Hempnall 2 Downham Town 1
Hempnall, writes Ray Youngman, were at home to Downham Town on a cold afternoon but were well prepared for their Ridgeons League opponents. Right from the start Hempnall were well in control of their game. With Sam Wenham absent through illness Ben Player made his return and the skipper was soon to take control in midfield.
Hempnall continued to push forward and created a few half chances and just before the interval they were awarded a free kick out on the left which found Paul Franklin well positioned to powerfully head home from some twelve yards out from the goal.
The second half continued in a similar vein with Hempnall looking for a second goal which came after just twelve minutes into the half they were awarded a penalty from which Paul Franklin easily beat the keeper.
By now Downham were stepping up their game as Hempnall were pushed back a little and Downham did manage to score.
The Hempnall defence did well to contain the now confident Downham team but held out to record a fine victory.
Perhaps the two cautions issued were a little harsh especially as the game was played in a good spirit throughout by both sides.
A lot of credit is due to the Hempnall Management and the players who despite all the injuries and unavailability have still managed to build a squad of players capable of playing at this level.
South Walsham 0 Hempnall Reserves 5
Hempnall Reserves, with several of the former youth team players in their team, recorded a good win at South Washam 5 - 0. (Richard Leather 2, Jon King 2, and Andy Guy 1). Manager Paul Sprong, in his first year in management, has at times had a few of his players out for various reasons but has had the benefit of the young players to call upon often late on a Saturday.
Hempnall Vererans 2 Hellesdon Veterans 3
Hempall Veterans, playing at home in a shield game, were probably a little unlucky to lose this closely fought game, espacially after Hellesdon had scored inside the first minute.
Adie Lee scored the first soon after and then the game fell away from Hempnall and they went 1-3 down. They then missed a penalty which could well have put the game into extra time.