrick from player of the match Hannah Austin and a fine solo effort from Gemma Nicholls. An excellent all round team performance saw some graet passing moves.

Friendly

1/11/03

 

 

Yarmouth 3 Norwich Union II 4

Yarmouth struck first scoring in the first five minutes from a corner, although the score didn’t reflect the 90% possession that union had over Yarmouth, with good strong all-round play from a committed Union team.

Although Union were encamped in in Yarmouth’s half, Yarmouth broke through and were awarded a corner from which they scored.

 

Union came out fired up in the second half and were rewarded with a free hit which found its way to Stammers who first controlled the ball and struck it into goal. Union then scored a second to level the score, with a run from Sally Small who made the keeper commit and slipped the ball to an on running Nat Beal who scored. Yarmouth went ahead with a scrappy/ disputed goal lifted over Unions keeper.

Unions committement showed as union came back again in the game to level the score at three all with a well struck corner by Hayley Stammers. Unions Scored the winner in the last 30 seconds with a goal from a corner slipped to Deb Smith, back to Sally Small whose shot at goal was saved by the keeper,but deflected to Nat Beal who smacked it into the goal. Unions Game play and determination earned them a brilliant win and an excellent team performance. Unions player of the match was Hayley Stammers. The only dissappointment was that it was not a league game.

East Premier Division 1

25/10/03

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Maidstone 3

Union were unlucky not to come away with a point after a determined second half display. Maidstone had taken a 2 – 0 in the first half but goals from Gail Thomas and Hannah Austin brought the tema level. With a minute to go Maidstone broke quickly and a well taken strike gave them all 3 points. Union should take many positives from an excellent team and individual performances, especially from player of the match Kate Nichols.

Friendly

25/10/03

 

 

Norwich Union II 1 Norwich City II 1

Norwich Union played host to Norwich city ,for their second meeting of the season,in a lively friendly at Pine banks. Union enjoyed plenty of possession in the first half and took the lead just before half time with a goal coming from a well struck corner from skipper Sally Small. Union’s play was much improved from previous weeks ,but clear cut chances were few, although union forced a series of corners. However City rode their luck 5 minutes from time, catching Union’s defence ball watching with a deft through ball that resulted in a sharp finish that span off the diving keepers stick into the goal. Union’s disappointment at the late equaliser should be balanced by satisfaction at a much improved team display, in which player of the match Tricia Hagan put in an energetic and skilful mid field performance.

Womens Trophy Round Two

19/10/03

 

 

Norwich Union 4 Sudbury 1

Union progressed into the second round of the HA Trophy with a 4 – 1 win over Sudbury. Union took the lead after a determined run over 50yards by Claire Baker whos pin point cross found Hannah Austin who slotted home the ball. A well worked short corner saw Hayley Stammers slot home the second. Sudbury then pressured well and were rewarded with a goal before the interval. The second half saw some great mid field work from player of the match Rachel Miles, the pressure was rewarded with two more goals from Gail Thomas and Sally Small

East Premier Division 1

18/10/03

 

 

St. Albans 1 Norwich Union 4

Union got back to winning ways after a super second half team performance in this Printwise east League Division 1 fixture.St Albans had taken an early lead in the first half only for Union to quickly equalise through Lizzie Willimott. Tireless work from Gemma Nicholls helped union create further chances and they deservedly took the lead early in the second half through a Gail Thomas short corner strike. A cleverly taken effort from Hannah Austin increased Union’s lead and the scoring was completed by a second from Lizzie Wilimott.

East Premier Division 1

11/10/03

 

 

Bishop Stortford 4 Norwich Union 2

Union went a goal down early on, but fought back well through two excellent goals from their player of the match Lizzie Willimott.

 

After the break, however, Bishop Storford increased the tempo of their game and hit back with 3 goals in a 10 minute spell. Union continued to battle hard, and had the greater percentage of possession, but could not convert this into goals.

 

Norfolk Premier Division

4/10/03

 

 

Norwich Union II 2 Great Yarmouth 2

Despite seeming to have most of the possession in the first half, Norwich Union found themselves 2 nil down at half time. The half time team talk worked as within the first 10 minutes of the second half, Hayley Stammers was on target twice to bring the scores level.

 

With a good sized crowd on the side line, Union continued to press but despite alot of pressure, some great movement and passsing, and great individual performances from Debs Smith, Kim Ridl and Trish Hagen, the game ended in a 2 all draw.

 

East Premier Division 1

4/10/03

 

 

Norwich Union 4 Broxbourne 0

Union will be encouraged by a fine team performance taking them to 2nd place in Division 1.

 

After some good early pressure they went ahead through a smartly worked short corner converted by Claire Baker. Following the break Union’s dominance continued and they made this count through an excellent strike by player of the match Gail Thomas. A fine individual effort from Kate Nichols and another from Nikki Moulson completed a great result.

 

Norfolk Premier Division

27/9/03

 

 

Norwich City II 3 Norwich Union II 1

Dispite a promising start, with slick quick passing and great movement and a goal for Norwich Union in the first 2 minutes (Hayley Stammers), Norwich City got back into the game equalising before half time.

 

Norwich City continued to improve scoring 2 more goals in the second half. In the last 15 minutes Norwich Union found the passing and movement and eagerness which they had at the start of the match, forcing 5 or 6 short corners in a row, but failed to score dispite Kelly Page hitting the post after some good build up work.

 

East Premier Division 1

27/9/03

 

 

Wisbech 1 Norwich Union 2

Norwich Union got their league season off to a winning start, thanks to some excellent defensive play, in particular from Player of the Match Angela Murgatroyd. Union scored from two well taken efforts after the break, having had most of the possession in the first half. Goals were scored by Claire Baker, on her return from injury and Gemma Nicholls, onher league debut.

 

Union had to survive a frantic last 10 minutes, after having conceded a scrappy goal, however they held on to take all 3 points and start their league season off well.

 

Norfolk Division 2

27/9/03

 

 

Norwich City III 2 Norwich Union III 1

Despite exceptional performances from Emma Blackham with her fast running and Sara Flatt with her precision passing, Norwich Union Ladies put in a good performance with Sally Leake fighting right until the final whistle. First half was tough and second half got better with a cracking goal from Natasha Blythe which contributed to a memorable game.

Friendly

20/9/03

 

 

Bury St. Edmunds 3 Norwich Union 2

Union were stunned very early on going a goal down in the first 20 seconds of the game! Despite a lot of first half pressure, Union could not convert this into goals, and found themselves 3 – 0 down as Bury made their chances count. However Union did not let their heads go down and pulled one back just before the break, following good work and an excellent strike from ‘man of the match’ Gemma Nicholls.

 

The second half was dominated by Norwich Union, and they nearly earnt themselves a deserved draw, scoring a second through Hannah Austin, however Bury held out.

 

Friendly

15/9/03

 

 

Dereham 3 Norwich Union 1

Union held the lead for much of the first half through the highly influential Lizzie Willimott. Dereham equalised before half time and then

stepped up the pressure in the 2nd half with a couple more goals. Again the result doesnt reflect the work rate and the chances NU created, but another good work out against at team a league above

Friendly

13/9/03

 

 

Norwich Union 4 Old Buckenham 2

Despite having a significant amount of early possession, Union failed to capitalise and were stunned as Old Buckenham scored 2 goals in quick succession to take a 2 goal lead. Union regained their composure, and scored from an excellent short corner strike from Gail Thomas just before half time.

 

2nd half saw Union start to dominate, turning their pressure into goals, with two from Hannah Austin and another from Nikki Moulson. Whilst Union could have scored more, they did well to turn around the early two goal deficit.

 

Friendly

6/9/03

 

 

Harleston II 3 Norwich Union 0

Whilst 3 – 0 was not fully reflective of the game, Harlestons slicker passing and more clinical finishing was the difference between the teams. Union fielded a number of new players, who all fitted in excellently, which bodes well for the new season.

Friendly

13/9/03

 

 

Harleston Colts A 0 Norwich Union II 2

A good start for the Norwich Union 2’s under new captain Sally Small. The team was mostly unchanged from last years, with Kate McCabe and Rebecca Mary Dungay giving great performances on their debuts and Sara Flatt having an excellent match on her return after a year out. Hayley Stammers had an excellent game, playing for the second team after spending last season with the third team.The goals came after great team work in the build up, one in each half, both scored by Natalie Beal.

 

Amanda Shinn in goal made some great saves to give herself and the team a well deserved clean sheet. With a great team spirit and a great all round team performance, Norwich Union 2’s look forward to the league matches ahead.

 

 

 

2002-2003 Season

Men’s

Division Two North

8/3/03

 

 

Norwich Union 6 Peterborough Athletic 0

Union were in a confident mood going into this game against one of the few sides to have taken any points from them this season. Their confidence was soon rewarded as Miles picekd up an aerial ball from Taylor, drove into the D and shot high into the roof of the net. Just two minutes later Green was on the end of a cross from Jones, to make it 2-0. An unfortunate incident followed where a Peterborough player was hit after a deflection from his own players stick hit him in the face before dropping into the goal. This left the visitors 3-0 down and with just 10 men after ten minutes of the game. Peterborough immediately abandoned all attack and tried to defend the game out. Further goals from Dickenson, Miles and Snelling finished the game off.

Division Two North

1/3/03

 

 

Cambridge City II 0 Norwich Union 1

In the crucial match of the season Norwich Union travelled to Cambridge for a top of the table clash. Victory would put Union 6 points clear with five matches to go, leaving them in a strong position to win the league. The early exchanges demonstrated both teams desire to win the game, and it was Norwich who took the early advantage with Mylne finishing after a good trhough ball from Green. Union were then put under a lot of pressure from Cambridge but went into the half time break with a lead thanks to some excellent defending from the whole team. The second half followed a similar pattern, with Norwich defending well and creating chances in the Cambridge half. With ten minutes to go the game could have gone either way, but more resolute defending meant that Norwich finished the game with a clean sheet and took the three points. This was an excellent performance which puts Union in a strong position for the rest of the season.

Division Two North

22/2/03

 

 

Norwich Union 7 Bourne II 1

Norwich Union faced a well organised Bourne side at Pinebanks in a crucial match in Division 2 North. Needing to win to take a lead in to next weeks decider with Cambridge City, Union were pushed hard in the first half as both sides played some good passing hockey. Union took the lead as miles was brought down by the charging Bourne keeper, and Norman stepped up to score from the resulting penalty. Norwich increased the pressure on the Bourne defence from the start of the second half and immediately increased their lead. Union then started to dominate the game and the goals flowed, with Ledger scoring twice and Green, Snelling, Miles, Mylne adding one a piece. This leaves Norwich unbeaten and three points clear of their nearest rivals whom they face next saturday.

Division Two North

15/2/03

 

 

Broadland 0 Norwich Union 7

Norwich Union continued their dominance of the Division, beating Broadland by 7 – 0. A competitive first half saw Union take an early two goal lead through Ledger and Norman, and then fail to play imaginative enough hockey to increase their lead. This was amended in the second half as Norwich dominated the possession, forcing short corners and creating numerous chances. Norman increased his tally through another short corner, before rounding off his hatrick to add to goals from Ledger, Taylor and Wolfe.

Division Two North

8/2/03

 

 

Norwich Union 10 Felixstowe 0

An outstanding performance despite not having played or trained for two weeks saw Norwich Union destroy visitors Felixstowe. It was clear after the first few minutes that Norwich were the better side after some crisp passing saw them threaten to score early. Felixstowe managed to hold on for about 10 minutes before Union took the lead, and went on to lead by five at half time. The second half produced an equally one sided display, with Felixstowe rarely getting any possession, while the home side continued to pile on the pressure. For the third time this season Union went on to score double figures, ending the game 10-0, with Green 4, Dickenson 2, Snelling 2, Ledger 2 claiming the goals.

Division Five North East

8/2/03

 

 

Norwich Union IV 5 Norwich City V 1

Goals by Rutherford, Key and a Garner hat-trick saw Union triumph in a good natured game.

Division Two North

25/1/03

 

 

UEA 2 Norwich Union 5

In a spirited and highly competitive local derby Norwich Union proved to be slightly fitter and more decisive, leaving with 3 points. Both teams started brightly, but it was Union who took the lead as a well worked short corner by Matt Taylor beat the UEA keeper. UEA battled and drew level with a short corner of their own, then took the lead against the run of play with a second corner. A period of very even play followed until Norwich were able to draw level as Mylne finished from close range. The second half saw superior fitness take over and Union accelerated away scoring three further goals through Taylor, Ledger and Mylne

Division Five North East

25/1/03

 

 

Norwich Union IV 2 Harleston Magpies IV 1

Goals from Banham, Wilson and a penalty save by Millar saw Union back to winning ways.

Division Two North

14/12/02

 

 

Norwich Union 3 Sudbury 1

Norwich Union go into the Christmas break unbeaten over the first half of the season and with a five point cushion over the rest of the division. Saturday saw second place Sudbury visit, but superior passing and a good team performance form Union saw them leave with nothing. Although Sudbury had the better of the opening exchanges it was not long before the home side took over, denying possession to the visitors. The lead duly arrived as a mishit shot at goal landed at the feet of Ledger to score in an empty goal. A second goal came shortly after, as a well placed cross from Taylor allowed Miles to score at the back post. Norwich scored a third soon after half time when Mylne and Ledger combined to embarass the sudbury defence. Sudbury continued to battle and claimed a consolation goal after a deflected short corner strike sneaked in to the corner.

Division Two North

7/12/02

 

 

Spalding 0 Norwich Union 9

Norwich union returned to form, playing some of their best hockey this season away at Spalding. The game was dominated by Union from the start with slick passing moves soon leading to a short corner which was converted by Snelling. The Norwich forward line had the run of the pitch, particularly Ledger, who completed his hatrick before halftime, adding to goals from Norman and Miles. The second half followed a similar pattern, with Norwich dominating both posession and chances. Further goals were added by Mylne (2) and Snelling before union settled for a clean sheet and 3 points.

Division Two North

30/11/02

 

 

Norwich Union 5 Peterborough Town III 2

A good home performance combined with other results leaves Norwich Union 5 points clear at the top of Div 2 North. Norwich played a much better style of passing hockey against town who rarely saw the ball in the first half, and defended in numbers. Eventually one of these moves found a way through the 10 man defence, and Green was on hand to tap the ball home. A second move five minutes later saw the same outcome as Green claimed his second to lead by two at half time. Although the pace dropped in the second half Union extended their lead through Snelling and Miles. Peterborough got their name on the scoresheet, through two freak deflections, leaving the keeper stranded, before Green completed his hatrick in the dying minutes.

Division Two North

23/11/02

 

 

Peterborough Athletic 3 Norwich Union 3

In a disappointing performance, Norwich Union let a two goal lead slip to deny themselves a victory in Peterborough. Union never quite looked themselves, but took the lead when Ledger finished after a scramble in the area. Athletic equalised when poor defending left them with a man over to tap the ball home after a good first save from Woodruff in goal. Norwich then played a good spell of hockey and Green scored under pressure to finished a well worked move. The second half saw an early goal from Snelling to extend the lead to two, but complacency from Norwich combined with some interesting umpiring decisions allowed Peterborough to score two quick goals to level. Union pressured the opposition goal solidly for the last fifteen minutes but were unable to add to the score.

Division Two North

16/11/02

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Cambridge City II 2

Norwich Union maintained their unbeaten record, but were pushed the whole way by a well organised Cambridge City defensive performance. An evenly contested first half saw few chances at either end until a shot was illegally stopped by a Cambridge player on the line to conceed a penalty stroke. This was duly converted by Cerfontyn to give Union the lead. City drew level just before Half time when a defensive error led to Norwich giving the ball away in their own area and gifting Cambridge the easiest of finishes. The home side took the lead for the second time mid way through the second half as Norman put a well struck short corner past the keeper, but Union were unable to hold on under late pressure with the scores being levelled with five minutes to go.

Division Two North

9/11/02

 

 

Bourne II 0 Norwich Union 7

A game that was a lot more competitive than the scoreline suggests was opened with a fortunate goal for Union at close range (Mylne). Snelling added a second before Mylne added to the tally just before halftime. The second half was equally competitive, with Union playing some outstanding patches of hockey. One of these periods led to 4 goals being scored (Snelling, Miles, Wolfe and Green) in 5 minutes to seal an excellent win that sees Union as the highest scorers in the league.

Division Two North

2/11/02

 

 

Norwich Union 10 Broadland 1

Norwich Union reached double figures for the second time this season in demolishing local rivals Broadland. Good passing saw the home side dominate from the start and this pressure was soon converted into goals as Ben Miles struck twice. Union never looked back and added further goals from Ledger and Green before Miles completed his first half hatrick to lead 5-0 at the break. Despite scoring early in the second half from a well worked free hit the pressure continued to pile up on Broadland, and it was not long before this was converted in to goals with Green, Norman, Miles and Mylne scoring twice. This leaves Norwich unbeaten at the top of the table, with breathing space starting to open on their nearest rivals.

Division Five North East

2/11/02

 

 

Pelicans III 3 Norwich Union IV 2

Three goals around half time saw pelicans clinch the top of the table clash. Union goals from Wilson and Banham sandwiched the Pelican’s trio, but in a frantic last ten minutes Union couldn’t find the equaliser.

Division Three North East

2/11/02

 

 

Norwich City II 1 Norwich Union II 2

After going behind to a well crafted goal by Norwich City, Norwich Union applied the pressure and scored with a penalty flick from Jason Wolfe. A short corner was not dealt with by the City defence and Richard Moulson swept in and scored from a rebound to make it 2 – 1 to Union

Division Three North East

26/10/02

 

 

Norwich Union II 7 Lowestoft Town 1

A spirted display from Norwich Union II saw Lowestoft Town beaten 7 – 1 on Saturday. Union were kept in the game early in the game by Dan Karlsson in goal which earnt him the Man of the Match award. From this base a hat-trick from Bruce McQuade was supported by goals from Ady Kemp, Giles Brooks, Simon Parsons and Pete Thomas.

Division Two North

26/10/02

 

 

Felixstowe 3 Norwich Union 4

Norwich Union found themselves top of Division 2 North after a scrappy match away to Felixstowe. Felixstowe took the lead with a deflection from a cross, leaving the keeper with no chance, but Norwich quickly replied through a short range finish from Mylne. A lack of concentration before half time then saw Felixstowe score again on the counter attack. The second half was a vast improvement with possession being dominated by Norwich. Mylne continued to show his eye for goal, scoring three further short range goals, taking his personal tally to four. Felixstowe reduced the deficite with another break away goal, but too late in the game to affect the outcome of the match.

HEL Trophy Round 1

20/10/02

 

 

Long Sutton 4 Norwich Union 3

The high flying leaders of their division, Long Sutton – replete with a contingent of 6 Australian imports – would have expected an easy game against the visitors from two divisions below. This was not to be though, and a game of the highest standard and entertainment value unfolded. End to end play, full of fine passing moves and individual skill saw chances created at both ends. Long Sutton took the lead after about 20 minutes, but Union hit back quickly through Green after fine work from Miles. After scores were level at half time it continued to be a close fought game, with Long Sutton again taking the lead before Green scored again to level, this time after excellent work from Ledger. Union then started to dominate the game, and had a number of excellent chances – including two cruelly disallowed goals – but Long Sutton responded well and scored two quick goals in reply. The visitors then finished strongly with Snelling adding his name to the scoresheet, but the clock finally ran out before they could gain level.

Division Three North East

19/10/02

 

 

Norwich Union II 1` Lowestoft Railway 1

Rob Wagstaff in his return from injury completed a full game with only 2 breathers…both at the request of the Umpire! He did have company from Mr Wolfe & Mr Hipper! Richard “The axe” Moulson is moulding his team in his own form! Union took a deserved lead through a penalty flick converstion by McQuade. Wolfe almost made it 2-0 when his well crafted opening was miraculously saved off the line by a defenders stick. Railway scored a freakish equaliser when a strike from within the D was deflected high over the Union ‘keeper Karlson. Even when down to 9 men Union played resolutely and had the best of the chances near the end of the game when back to full strength.

Division Four North East

19/10/02

 

 

Norwich Union III 1` Lowestoft Railway II 0

A very even game was decided in the 2nd half by Roly Palmer who deflected a Latoy free hit for Union’s winner. Despite some late Railway pressure the Union defence held firm.

Division Two North

19/10/02

 

 

Ipswich & East Suffolk II 0 Norwich Union 10

An outstanding display from the visiting side saw 5 goals scored either side of half time. The first half in particular was dominated by Union possession, and IES got a taste of things to come when Snelling netted the first short corner after just a couple of minutes. A second was added quickly through Green, before Norman added a second short corner goal. The game was characterised by some excellent passing play, with Miles and Jones adding to the first half tally. Mylne, Cerfontyn, Snelling, Geen and Ledger piled on the misery for the home side, in a game which finally saw Union live up to their potential and begin to play as a settled team.

Division Two North

12/10/02

 

 

Norwich Union 4 UEA 3

In Div 2 North newly promoted UEA looked to build on their good start to the league by playing local rivals Norwich Union. In a game where neither team wanted to take command, Union opened the scoring as Mylne finished from close range. After a second short range effort from Mylne Norwich Union looked the stronger of the two sides, until a good finish from Neil Walker (UEA) left the score at 2-1 at half time. Uea started much stronger in the second half, forcing a number of short corners, eventually converting through Gall to level the scores. Excellent play down the right of the pitch led to a well worked goal for Union through Ledger, before Gall managed to force the ball over the line from close range to level the scores once more. The game was finally settled by a controversial decision. After a goal mouth scramble the Umpire judged the ball to have crossed UEA’s goal line and a goal was awarded to Union. The season still looks bright for both teams who showed a lot of spirit in this game.

Division Five North East

12/10/02

 

 

Norwich Union IV 2 Broadland III 1

Two goals from Andy Key sealed a Union win in an evenly contested game.

Division Five North East

5/10/02

 

 

Norwich Union IV 1 Norwich City V 0

Union dominated for long periods of this game, but couldn’t break down a strong city defence. City looked dangerous on the counter attack, however a goal from Wilson sealed the win for the home side.

Division Two North

5/10/02

 

 

St. Neots 2 Norwich Union 3

NU started their season with a difficult away trip to St Neots. Union fielded several new recruits and were pleased with a fast start which saw them take the lead after debutant Ben Miles rounded the keeper to score in an empty net. Union allowed the level to drop for a period, as an ill-tempered St Neots side disrupted the rhythm of the game,before equalising with a short corner strike just before half time. Union again started well in the second half, this time Green scoring twice from close range to give union the lead. St Neots fought hard and pulled one back. This was a hard fought win which left union relieved to be leaving with all three points.

Division Five North East

26/10/02

 

 

Norwich Union IV 1 Thetford 0

Union continued their unbeaten start to the season with a narrow victory over a determined Thetford side but in reality the game should have been out of sight by early 2nd half. Thetford made the early running forcing Union keeper Robbie Whiting to make a couple of reflex saves. The Union goal came from a clean short corner strike by skipper Mike Banham & Union scored a 2nd on the Half time whistle from another short only to have it disallowed for not being stopped in the execution. Early 2nd half, Simon Garner supplied a couple of clear chances from left wing crosses, only to see the recipients unable to seal victory.

 

Women’s

Division Two

22/3/03

 

 

Norwich Union III 2 Sprowston II 1

Norwich Union Ladies put in another superb performance and worked very well together in order to gain an important victory over Sprowston. The well worked and deserved goals were put in by Kerry White and Hayley Stammers.

Premier Division

15/3/03

 

 

Norwich Union II 7 Pelicans II 0

Norwich Union left it until the second half before showing some of the skills that have kept them near the top of the league all season, scoring 6 of the 7 after the break, and a stern talking to from the team captain. Nat Beale had a great performance, netting 5 goals.

Division Two

15/3/03

 

 

Norwich Union III 1 Old Buckenham 3

Norwich Union produced a superb performance against table leaders Old Buckenham at the weekend, holding them to a scoreless draw by half time due to some fantastic teamwork. Old Buckenham had to work hard to score their three goals in the second half and the strong Union side refused to give up, producing a brilliant final 20 minutes of play which culminated in a goal by Sue Cross.

Premier Division

8/3/03

 

 

Yarmouth 1 Norwich Union II 1

Union once again shared the points in a away game at Yarmouth. Union had 90% of the possession in the first half,and seemed to have control of the game alas the score stayed at 0-0 at half time. Unions determination paid of in the second with a diving lunge into the goal mouth by Vanessa Boon. Union failed to add to the score, but kept battling until close to full time Yarmouth equalised from a corner.

Premier Division

1/3/03

 

 

Norwich Union II 1 Harleston Colts A 1

Union shared the points with Colt’s in a 1-1 draw at Pinebanks. Chances were scarce in the first half, but Union took the lead midway through with a well taken goal (by Nat Beal)after a shout was rebounded of the keepers pads. Colts pressed strongly in the second half, but Union defended stoutly. Colts finally draw level from a flick late on. Both team sought a winner but ultimately time ran out and points shared.

Division Two

1/3/03

 

 

Norwich Union III 0 Harleston Colts B 3

Union’s fight and determination in this game against a young Colts team showed throughout. Alas the score only reflects the goal that go in. Union finally lost the game 3-0 to the colts, but can draw encouragement from this determined performance and carry it forward into the next game

Premier Division

22/2/03

 

 

Norwich Union II 2 Watton 4

NU 2nds went down 4-2 at home to Watton at Pinebanks in an entertaining game. Union took the lead early in the first half with a goal from Kate Urwin, but league leaders Watton fought back strongly to lead 2-1 at half time. Watton increased their lead early in the second half but Union continued to battle and secured a second goal from a well struck goal from Nat Beal. Union pressed thereafter until Watton made sure of the points with a fine stike in the closing stages.

Division Two

 

Herlings 0 Norwich Union III 3

Encouraging Spirited words by Unions Captain lifted her players in to playing some of the best hockey of the season.

Union had only a short time to familiarise themselves with the grass pitch.After a few minutes both teams had found their feet, Unions grit and determination saw them battler in all areas of the field to win the ball, if it had not been for the skilful goal keeping from Herlings keeper, Unions final score may have doubled. Unions Scores were Sue Cross, Hayley Stammers and Jo Tilsom.

Premier Division

15/2/03

 

 

Norwich Union II 1 Norwich City II 2

Union’s dominance in the first half was rewarded with a goal by Natasha Blyth.Union’s control of the match drifted away in the second half with a series of corners ending in a goal for Norwich City. Union attacked in an attempt to find a winner, but were unable to find the net, and the points were shared.

Premier Division

8/2/03

 

 

Norwich Union II 2 Dereham 3

Union’s dominance rewarded them with 2 goals in the first half, by Vanessa Boon and Natalie Beal. Union controlled this half and were playing up to the standard they played before Christmas. The second half repeated a familiar pattern as Union saw their lead wiped out by a determined fight back that saw Dereham rewarded with all three points. Union saw two second half goals ruled out, to leave their efforts unrewarded and to come away with yet another disappointing loss.

Premier Division

25/1/03

 

 

Norwich Union II 1 Broadland 1

Norwich Union II’s played out a 1-1 draw against a determined Broadland side. Union held the upper hand early on and Kelly Page scored a neat goal to give them an early lead. Broadland fought back hard as the first half closed and exerted strong pressure on the Union goal for much of the second half. The Union defnece resisted stoutly and keeper Amanda Shinn made several fine saves. However, Broadland continued to press and claimed a deserved equalisor in the closing stages. Despite some close calls neither side could find a winner. Union will need to add a cutting edge to their efforts int he coming weeks if they are to retain their highflying position in the Premiership legal table as the pursuing pack gain ground.

Premier Division

18/1/03

 

 

Evergreens 2 Norwich Union II 1

With Christmas Over Unions first weather approved match was away to Evergreens in Holt. Evergreens caught out Union with an early goal from a corner in the first five minuets, following this Union bounced straight back with an equaliser by Tricia Hagan. Lack of match practices showed in the second half from both teams although Evergreens came out more hungry, by sealing the win in the last few minutes.

Division Two

7/12/02

 

 

Sprowston II 3 Norwich Union III 0

Despite a hard fought match, Nu were unanble to capitalise on their oportunities on Saturday, and suffered a 3-0 loss to Sprowston on grass. There was notable excellent play from Natasha Blythe, Sue Cross and Kerry White.

Premier Division

7/12/02

 

 

Norwich Union II 5 Sprowston 3

With the Christmas break approaching Union secured second place in the league, due to a strong team performance, in a hard fought game against a very strong Sprowston side. Sprowston scored first within five minutes, which upped both teams determination to win, at half time scores were level at 2 a piece. After a strong and positive team talk from Rowan Graydon (captain), Union call out the stronger in the second half to end the game with a good heart victory. Union scores Liz Woodruff, Sally Small, Hayley Stammers and two for Nat Beal.

Division Two

30/11/02

 

 

Old Buckenham 5 Norwich Union III 0

A spirited Norwich Union side were outplayed by the speed and dexterity of league topping club Old Buckenham at the weekend despite an incredible effort made by all. The 2-0 half time score was widened in the second half by 3 excellent goals made mosty by lone breakaway players who outran the valient attempts of the backs to stop them.

Premier Division

30/11/02

 

 

Norwich Union II 7 Pelicans II 0

A late afternoon under flood lights saw Norwich Union achieve a 7 – 0 result. A fluent first half performance resulted in a 2 -0 lead at half time. However despite dominating possession in the second half Union had to wait until the final quarter before translating their dominance into a further 5 goals. Scorers Shelly Garrod 2, Caroline Wolfe 1, Natalie Beal 1, Kelly Page 1, Sally Bassett 1 and Tricia Hagan 1. An excellent performance all round.

Division Two

23/11/02

 

 

UEA II 5 Norwich Union III 0

Norwich Union III’s played UEA II’s and lost 5-0. They played well in the first half with a strong defense but unfortunately lost the edge in the second half.

Super League Division One

16/11/02

 

 

Thurrock 1 Norwich Union 1

Norwich Union drew 1-1 with Thurrock at Canvey Island in Division One. They took the lead through captain Hannah Austin after good play from Lynne Price and Gail Thomas, but Thurrock equalised soon after the break. Strong midfield work from Rachel Sandall and a once again solid defence ensured Union the point.

Premier Division

16/11/02

 

 

Harleston Colts A 0 Norwich Union II 2

Norwich Union came away from Harlston with an excellent 2-0 victory against a strong Colts team , in prevailing weather on their new water based pitch. The goals were scored by Natalie Beal and Shelley Garrod.

Division Two

16/11/02

 

 

Norwich Union III 0 Harleston Colts B 5

Despite a valiant effort, NU ladies 3’s were unable to score in a hard fought game against Colts B on Saturday. At half time the score was 0-0 despite the efforts of Colts B whose goals were skillfully saved by NU’s goalie Ann Taylor. In the second half, the colts got the better of Union, scoring 5 well worked goals and keeping a lot of the action between themselves. Well done union on a very good effort!

Division Two

9/11/02

 

 

Norwich Union III 7 Holt 1

Norwich Union ladies 3’s got an early wakeup call in their league match on saturday when Holt scored in the first minute of the game. However, the soon regrouped and some very strong attacking play saw Susan Lansdell score her first goal of the season for Union. Two further excellent goals from Janene Mulvaney and one from superscorer Hayley Stammers brought the score to 4-1 at half time to Union.

 

The second half saw just as much scoring action when fantastic team play brought 2 goals from Jo Tilson and a further one from Hayley Stammers to bring the final score to a very well deserved 7-1 to Union ladies.

 

Premier Division

9/11/02

 

 

Dereham II 0 Norwich Union II 3

Union came back into winning form taking all three points away to Dereham II. Two goals by Natalie Beal in the first half and third by Caroline Wolfe in the second half secured the win.

Division Two

2/11/02

 

 

Norwich Union III 10 Herlings 0

Norwich Union Ladies 3’s enjoyed ther finest win of the season so far in a spectacular 10-0 win against Herlings on Saturday. The match opened with some excellent play from both teams , culminating in a goal from NU’s newcomer Jo Tilson. Union had many further shots at goal which were ably defended by Herlings skillful goalkeeper until 2 well worked goals by Hayley Stammers took the score to 3-0 at half time. Union upped the pace in the second half, scoring a further seven goals- 2 more from Hayley Stammers, 3 from Louise Bracey (amster), another from Jo Tilson and a skillfully worked first goal of the season from Andrea Howes. Congratulations to the team on an excellent, well earned result!

Premier Division

2/11/02

 

 

Watton 3 Norwich Union II 2

Despite another great team performance Union came away with a 3-2 defeat to a determined Watton side.

Union lead 2-1 at half time, with Union goals by Natalie Beal and Sally Small.However Watton equalised in the second half and snatched all three points with a goal in the last two minutes.

Division Two

26/10/02

 

 

Norwich Union III 4 Norwich City III 2

Norwich Union Ladies 3’s continued the season in fine form in their delayed league match against Norwich City Ladies 3’s. The game started well with both sides playing some excellent hockey, bofore Norwich Union capitalised on their posession in the D with a superb goal from Hayley Stammers After half time, City quickly fought back to level the score at one all. NU pushed into the lead shortly afterwards (Goal by Caroline Wolfe), only for city to equalise almost seconds later! Union finished the game with two more skillfully worked goals by Hayley Stammers and Georgina Meredith.

Friendly

20/10/02

 

 

Norwich Union 2 British Police 2

The 1st Team also played on Sunday against a touring British PoliceTeam and came away with a hard earned 2-2 draw. Union’s first came from a great strike by Gail Thomas, the second was a fine solo goal from a determined run by Baker. Union were unlucky to come away with two serious injuries including a broken arm for 1st Team debutant Nessie Boon.

Friendly

20/10/02

 

 

Yarmouth II 4 Norwich Union III 1

The 3rd Team played away to Yarmouth and although they managed to absorbalot of the pressure and apply much of their own, lost the game 4-1 with two Yarmouth goals scored in the final 5 minutes. Sue Cross scored for Union.

Friendly

19/10/02

 

 

Pelicans 0 Norwich Union II 2

Union put in another great team performance and came away with a 2-0 win over a strong Pelicans team. Union scored either side of half time.The first goal was well taken by Sally Small and second was struck by Kelly Page and helped in by Natalie Beal.

Friendly

19/10/02

 

 

Norwich Union 3 Norwich city 1

The 1st Team played Norwich City I on Saturday and came out on top with a 3-1 win. City equalised through an unfortunate slip in Union’s defence after a an opening goal from Taff Baker. Further goals from Baker and Rachel Clarke sealed the win.

Division Two

12/10/02

 

 

Norwich Union III 3 Broadland II 2

Norwich Union ladies 3’s second league game of the season saw them achieve their first win in a game in which they dominated the posession. By half time Norwich Union had a 2-0 lead thanks to superb build up, typified by Sue Cross, and well worked goals by Caroline Wolfe and Georgina Meredith. Broadland made a spirited comeback in the second half to level the score at two all until Caroline Wolfe capitalised on our continued pressure in the opposition half with her second goal of the match.

 

 

2001-2002 Season

Men’s

Division Two North

9/3/02

 

 

Norwich Union 5 Broadland 2

In an open game, Broadland started the brighter of the two sides and soon took advantage of some poor defending from Norwich Union to take a two goal lead. Norwich pulled a goal back before half time after good work from Mylne, and then drew level at the start of the second half as Harrison sent a reverse stick under cut in to the top corner of the goal. Norwich then took control of the match and further goals from Snelling, Jones and Taylor took the game beyond Broadland, to give Norwich Union an outside chance ofgaining promotion.

Division Two North

2/3/02

 

 

Ipswich & East Suffolk II 1 Norwich Union 4

Norwich Union beat Ipswich & East Suffolk II by 4-1 in Division Two North, with goals from Jones, Green, Mylne and Harrison.

Division Two North

23/2/02

 

 

Norwich Union 8 Bourne II 1

Norwich Union finally produced the performance they had been threatening all season when they demolished Bourne II by 8-1 in Division Two North.

 

Three goals in the opening ten minutes from Green (2) and Harrison left Bourne shellshocked. A penalty stroke saw the visitors pull a goal back, only for Union to reply immediately through Wagstaff.

 

Union never looked back and further goals from Jones, Kelsall and Harrison sealed the victory before debutant Josh Mylne marked his appearance by diving full length to score at the back post.

 

Division Three North East

23/2/02

 

 

Norwich Union II 1 University of East Anglia 3

Norwich Union II lost 3-1 to UEA in Division Three North East, with captain Richard Moulson their scorer.

Division Three North East

9/2/02

 

 

University of East Anglia II 2 Norwich Union II 3

An unpredictable game with both sides having plenty of cnances and goals being scored against the run of play. UEA had the better of the first half and Union were indebted to their goalkeeper who made several excellent saves to prevent UEA from taking the lead. Shortly before half time Union scored after Josh Mylne managed to collect the ball just inside the “D” and push it past the onrushing UEA keeper using his reverse stick. In the second half despite UEA pressure Union scored again with a predatory goal from veteran Adie Kemp following a scramble in the area. UEA deservedly came back into the game. First they scored through a controversial penalty flick, then they equalised following a short corner. Union were ruing a missed penalty flick but then regained the lead through a short corner, Robbie Kay striking the ball home. UEA pressed forward in search of the equaliser but Union were determind not to squander the lead again.

Division Three North East

9/2/02

 

 

Norwich Union II 1 Bury St. Edmunds II 2

Despite being played at a high tempo the first half of this game failed to produce a goal. Union came close when Pete Thomas shaved the post from a narrow angle. Bury put pressure on the Union goal without creating any clearcut openings. The second half saw Bury take the lead after a Union defender deflected the ball into his own goal. Union fought back to one each when Pete Thomas made up for his earlier miss by sweeping home from close range following a good ball into the “D” by captain Richard Moulson. The game seemed to be heading for a draw, when two minutes from the end, after a series of short corners, Bury scored with a shot which hit the Union goalkeeper’s pads and crept over the goaline. There was no time left for a Union comeback and their players were disconsolete whereas Bury continue their promotion challenge.

Division Two North

26/1/02

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Royston 2

On a different day this could have been 12-0 to Union, but a combination of poor finishing, and fortune favouring the visitors meant the home side had to settle for a point. Improved appraoch play saw Union back to something like their best in midfield, with Green, Taylor and Harrison linking up particularly well. The early pressure was well kept out by the Royston keeper, who made a string of excellent saves, and then Royston shocked everyone when their first half-chance was badly mis-hit and cruelly went home. Union then struck back, but couldn’t convert until Harrison finally squeezed one home from short range. Green looked to have won the game for Union before Royston’s second chance was bundled in.

Division Three North East

26/1/02

 

 

Norwich Union II 2 Harleston Magpies III 2

There was a spectacular start to this game with Josh Mylne scoring for Norwich Union after only 35 seconds. The goal came after the ball was played out to the right and crossed to the top of the D for a crisp strike to the right of the goalkeeper. Norwich Union kept up the pressure and almost scored again when Alex Browne hit a post. Harleston then started to find their feet and put together some good passing movements without really threatening the N.U. goal. However they managed to equalise after N. U. failed to clear a short corner and at half time it was one each. Harleston scored first in the second half again following a short corner leaving N.U. cursing their failure to convert several good chances. Justice was done late on in the game when Robbie Kay thumped home a short corner to equalise for N.U. Despite some very late N.U. pressure the winner proved elusive.

Division Three North East

20/01/02

 

 

Norwich Union II 3 University of East Anglia II 0

A comfortable win in this re-arranged match for Norwich Union secured a maximum six points in 48 hours. Union were a bit disjointed at first and with UEA full of running the contest was quite even. Union then started working as a team and with lots of movement of the ball chances began to flow. The first goal came from a short corner with Robbie Kay hitting home after a brief scramble in UEA’s D. McQuade added a second after half time to complete his hatrick for the weekend. Star performer Pete Thomas sealed the result by rounding the goalkeeper after being put through on goal, before slotting the ball in from a narrow angle. UEA played some fine freeflowing hockey but were unable to create many clear cut chances.

Division Three North East

19/01/02

 

 

Pelicans II 0 Norwich Union II 2

A solid win for Norwich Union against a swift counterattacking Pelicans side. The first half was quite even with good saves by the Norwich Union goalkeeper keeping the scoresheet blank until and Pelicans causing Union lots of problems on the break. During the second half Norwich Union started passing the ball much more accurately and quickly stretching the Pelicans defence and creating several good chances from open play plus a number of short corners. Eventually they were rewarded when Bruce McQuade hammered the ball into the goal after a variation on the usual short corner routine. Soon after Union were awarded a penalty flick when a Pelicans player was adjudged to have illegally stopped a goal bound shot. Again McQuade was the scorer with a low flick to the keeper’s right. After this the result was never really in doubt although Pelicans continued to look dangerous going forward.

Division Five North East

19/01/02

 

 

University of East Anglia III 0 Norwich Union III 1

Norwich Union IV took a 1-0 lead in the first half from Matt Wilson netting at a short corner, but shortly after the half-time break UEA III levelled. Norwich Union IV bravely defended relentless UEA III attacks for a well deserved draw.

Division Two North

12/01/02

 

 

Norwich Union 3 Bedford Town II 3

Union struggled early on in their first hockey of 2002 against last season’s divisional runners-up. Union started well, but lapses in concentration led to the visitors grabbing two soft goals before half time. The second half saw further disaster when Bedford almost immediately added a third. This seemed to finally inspire the home side, and after an interchange between Taylor and Wolfe, Snelling’s shot was stopped on the line by a Bedford foot. The resulting penalty stroke was calmly converted by Harrison. Snelling added a second shortly afterwards with a very fine short corner strike, before a second stroke was given when Wolfe was fouled infront of an open goal. This time Taylor powered the ball home to level the scores. Unfortunately time ran out for the home side, who will have to be contentwith a single point.

12/01/02

 

 

Norwich Union II 1 Pelicans II 1

A game of two halves in which Dereham were the better side in the first half and N.U. rallied strongly in the second half. Dereham started the match by passing the ball well and N.U. struggled to adjust to the pace of the game as if suffering from post Christmas hangovers. Despite their possession Dereham did not create any clear cut openings before scoring the first goal of the game when a fairly soft shot from the edge of the area managed to elude the N.U. defenders and goalkeeper. After half time N.U. shook off their lethargy, managing to keep possession for longer spells and stretch the Dereham defence with stylish link up play. Following sustained pressure N.U. finally scored after McQuade helped a goal bound shot by Searle over the line. N.U. continued to press hard for the winning goal until the end of the game but were thwarted by a combination of good work by the Dereham goalkeeper and some resolute defending.

Division Five North East

12/01/02

 

 

Norwich Union IV 3 Norfolk Nomads 2

Norwich Union IV twice came from behind with two goals from Tom Salmon before taking the lead against Nomads with an outstanding reverse-stick flick from Ollie Hewkin, and going onto win 3-2.

Division Two North

15/12/01

 

 

Norwich Union 4 Spalding 1

Union took maximum points against an under-strength Spalding side, to leave them at the top of the table during the Christmas break, and well-placed to push for promotion. Wolfe opened the scoring after just a few minutes, and Green quickly added a second. This led to a period of relaxation, and Spalding squeezed a short corner home to get one back. They then defended well to have a half-time score of 2-1, and continued this into the second half. Snelling then added Union’s third from an exceptionally well-taken short corner, before Alex Brown calmly scored his first for the first team.

Division Two North

1/12/01

 

 

Broadland 2 Norwich Union 4

Broadland opened the scoring in this local derby from a sharp break. Union played a solid possession game against the counter-attacking of their opponents, and this paid off when Green slotted home from short range after approach work from Wolfe. Wolfe then added one of his own to give the visitors a narrow interval lead, and after the break put them further ahead. Broadland got one back from a short corner and then piled on the pressure in the hunt for a point. The tactic backfired towards the end though as the quest to push forward left them exposed at the back, and Snelling put the result beyond question.

Division Two North

24/11/01

 

 

Norwich Union 1 Ipswich & East Suffolk II 3

The scoreline failed to reflect the dominance of the home side in this division 2 fixture. IES generated only a handful of chances throughout the game, but converted them well, whilst Union couldn’t find a way to breach the visitors defence. It was, however, Union that took the lead in the opening moments of the game through Snelling after good work from Green. This led to a lapse in concentration though, and IES soon equalised. They then established an interval lead through a second successful short corner. In the closing stages as Union threw players forward they were caught on the break to give an unflattering scoreline.

Division Two North

17/11/01

 

 

Bourne II 1 Norwich Union 1

Another weak first half performance was matched with an equally strong second half for Union. A sense of panic developed early on for no real reason, and possession was given away a lot by the Norwich side, and this eventually led to a short corner conversion for Bourne. After the interval though, the visitors put together a much stronger performance and were unlucky not to win the game after creating a good number of chances. The only goal for Union was scored by Taylor in open play

Division Two North

10/11/01

 

 

Norwich Union 3 St. Neots 1

A strong return to form saw Union play some dominating hockey, controlling the majority of the game. St Neots defended well, but it was just a matter of time before the first Union goal came – a short range finish from Snelling. The visitors held this score line until half time, but leaked a second goal when Wolfe surprised the St. Neots defence with a shot from the top of the circle. Green added the third soon after, but St Neots continued to play well, and managed to pull a goal back as the Union team tired a little. Injuries to Harrison and Cox were the only blemish in this performance.

Division Two North

3/11/01

 

 

Cambridge City II 2 Norwich Union 1

A truly disappointing first half performance cost the visitors the points in a game they should have won. The early season wins had led to a degree of over-confidence, and it was Cambridge who looked like the more hungry of the two teams. The home side played the better hockey and were far more competitive throughout. Union found themselves two goals down at half time, and from there struggled to get back into the match. The performance in the second half was better, but it was only a late consolation when Wolfe scored from one of very few opportunities.

Division Two North

27/10/01

 

 

Norwich Union 4 Felixstowe 2

Union needed a wake-up call, and Felixstowe obliged as they scored against the run of play to put the visitors ahead. Union quickly levelled through Taylor before Snelling and Green changed the scoreline to 3-1 at half time. Felixstowe got a glimmer of hope from a converted penalty stroke, before Green closed out the game for the divisional leaders.

EHA Trophy Round One

21/10/01

 

 

Norwich Union 3 Pelicans 4

Union entertained the twice-winners of this national competition, and acquitted themselves well in a close contest. Pelicans took the lead in the 1st half, somewhat against the run of play, but Union equalised (Taylor) before conceding a second just before half time. In the second half Union came out and played some of their best hockey of the season, with Snelling adding two more goals to his tally – both after good work from Roberts. Finally though it was the superior fitness and finishing of the visiting side that saw them through to the next round, scoring two goals in two minutes in the final stages of the game.

Division Two North

20/10/01

 

 

Royston 2 Norwich Union 4

Union took early charge of this game, but were surprised by a Royston counter-attack which put the home side in the lead. Union then reasserted control and pulled level through Harrison to even things up at half time. After the break Union continued to pile on the pressure and went further ahead through Snelling and Taylor. Royston were then awarded a penalty stroke which they converted, but this was very much against the run of play, and Union duly went to the other end and scored through Taylor to seal the win.

Division Two North

13/10/01

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Shefford & Sandy 0

Norwich Union continued their good form in North League 2 with a solid win over Shefford and Sandy. The game was expected to be close, and it was a surprise when Snelling converted for Norwich Union barely a minute in to the game after some good build up play. The game then formed a pattern with Norwich Union applying heavy pressure, while Shefford defended in depth, with the odd break away attack. Both sides missed a few opportunites, going in at half time with just a single goal between the sides. The second half started at a slow pace, until an injury forced NU to settle and start to pass the ball, with Matt Taylor playing a leading role. Shefford became frustrated and tempers started to fly and it wasn’t long before a second goal followed from a good run and cross by Rouse that Snelling forced over the goal line.

Division Two North

6/10/01

 

 

Bedford Town II 0 Norwich Union 3

Not as convincing as the previous week, the visitors ground out the sort of performance they will need to challenge for honours this season against the reigning runners up. The home team were not as strong as in the past, and Union took full advantage of the majority of possession to go one ahead at the interval through a Harrison short corner. Bedford were effectively limited to desperate defending for the majority of the game with the occassional long ball counter attack. Union struggled to breach this determined resistance but still managed to put two more chances away through Snelling and Jones.

Division Two North

29/09/01

 

 

Spalding 0 Norwich Union 5

Having lost heavily in the corresponding fixture last season, Union were keen to show the strength of their new-look side. The benefits of new coach Pete Thomas became immediately apparent as a strengthened defensive performance was added to the usual ability going forward. A number of chances came early in the match, but poor finishing seemed to reveal some early season nerves. This was soon put to rest as Harrison got his first league goal for the club from a well worked short corner. Snelling added a second very soon after to give a level of comfort before half time. Spalding came back strongly but the defence held well until after the break. As Spalding threw players forward they left themselves exposed to the counter attack, and Snelling got his second with a well taken early strike. Harrison then added his second before Snelling completed his hattrick.

 

Women’s

East Super League Division 1

16/3/02

 

 

Welwyn Garden City 1 Norwich Union 0

A disappointing result for Union, in a game where they did enough to earn at least a point. Union had their chances during the first half, with the tireless Lizzie Willimott making some excellent runs from midfield.

 

The second half saw Welwyn force Sieve Henderson into making some fine saves. The home team also missed a penalty flick midway through the half.

 

Leading scorer Gail Thomas hit the post with a powerful short corner strike, and Ali Gunton came close with a brilliant solo effort. It was not to be Union’s day, however, with Welwyn hitting them on the break with a well taken effort at the back post.

 

East Super League Division 1

9/3/02

 

 

Norwich Union 3 BBHC 1

Union eased any lingering relegation fears with a deserved victory at Pinebanks. They were shocked early on by BBHC’s early penetration, scoring from a short corner after just five minutes.

 

Union quickly composed themselves, with some pulsating runs down both wings, notably from Kylie Clarke. Having earnt a number of short corners, they got back on level terms just before the break, with a classy strike from Gail Thomas.

 

After the break Union kept up the pressure, and pulled ahead with another Lulu Thomas goal from a short corner. Further pressure saw Ali Gunton score a third to ensure a well deserved victory for the U’s. Again, an excellent team performance in difficult conditions at Pinebanks.

 

East Super League Division 1

23/2/02

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Peterborough 1

Union played some of there best hockey of the season in this tight encounter at Pinebanks, and were unfortunate to not take at least a point.

 

Kath Vick had an outstanding game at right defence, whilst keeper Sam Jelliff ensured Union remained in the game until the end, with some excellent shot stopping. Despite their workrate and determination however, Union conceded a goal with 5 minutes remaining, leaving themselves little time to equalise for what would have been a justified and well earnt draw.

 

Providing Union continue to show the same commitment and team spirit through the remainder of the season, any relegation fears should quickly be diminished.

 

East Super League Division 1

16/2/02

 

 

Bluehearts 0 Norwich Union 4

Union finally got a win under their belt, in this bottom of the table clash at Bluehearts. Union started brightly with three goals in the first fifteen minutes, with two goals for the injured Nat Beale and one on her return, by Helen Carrick, having been well set up by Sarah Wagstaff.

 

Union then relaxed either side of the break and allowed Bluehearts to gain confidence. Excellent work from debutant Rowan Graydon in defence, helped to ensure Union kept a clean sheet. A smartly taken effort from Gail Thomas towards the end, helped settle any Union nerves to ensure a comfortable and timely victory.

 

East Super League Division 1

9/2/02

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Broxbourne 2

Once again Union’s lack of fire power upfront proved to be the difference between the two teams. Whilst Union had a lot of pressure, and dominated play, particularly in the second half, it was the visitors who made their chances count, scoring midway through each half to take the points.

 

Despite excellent work from both Ali Gunton, Caroline Moloney and Lizzie Willimott, Union could not force the goal which would help restore their confidence. They need to continue to work hard to turn round this disappointing run of results.

 

East Super League Division 1

2/2/02

 

 

Thurrock 3 Norwich Union 1

Union started off by far the better team in this windy encounter at Canvey Island. The first 15 minutes saw good Union pressure, culminating in a goal from a short corner, a smart strike from Gail Thomas brilliantly converted at the post by Hazel Medler. Union then sat back however and allowed Thurrock back into the game with two quick strikes from short corners. Following an injury to keeper Sieve Henderson, Union recomposed themselves and were stronger up to the break.

 

Second half Union battled however they could not break Thurrock down, and eventually conceded a late penalty flick to the home team. Union now need to dig deep to avoid becoming dragged into a relegation battle.

 

East Super League Division 1

26/1/02

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Letchworth 2

Union had to soak up a lot of early pressure from 2nd place letchworth. The shots flooded in on Keeper Sam Jelliff, and Union eventually leaked a goal from Letchworth’s Cindy Dixon. Union held on until the last few seconds of the 1st half, when Mary Roache undercut to score from a short corener. Union steadied the ship admirably in the second half, with their attacking become more fluid, however they could not break down the Letchworth defence.

East Super League Division 1

19/1/02

 

 

Folkestone 3 Norwich Union 0

Union started the brighter of the two teams and created some early chances, however Folkestone scored the first mid way through the half from Kim Howes. Union were not disheartened and could have levelled things before the break following good work on the right by Ali Gunton.

 

The second half saw Union sit back a little too much and Folkestone began to create more chances. The clinical Kim Howes adding two more to her impressive tally this season, despite the best efforts of Union Keeper Sam Jelliff.

 

East Super League Division 1

8/12/01

 

 

Old Loughts 2 Norwich Union 1

Union took time to settle to the different surface at Old Loughts. By midway through the first half, they had conceded two goals in quick succession. Union began to settle and earnt a number of short corners, both Gail Thomas and Doris Beal came close to reducing the deficit. Union made more chances in the second half and finally pulled one back 10 minutes before the end. A run and cross by Hannah Austin on the right, was excellently converted by Nicola Cage. Despite their pressure, Union were unable to salvage what would have been a deserved point.

East Super League Division 1

1/12/01

 

 

Norwich Union 4 Welwyn Garden City 1

Union displayed their best performance of the season in this 4 -1 victory at Pinebanks. Having had much of the early play, Union went ahead in the 10th minute with a goal from Hannah Austin. Shortly after Hazel Medler made it 2 with a well taken effort. Union continued to create chances up until, and then after the break – their pace and movement in attack, being the difference to previous weeks performances. Nat Beale extended their lead with a smart strike from a short corner. Welwyn threatened to come back, with a goal midway through the half, however Union were relentless, and the impressive Nicola Cage sealed victory with a well deserved 4th.Union need to take this confidence through to the christmas break.

East Super League Division 1

24/11/01

 

 

St. Ives 1 Norwich Union 1

Union had late selection problems, and were extrememly grateful to Kelly Page and Paddy Macevoy for travelling to St Ives. Unions defence had to be alert from the start and keeper Susan Henderson had to be at her best, making some fine stops. Union began to put pressure on the St Ives defence and scored just before the break, a Nat Beale strike was neatly deflected by Kelly Page. Again Union had to soak up some pressure, Gail Thomas and Lizzie Willimott doing particularly well. St Ives scored midway through the half for what was probably a fair result on the day.

East Super League Division 1

17/11/01

 

 

Norwich Union 1 St. Albans 3

Union had to soak up a tremendous amount of pressure early on, and once again the defence were outstanding, particularly Hazel Medler and Rachel Clarke. Against the run of play Union took the lead, a smart cross from Lynne Price was well converted at the far post by Kath Vick. St Albans then came back strongly scoring twice before the break.

 

Union stepped up the tempo after the break, with Kath Vick again going close on the back post. St Albans then scored another from a penalty flick. Union applied more pressure and a rasping shot from Gail Thomas, earnt Union a penalty flick. Unfortunately Sarah Wagstaff’s effort was saved by the keeper.

 

East Super League Division 1

27/10/01

 

 

Broxbourne 1 Norwich Union 0

Union deserved more from this game. Ali Gunton, on her return to first team action, showed neat skills and almost beat the keeper in the first half. Broxbourne scored from a short corner. Despite good work from Hazel Medler and Lizzie Willimott, Union could not break down the Broxbourne defence and went home disappointed.

East Super League Division 1

20/10/01

 

 

BBHC 0 Norwich Union 0

Union battled gamely and possibly deserved more from this game. Lynne Price was again outstanding in the centre of midfield, whilst debutant Goalkeeper Sam Jelliff, played well to ensure Union earnt a point.

East Super League Division 1

13/10/01

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Folkestone 6

Union were outplayed by top of the table Folkestone. The writing was on the wall after just the first minute when Folkestone took the lead. Folkestone centre forward Kim Howes was outstanding, scoring all 6 goals, in an outstanding team performance.Union need to bounce back next week BBHC.

East Super League Division 1

6/10/01

 

 

Letchworth 2 Norwich Union 2

Union had to endure a period of intense pressure in the first half against League leaders Letchworth, as ever though , Unions defence were outstanding. Against the run of play, Union scored from a short corner which was clinically finished by Helen Carrick on her return. The second half was a much more even affair, however Letchworth scored twice. Union continued to battle hard though and their efforts were rewarded following a run on the right by ‘man of the match’ Lizzie Willimott, who crossed for Gail Thomas to cooly slot home, with just two minutes to spare

East Super League Division 1

29/09/01

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Thurrock 0

Union had to battle hard against a well organised Thurrock team. The first half saw few chances from either team. Union debutant Nat Beal had Unions best opportunity in the second half with a smart strike, forcing a save from the keeper. Union defended efficiently, with Lizzie Willimott and Angela Murgatroyd working hard as ever to ensure parity. A hard earnt point for Union

East Super League Division 1

22/09/01

 

 

Norwich Union 3 Old Loughts 0

An encouraging start to the season for Union, begininng with a comfortable victory at Pinebanks. Kath Vick opened the scoring on her return to Norwich Union, following good work from Sarah Wagstaff. Union continued to pressure in the first half but failed to convert this pressure to goals. Hazel Medler scored from a finely struck short corner from Gail Thomas early in the second half. A brilliant solo effort from Nicola Cage sealed the points and a deserved victory for Union.
2000-2001 Season

Men’s

Division 2 North

31/03/01

Norwich Union 4 Spalding 4

Union started with purpose, but lacking some of the necessary subtlety. However, after a varied first 10 minutes the home side settled down and started to convert their pressure and possession into opportunities. At half time Union were 3-1 ahead through Wolfe (2) and Snelling. This domination was set to continue for most of the second half, and York-Smith added a fourth to seemingly put the game out of Spalding’s reach. Union then went to sleep, assuming the game was won and conceded some soft goals, with the equaliser coming just before time.

 

Division 3 North East

31/03/01

Pelicans II 2 Norwich Union II 4

Pelican’s started the game with only 10 men and Union duly took the lead when Parsons followed up a well saved shot from Gill. The home team were soon up to a full team but Union were playing with confidence and doubled their lead when Parsons was again in the right place to slot home. Pelican’s had a number of short corners but a combination of poor finishing and good keeping by Ellis kept them at bay. Union got their third when Gill found McQuade in space and he confidently rounded the keeper and slotted home. Just before the end of the half Union made it 4-0 with a wonderfully disguised flick from Older. In the 2nd half Union were happy to sit on their lead but Pelican’s kept fighting and managed to pull 2 goals back, with their keeper making some inspired saves to stop McQuade adding to Union’s tally.

 

Division 4 North East

31/03//01

Norwich Union III 1 Bury St. Edmunds IV 1

A close fought end of season encounter with both sides taking a while to get going. After a scoreless first half Bury took the lead after a good shot from Morgan. Union battled back & when it seemed their efforts were going to go unrewarded Wilson popped up on the stroke of time to secure a point.

 

Division 3 North East

10/03/01

Lowestoft Town 3 Norwich Union II 3

A poor first half from Union left them trailing by 1 goal which soon became 3 after the break. However a spirited comeback saw Union score 3 goals in the final 20 minutes and almost snatch a winner. Norwich Union’s goal scorers were Green (2) and Snelling .

 

Division 4 North East

10/03//01

Norwich Union III 3 Waveney 2

Norwich Union took an early lead from a short corner when Mike Banham put the injector Simon Garner clear at the near post. The lead was squandered when Union gave away a sloppy free hit and Roger Kemp was left unmarked in front of the keeper. After half time a fine Union move was rounded off by Chris Cox returning to hockey for his first game in 2001. Another short corner variation saw Carl Allred sneak in on the near post to put Union further ahead. Fine defensive work by Union keeper Chris Miller and skipper Banham, who turned 2 short corners around the post, kept Waveney at bay until Roger Kemp some how managed to get on the end of a cross. Union had a converted short corner disallowed but held on to another victory

 

Division 2 North

24/02/01

Royston 0 Norwich Union 5

The achievement of the team’s second clean sheet was notable from this division 2 game. Union dominated the entirety of the game, and soonopened the scoring through Green, following some nice passing interchanges. Wolfe added a second from a similar move shortly afterwards, before Snelling struck twice to set up a 4 goal lead at the interval. Better concentration from Royston, and a mixture of poorer finishing and a more defensive outlook meant Union only added one more in the second half through Wolfe.

 

Division 3 North East

24/02/01

Norwich Union II 1 University of East Anglia 0

This was a close game with neither side having many open play chances due to some solid defending at both ends. Most of the chances came from short corners with UEA coming close several times but failing to convert. The 2nd half was much the same as the first with the majority of play in the middle of the field and again the chances came from short corners. Midway through the second a converted short corner by UEA was disallowed. The game was looking like a draw until Union were awarded a short corner in the dying seconds and Bingham smashed home with the last hit of the game.

 

Division 2 North

13/01/01

Cambridge City II 3 Norwich Union 4

The home team played the more attractive hockey in this first fixture after the break, but the superior finishing of the visitors clinched the points. City took a 2 goal lead into the interval as Union struggled to get the journey out of their legs. Snelling pulled one back shortly after the break though, and the rattled home side soon conceded another through Wolfe as the pressure was piled on. Cambridge then retook the lead and held it that way until shortly before the end. Wolfe then added his second to level the scores, and from there on it seemed inevitable that Union would take all three points – achieved when Snelling got his second.

 

Division 3 North East

13/01/01

Norwich Union II 3 Broadland II 0

Union took their time to get going after the mid season break and failed to score in the first half from a number of good chances. However the score remained 0-0 due to the solid Union defence of Bingham, Wilkinson and Searle. After the break Union came out positively and it wasn’t long before they opened their account for 2001 when McQuade won a short corner which was hammered into the goal by Bingham. Almost immediately the lead was doubled when a long ball by Brooks found McQuade who in turn set up Birch to slot comfortably home for his first of the season. McQuade then made it three after following up Sinclair’s flick to effectively end the game and finish Union’s long spell without a victory.

 

Division 4 North East

13/01/01

Dereham III 5 Norwich Union III 0

The first half of this match was a close fought affair, Dereham narrowly shaving it one nil. Ten minutes into the 2nd half and two deflections later Dereham were 3-0 and full of confidence. Dereham went on to score another two well worked goals, Union failed to trouble the Dereham keeper after halftime.

 

 

Division 2 North

9/12/00

 

 

St. Neots 3 Norwich Union 3

The visitors conceded three early goals with some shockingly naive marking, but after this 15 minute nightmare, managed to turn the game around. First half goals from Snelling, Kemp and Wolfe restored parity, and Union then settled into a fine second half of dominance, but failed to convert. A number of excellent chances went begging, with Snelling in particular unlucky not to add more after hitting both crossbar and post. Brown also had some good chances, but in the end the game finished level.

 

Division 3 North East

9/12/00

 

 

Norwich Union II 2 Norwich City II 3

The first half of this match went against the form book with high flying City forced to defend an onslaught of Union attacks. Both Brooks and McQuade were denied by excellent saves from the City keeper whilst Older managed to beat the keeper only to see his shot go agonisingly wide, leaving Union wondering why the game was still goalless at half-time. In the second half City came out stronger and during one break managed to squeeze the ball past Union’s keeper from an acute angle. City then played their best hockey of the game and went two up when a deflected shot left Ellis stranded for the second time in two weeks. City’s third followed soon after with a simple tap in after a broken down short corner. Union then showed a spirit lacking in previous weeks and fought back, eventually getting a goal when Garrood slotted home from a yard. Jones then got Union’s after another good move before the whistle went on an entertaining derby.

 

Division 4 North East

9/12/00

 

 

Broadland III 0 Norwich Union III 4

A rampant Allred helped Union brush away the Broadland challenge. Union were 2-0 up by half time thanks to two goals from Allred who along with young Gill & Garner run rings round the Broadland defence. After half tme several chances came & went before Wilson & Garner sealed a comfortable win .

 

Division 2 North

2/12/00

 

 

Norwich Union 3 Bedford Town II 3

Bedford took an early lead, and pushed this further to be two goals ahead at the interval. Union threatened brief periods of resistance, but couldn’t put any significant attacks together. The second half started much better for the home team, when Jones bundled the ball home after some sustained pressure. Kemp then levelled the score with an excellent strike, but Bedford took advantage of some slack defending to win a short corner, which was duly converted. However, a ball through to Snelling saw the Union striker upended in the circle – winning a penalty stroke. Taylor converted to level the score and Union held out to take a share of the points.

 

Division 3 North East

2/12/00

 

 

Harleston Magpies III 3 Norwich Union II 1

Both teams started this game brightly creating a number of chances before Harleston gained the upper hand and opened the scoring with a well taken goal. Harleston’s second came from short an innocuous short corner strike which Kay unfortunately deflected over his own keeper. Union then showed some determination and started the second half positively applying a lot of pressure on the Harleston defence. Union’s pressure finally paid off, albeit with a bit of fortune, when Robbie Kay opened his account for the club with a well struck short corner which was deflected into the roof of the net. The game then became a battle and towards the end of the game, with Union reduced to 10 men after a moment of madness, Harleston secured the points.

 

Division 4 North East

2/12/00

 

 

Norwich Union III 2 Norwich City III 4

After taking an early lead through Ribbons, Union relaxed & City took control, City made it 1-1 at half time & extended that to 3-1 by midway through the 2nd half. Union woke up late on pulling back one through Garner & then missing a good chance for an equaliser before City sealed their win with a 4th with 3 minutes to go.

 

Division 6 North East

2/12/00

 

 

Broadland IV 1 Norwich Union IV 1

A much tougher match than anticipated for the visitors, who were hit from the start by a succession of blistering attacks by Broadland, created and led by a core of players freed from their second team. Caught on the backfoot by the home attack, Union took a long time to get their rhythm going, and were glad to go into the interval at 0-0. A much more positive second period for the visitors, and a number of incisive runs were rewarded when leading scorer Andy Deacon slotted a shot home. Deacon featured again shortly afterwards, when a mis-hit strike at goal struck him in the eye, forcing him to retire to hospital with a broken nose. Broadland gained the initiative after the restart, and after some concerted pressure got a deserved equaliser. Union had their chances to win it at the death, but in the end it was a fair result, and a blow to their title hopes.

 

Division 2 North

25/11/00

 

 

Gorleston 1 Norwich Union 3

Both sides were missing key players, but the strength of Norwich Union’s depth shone through as the visitors took an early lead through Snelling. Concerted pressure led to numerous chances throughout the game, and Jones finally put Union two ahead for the interval scoreline. Gorleston then fired a superb strike into the net to pull one back, but this was a small hiccup in the domination of possession. Union could easily have scored half a dozen more goals before Jones restored the two goal advantage.

 

Division 3 North East

25/11/00

 

 

Norwich Union II 2 Lowestoft Town 2

Union were unlucky to goal a goal down after Town scored from a contested penalty stroke. This inspired Union to play some of their best hockey for a number of weeks and they equalised through Parsons. Union took the lead through Brooks and continued to dominate the play. They should have taken the points but, not for the first time this season, they were caught on the break with 2 minutes to go when Town equalised.

 

Division 4 North East

25/11/00

 

 

Waveney 4 Norwich Union III 0

Norwich Unions defence was weakened by injury and absence and with some luck managed to hold out for 20 minutes, but Waveneys attacking options from midfield eventually saw them create two well worked goals. Possession throughout was even but Waveney still created the better chances and scored two more second half goals. An instinctive save by Waveneys’ keeper prevented Union scoring a consolation goal.

 

Division 6 North East

25/11/00

 

 

Norwich Union IV 4 Lowestoft Railway III 1

A barnstorming performance from a Union side stripped to the bare bones by the absence of several key players. With a particular deficiency in defence, the home team played an unusual 3-4-3 formation, and the extra space at the back was soon exploited by a Lowestoft side on one of their characteristic quick breaks. Going a goal down seemed to galvanise Union, and after concerted pressure they levelled the scores before the interval through a sweet strike from Andy Deacon, back on the scoring trail. The visitors started the second half more aggressively, but the prospect of going down to 10 men (and two natural defenders) fired the home team up, and in a devastating 15 minute burst put three more past a shell-shocked Lowestoft defence, with goals from Andy Key, Jimmy Matthews and goal-machine Deacon. 10-man Union then mounted a resolute rearguard action, with notable efforts from Key and press-ganged defender Andy Hollis, to claim a hard-won victory.

 

EHA Trophy Round Two

19/11/00

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Epsom 4

A very strong visiting side from the south didn’t have the game all their own way in this second round HA Trophy game. They took an early lead as Union showed a degree of inexperience and a willingness to let the visiting team play the way they wanted. A two goal lead at half time was a fair reflection of events. However, after a change in tactics at half time, Union pressed Epsom hard and were unlucky not to convert pressure into goals during a 20-minute spell of dominance. Chasing the game inevitably led to tiring legs, and two late strikes completed Epsom’stransition to the next round of the competition.

 

Division 2 North

18/11/00

 

 

Norwich Union 0 Harleston Magpies II 1

A very keenly contested game seemed to be heading for an inevitable draw until Gavin Cole slotted home for the visitors five minutes from time. Until that point it had been an intriguing game, with both teams displaying a good knowledge of each other’s game. The pressure game of Harleston was nicely balanced against the counter-attacking style of Union.

 

Division 3 North East

18/11/00

 

 

Bury St. Edmunds II 3 Norwich Union II 1

Union got of to a positive start in the game with a number of good chances during which Moulson hit the post but conceded via a well struck short corner. Union again pressured at the start of the second half and were rewarded with a penalty stroke which McQuade converted. Bury then reacted quickly following a long corner and snatched back the advantage.

Bury got their third towards the end of the game and Union didn’t look like getting back into it.

 

Division 4 North East

18/11/00

 

 

Norwich Union III 4 Bury St. Edmunds III 2

After an even opening Union gifted Bury an opening goal, spurred on by this Bury doubled their advantage by halftime. Inspired by young Gill Union staged a 2nd half comeback. Allred poked home the 1st & Banham levelled with a cool headed flick after good work by Garner. Union continued to press with Allred making merry down the right. Morris deflected home the third & Allred nailed his 2nd & the teams 4th to cap an excellent team

 

Division 6 North East

18/11/00

 

 

Norwich Union IV 2 Bury St. Edmunds V 2

A tough test for Union after last week’s break, as they brought out the best performance from yet another visiting side. The home team started strongly, helped by the late arrival of a number of Bury players, but failed to convert the early chances. The visitors soon took advantage, as the new look Union defence struggled to deal with some impressive counter-attacks, and Bury put away two goals before the break, against the run of play. The game was actually much more even in the second half, and the home side had to withstand sustained pressure, with new boy Craig Elliot particularly impressive. Union did manage to turn things round however, and hard work up front was finally rewarded with the first goals of the season for Olly Hewkin and Jimmy Matthews. The home team were disappointed not to take all three points, but will have taken heart from their gutsy comeback.

 

Division 2 North

11/11/00

 

 

Norwich Union 6 Royston 3

Union made the visitors pay heavily in the first 15 minutes and quicklytook a four goal lead through Thompson, Cox (2) and Jones. Royston finally managed to co-ordinate a counter-attack and got one back just before the interval. Union continued to dominate the second half, but inevitably failed to maintain 100% concentration. Royston added two goals through short corners, but Union maintained their advantage through a second goal from Jones and one from Wolfe.

 

Division 3 North East

11/11/00

 

 

UEA 4 Norwich Union II 1

Union were outplayed by a younger and fitter side in this Division 3 North East game. UEA took the lead early on and got another midway through the first half. Union the had their best period of the game where they got a goal back through good interplay between the veterans Price and Thomas with the later finishing of the move. Union conceded another early in the second half and towards the end of the game were caught on the break for UEA to score their fourth.

 

Division 4 North East

11/11/00

 

 

Dereham II 6 Norwich Union III 0

After an even first 20 mins Dereham were gifted a goal, this served to inspire them to take control of the game. Two further goals before halftime stamped their authority of the game. The 2nd period was dominated by Dereham who scored 3 further goals including two flicks.

 

Division 2 North

4/11/00

 

 

Felixstowe 3 Norwich Union 2

An umpiring administration error probably cost Norwich Union this match as they were forced to use one of their players as umpire in this closely contested game. Union fought from one down to lead 2 -1 until the last ten minutes, when Felixstowe hit back with 2 goals against the tiring visitors. Snelling again proving lethal in front of goal, and claiming both goals.

 

Division 3 North East

4/11/00

 

 

Norwich Union II 0 Broadland 4

A weakened and indisciplined Union side tasted defeat for the first time in thirty one league matches. Broadland took the lead midway through the first half and added another 3 towards the end of the game.

 

Division 4 North East

4/11/00

 

 

Norwich Union III 1 Harleston IV 1

Magpies opened the scoring through Smith in the first few minutes of the games, but for a couple of good saves from Manning Magpies would have extended their lead. Union battled back in the 2nd half & finally got their equaliser with the last action of the game, the cool head of Banham slotting home a penalty flick.

 

Division 6 North East

4/11/00

 

 

Norwich Union IV 0 Harleston VI 0

A cold evening game, but for once no cold start from a Union team looking to put themselves in a strong position before next week’s forced rest. The home side camped out in Harleston’s 25 for much of the first quarter but could find no way past the visitors’ resolute defence. After that, the game became much more open, and both teams made some impressive attacking runs without ever troubling the goalkeepers. Union were disappointed with a point from this top of the table clash, but know they have to shape up in front of goal. Roll on the 18th!

 

EHA Trophy Round One

22/10/00

 

 

Sudbury 2 Norwich Union 3

Union, missing 6 regular first team players, managed to humble their Division 1 opposition with a gutsy display of direct hockey. The defensive unit of Brooks, Kelsall, Quinton and Latoy were dependable, with Taylor doing an unbelievable amount of work in the midfield. Union took the lead through a Snelling short corner, before conceding two goals to Sudbury. Snelling added a second, after good individual work, and along with Browne threatened the home side’s prospects of progression in this competition throughout the second half. The final blow was struck by Older, who tucked the ball past the advancing keeper late in the second half.

Division 2 North

21/10/00

 

 

Shefford & Sandy 2 Norwich Union 2

Wolfe scored early in the first half to set the visitors up for some of their best hockey of the league campaign so far, a lead that was taken into the second half. Snelling added a second from an excellent short corner, before Shefford and Sandy quickly struck one back. Union continued to dominate the play, but the quick forwards of the home side continued to be a danger. This finally turned into disappointment for Union as they conceded a short corner as the final whistle blew, and this was converted to force a share of the points.

Division 3 North East

21/10/00

 

 

Norwich Union II 2 Lowestoft Railway 2

In a tough game, Union took the lead when Pete Thomas was set free from and slotted past the keeper to score his first Union goal. Railway battled back and equalised later in the half. In the second half Union raised their game and had a number of chances before Thomas got his second from a short corner. Union then should have sealed the points but in the dying miuntes they were reduced to 10 men and Lowestoft managed to snatch the equaliser.

Division 4 North East

21/10/00

 

 

UEA II 3 Norwich Union III 2

A close fought encounter, Union taking the lead through Allred after good work by Ribbons. UEA hit back with a goal soon after only for Banham to restore Union’s lead with a flick on half time. In the 2nd half Union were under a large amount of pressure, just when it seemed the game wa s won UEA equalised & then proceeded to score from a short corner right on full time.

Division 6 North East

21/10/00

 

 

Norwich Union IV 2 Pelicans IV 1

A much stiffer test for a Union side buoyed by last week’s turnover of North Walsham. A delayed start seemed to help the visitors, who started the brighter, without ever threatening to score. Mounting home pressure finally told when the ever-reliable Andy Bingham struck home from a short corner. The second half started as the first, with Pelicans denied by a series of fine saves from keeper Robbie Whiting, but a mis-hit shot sent him the wrong way and rolled into the corner of the goal. Union showed determination to re-establish their dominance, and were rewarded for their hard work when new boy Andy Deacon found the goal for the fourth time in two games, thanks to a clever turn of his marker. Another encouraging step on the promotion trail.

Division 2 North

14/10/00

 

 

Norwich Union 2 Bourne II 2

Norwich Union were at their best in the first half, with the Keeper being drawn from his line twice and Rupert Snelling scoring both goals. Second half Bourne scored from a splendid short corner with the ball going inoff the bar. This was closely followed with a free hit on the 16 yard line which was deflected pass Jim Woodruff the Union keeper with no chance of a save. The result gave Union their first point of the season.

Division 3 North East

14/10/00

 

Holt 0 Norwich Union II 1

Union continued their good start to the season with a hard earned victory over a good Holt side. Union came close to taking the lead in the first half when a short corner strike was disallowed but continued to play positively. Union started the second half brightly and took a deserved lead when Jones slipped the ball to Gill who slotted it past the impressive Holt keeper. Union then had chances to seal the game but missed a number of oppurtunites. Holt applied the pressure towards the end of the game but Unions defense ensured victory went to the visitors.

Division 4 North East

14/10/00

Norwich Union III 1 Lowestoft Railway II 0

A fine all round team performanced secure a second consecutive victory. Union controlled much of the game with managing to win a single short corner. Midway through the 2nd half Ribbons latched on to a loose ball to notch the winner. Despite an excellant display from Allred no further goals were forthcoming.

Division 6 North East

14/10/00

 

North Walsham II 1 Norwich Union IV 6

Union dominated the early exchanges and scored through a Bingham short corner after 5 mins. Andy Deacon who was playing his first game for NU then scored a hatrick after finding himself in the right place at the right time on three occasions. Walsham did generate numerous chances put could not finish. Danny Molineux scored the 5th goal just before half time after Walsham had opened their account with a well taken short corner. The second half was more evenly contested and Union scored a sixth goal through a spectacular individual goal from Bradley Rose who beat 5 players before slotting the ball away from the most acute angle from the left.

Division 2 North

7/10/00

Spalding 6 Norwich Union 1

Norwich Union produced a poor performance, where Richard Moulson scored their goal and Christopher Cox had an impressive debut.

Division 3 North East

7/10/00

Norwich Union II 2 Pelicans II 2

After gifting Pelicans the lead McQuade equalised from a penalty flick and Older put them 2-1 up. Union spurned further chances and were punished by a late equaliser.

Division 4 North East

7/10/00

Bury IV 0 Norwich Union III 1

The goal came midway through the second half after Wilson weaved his way through the Bury defence.. Excellent work by Medlar helped secure the lead..

Division 2 North

30/9/00

Norwich Union 0 Cambridge City II 1

Both sides pressured early on, failing to finish their chances. Cambridge took the lead midway through the second half with a hotly disputed goal. Despite intense Union resolve the equaliser remained unforthcoming. Penalty corner specialist Snelling came closest, firing narrowly over the bar.

Division 3 North East

30/9/00

 

Broadland II 1 Norwich Union II 3

A first half dominated by the visitors was illustrated by Parsons’ two converted penalty strokes. In the second half Broadland pressure reduced the arrears. A late debut goal by Jamie Older following fine work by skipper Brooks secured the win for newly promoted Norwich Union.

Women’s

East Super League Division 1

3/02/01

 

St. Ives 1 Norwich Union 0

Union won the moral victory in this hard fought encounter at St Ives, but unfortunately came away with no points. Without the services of Lynne Price due to injury, Union started brightly gaining some good early pressure following good work by Sal Benton. St Ives came back into the game, however and scored midway through the first half with a well taken effort, which beat the tough Union defence. Some good runs by Wendy Latoy upfront and usual solid defence by Hazel Medler inparticular, ensured Union were always in with a chance of earning a point, however time ran out on the visitors. Union can be proud of their work rate and excellent team spirit.

East Super League Division 1

9/12/00

Norwich Union 1 Broxbourne 0

The final league game of the year saw Union take the points in a game where a draw would probably have been a fair result. Union started the game without Sarah Wagstaff at sweeper, however replacement Rachael Clarke had an impressive game in the heart of the defence. The first half saw Union having most of the play, earning a number of short corners. Union scored from the best move of the match, working the ball across the pitch, culminating in a fine strike from Gail Thomas.Whilst the keeper smothered the ball, it threatened to cross the line; an infringement on the line earnt Union a penalty flick which was well converted by Wendy Latoy. Union then soaked up pressure from Broxbourne, and held out to earn a valuable 3 points, to cap an impressive first half of the season.

East Super League Division 1

2/12/00

 

Chelmsford II 1 Norwich Union 1

Union were under pressure very early on and went a goal down within the first 5 minutes to top of the table Chelmsford. Union had to dig deep and were grateful to their strong defence yet again, with particular mention going to Hazel Medler and Sieve Henderson. Having weathered the storm Union began to press, with good work on the right by Gail Thomas and Ali Gunton. Union equalised from a short corner strike by Lynne Price which the keeper stopped, however Gail Thomas reacted quickly to plant the ball neatly inside the left post. The second half was an even affair with chances at both ends, but a draw was a fair result. Teamwork and determination continue to be the key to Union’s success this season.

East Super League Division 1

25/11/00

Norwich Union 2 Welwyn Garden City 1

Union played some good hockey first half, but failed to turn this pressure into goals. Union were aided by the return of Lynne Price and the excellent work rate of Sal Benton and Ted Rogers. Second half saw Union take the lead with a sharp effort converted smartly by Sal Benton. Welwyn then broke quickly and earnt a short corner from which they were awarded a flick following an infringement on the line. Union ‘keeper Sieve Henderson was inches away from maitaining the lead. Union continued to dominate however and scored from a well worked free hit, Liz Willmott passing to Lynne Price who struck the ball home from the edge of the circle, to seal a deserved victory.

Friendly

11/11/00

Norwich Union 1 Dereham 0

Both clubs took advantage of the break in league games to partake in a tough friendly fixture at Pinebanks. Union played some of their best hockey of the season for the first 20 minutes, making this pressure count from a short corner routine finished in style by Sal Benton. Dereham had a strong spell at the end of the first half, but fine defence from Rachael , on her first team debut,and Sarah Wagstaff, ensured Union kept another clean sheet. Union need to build on this impressive display by taking this confidence to Cambridge on Saturday.