Weekend Football Update - 15th & 16th February

A bitterly cold weekend brought out the Jekyll and Hyde in the performances of local teams.

King's Lynn FC slipped out of the play off places in the National League North after a 2-0 defeat at home to a resurgent Hereford FC at The Walks Stadium on Saturday. While it remains tight at the top, the Linnets will feel frustrated with their recent performance, having secured just one victory in their last five outings. Manager Adam Lakeland expressed his disappointment over missed opportunities, with Fin Barnes in particular guilty of a glaring miss from close range that could have changed the course of the game. Lakeland remarked, “I thought we played brilliantly in the second half. We created chances that we needed to convert, and ultimately it cost us.” King’s Lynn are at home to Oxford City tomorrow (Tuesday) evening (7.45pm Kick off).

Fin Barnes: photo Ian Burt

Heacham FC hosted Cornard United at their Station Road ground on Saturday, eager to exact revenge after being denied a last-minute penalty in their previous encounter, where Cornard triumphed 2-1. They say revenge is a dish best served cold, and on this chilly day, the Magpies were able to claim theirs with a 3-1 victory. Returning from injury, Toby Hilliard set the tone early by scoring a stunning goal in the opening minutes, and he netted a second midway through the first half. Cornard fought back in the second half with a well-taken free kick but Ben Dear sealed the win for Heacham with a late penalty. For those old enough to remember, the weather was reminiscent of the snowy conditions John Motson famously reported in wearing his trademark sheepskin coat in Wycombe back in 1990 (thankfully, caterers, BestBites were on hand at Heacham to provide their delicious burgers to help warm the spectators). Despite the tough conditions, Heacham's resolve shone through, particularly with goalkeeper Sam Pishorn stepping in for the unavailable Aaron Watson, displaying a classic "you won't get past me today" performance (apart from the solitary blip which he could do little about). Manager Paul Hunt praised the players' determination and work ethic, saying, “It was a great win against a team that hasn’t lost since October. It’s fantastic to see Toby back with a stunning strike and a super penalty from Ben to secure the points.” Heacham face Harleston twice this week, away tomorrow (Tuesday) evening and at home on Saturday.

In Division One of the Anglian Combination League, Dersingham Rovers continued their impressive form with a commanding 5-0 victory over Wells Town, propelling them to 3rd place in the table and firmly into the promotion race. The damage was inflicted by braces from Scott Sutherland-Gray and Sam Peck, along with a goal from Alex Tweed.

In Division Three, Ingoldisthorpe FC found themselves on the losing side of a thrilling 5-3 match against Easton Reserves. Their games are certainly entertaining, but defensive issues are becoming a significant weakness and an Achilles heel for the local outfit. Following Wells Town Reserves earning a point, Ingoldisthorpe are now joint bottom of the table.

In Division Four, Dersingham Reserves will be pleased to secure a point against promotion rivals Attleborough Town Reserves in the end, particularly after Hayden Neave was sent off. Goals from Jack Rix and Josh Seal ensured they salvaged a 2-2 draw.

In Division One of the North West Norfolk League, Dersingham Rovers ‘A’ struggled to a 3-2 victory against bottom side Marshland Saints Reserves. Goals from Zack Kingshott, Nath Mitchell, and Kris Smith seeing them over the line. Dersingham remain in 3rd place.

In Division Two, Heacham Minors Development FC's push for promotion took a slight hit as they suffered a narrow 3-2 loss against Gaywood FC, with a brace from Matt Skene falling just short of earning a point.