Hempnall FC

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Hempnall travelled to in form Newton Flotman expecting a tough encounter as not only is it a local derby but manager Ross Potter was reacquainted with former Hethersett co manager Dan Gaskin and a number of ex Hethersett players from the great league winning / Carrow Road side.

Hempnall made changes with Jamie Pretty coming in to replace the injured Ross Potter, Tom Halliwell replacing Jack Tarrant, Gareth Downes replacing Lee Emmett and Kingo returning from swine flu to replace Quinnie up front. The transfer of Ashley Watson was completed in time so he was able to take a place on the bench.

The pitch was flooded in some areas so Hempnall knew grit and determination would be needed on a day where it would be difficult to play silky football.

Hempnall started the match much the brighter and should have took the lead as Kingo and Clitheroe squandered chances. Halliwell and Jones were running the show in midfield and Barrett and Garrod were marshalling Appleton and Mace superbly.

It was no surprise when Hempnall took the lead when Gav Whiting hit a shot which deflected up over the Clifford to give Hempnall a deserved lead. Hempnall continued to pile forward and went two in front when Clitheroe tucked the ball home after a superb save from Clifford.

Hempnall saw out the half with ease and went in at the break 2-0.

From the minute the second half kicked off it was clear Newton Flotman weren’t going to let Hempnall have the time they did in the first half. They squeezed at every opportunity and looked much more of a threat without ever really testing Motteram.

Nick Appleton reduced the arrears when he floated a cross / shot over the top of the outstretched Motteram.

Quinnie replaced King and Ash Watson made his Hempnall debut replacing Whiting.

Hempnall responded with Quinnie having a good goal disallowed and Downes breaking through one on one befor being slowed down by ‘the puddle’

Emmett came on to replace Ross Jones and made two vital tackles / interceptions to maintain Hempnalls lead.

Hempnall saw the game out to make it 8 wins out of 8 on the road this season and to maintain their position at the top of the league. 

FT :2-1