Mid-December Football update

All the action from the Heacham, Dersingham and Ingoldisthorpe teams

In the Thurlow Nunn Premier Division, Heacham FC returned from their long trip to Woodbridge Town with nothing to show for their efforts in a tight 1-0 loss, with just an own goal dividing the teams. The result now means the Magpies have been dragged back into a relegation battle, sitting perilously just four points off the drop zone in 16th place having played more games than all the teams below them. They face a crucial six pointer game at Stowmarket Town on Saturday, 21st December.

Manager, Paul Hunt, gave his view on the season so far to Town & Around, saying,, “It’s been an eventful first half of the season, and I wanted to take this opportunity to provide an update on the team's progress. The season certainly threw us a few curveballs early on, with a tough run of fixtures and a number of key injuries within the squad. However, I've been incredibly impressed with the way our players have responded. They've shown real dedication and commitment in training, working hard to develop as a team and adapt to the challenges. We've also been active in the transfer market, identifying and adding some quality players who we believe will strengthen the squad. I'm confident that we now have a really good group to move forward with. One of the most satisfying aspects of the first half of the season has been seeing the development of our young players. We've given them opportunities to shine, and they've grasped those chances with both hands. It's exciting to see their progress, and they are a real asset to the club. As we head into the second half of the season, there's a real sense of optimism and excitement within the squad. We're all determined to push on and achieve our goals. Finally, I want to express my sincere gratitude to our fantastic supporters, volunteers, committee, and chairman. Their unwavering support, especially during the challenging early weeks, has been truly appreciated. It creates a fantastic atmosphere and a real sense of unity, and myself and the players feel that we are all pulling in the same direction. We're all looking forward to an exciting second half of the season”.

In Division One of the Anglian Combination League, Dersingham Rovers managed to bag all three points in an excellent 4-3 win at Mutford & Wentham FC, the result now putting them right in the mix of the promotion places. Goals by Lewis Curson, Finn Howe, Dane Schmuda and Joseph Minns securing a key win.

An incredible game took place in Division Three as Ingoldisthorpe FC’s bad run of form continued with a home loss to Marshland Saints. Once again, the ‘Thorpe showed they are not shy in front of goal, and amazingly took a 4-0 lead, but their leaky defence yet again came back to haunt them as the visitors scored six goals without reply to win 6-4. Ingoldisthorpe remain stranded in the bottom two of the table. A brace from top goalscorer Dylan Ess and a goal apiece for Jake Ess and new signing Oscar Thomson not enough for the local outfit.

In Division Four, Dersingham Rovers Reserves had a comfortable 4-0 win against Braddenham & Mattishall Reserves as they move up to 5th place in the table. Goals from Roman Billiard, Charlie Congreve, Jack Rix and Adam Simmonds doing the damage.

In Division One of the North West Norfolk League, Ingoldisthorpe FC Reserves mirrored their first team’s efforts, managing to score four goals. But lapses at the back meant they conceded five in a nine goal thriller, leaving them rooted at the foot of the table. Anthony Rice (2), Shannon Herring-Blatch and Bradley Rix scoring.

In Division Two, Heacham Minors Development lost 2-1 at home to Wanderers FC to dent their promotion push.

In the Thurlow Nunn Youth League, other results meant Heacham FC U18’s slipped to 4th place in the table. However, they can return, temporarily, to the top if they can win at 5th placed FDL Rangers on Wednesday (18th Dec) evening.