Hempnall FC

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We had the luxury off starting with an unchanged line up and were hoping for more off the free flowing football that had seen us demolish Brandon 2 weeks ago, who notably have bounced back brilliantly with 6 points in 2 games since.

However, with in minutes it was clear to all this would be a far different test as Acle came in a very competitive mood and we would be tested on a different aspect of our game.

The first casualty was Tom Halliwell, whose knee felt the full force of a crunching tackle from Ian Morgan who undoubtedly got the ball. However, in today’s game the debate raged as to whether he should have got some form of card punishment, as he also clearly got the man after. At time of writing we suspect Tom has knee ligament damage and will be out for several weeks.

Greg Devlin was introduced as it was felt the game was more suited to his appetite than the speed of the impressive Kelvin Willimott. Despite ‘discipline’ instructions Mr Devlin was quick to make his mark on the game and found his way into the refs note book with an aggressive challenge on Jon Curtis.

Hence the tone of the game was set & game of niggles, hard challenges and competiveness followed. Not a complaint just a fact and we are all well aware that to be successful at this standard your qualities will be tested on many fronts.

The game swung our way when Rob Browne who had earlier smashed a close shot against the post after a great turn, went one better. A powerful run down the left culminated in a shot come cross from the left, somehow eluding young Foreman in the visitors goal, and planted its self in the far corner.

Five minutes before half time we then added our second when Greg Devlin crashed an unstoppable shot from just inside the box, after a penalty area scramble.

A halftime score which I felt slightly flattered us and much conversation at the interval ensued around the need to step up our game and the next goal being critical.

For 25 minutes, the game continued to embroil itself in hard tackling contest for midfield supremacy and a lot of ‘noise’ from both camps of the rights and wrongs of decisions, tackles etc. But with a 2 goal cushion nobody in the home camp was concerned by the lack goal mouth action.

However, the third goal arrived when a very similar opening to our own ensued, a cross come shot found its way to the fast post and Dean Crosbie did well to head home.

This was the signal for the game to reach its most lively point from a goal scoring chances outlook. More attacking options were introduced with Ben Morgan for Acle & Kelvin Willimott for ourselves. Twinkle toes Wenham made way as it was not really the game for the well known ‘hard’ man (only kidding Sam).

We created 2 good chances when a opening Acle up down their right. The best being a shot from Browny that looked goal bound and all were in the air but somehow it curved onto the post.

Acle stepped up the pressure and from one attack some determined defending from Carl Harwin and Ben Cudden saw them clash heads and both go unconscious.

Harwin could take no further part being replaced my new signing Lee Devlin from Thetford Town, whom we welcome to the club. Lee whose character has already impressed is a good centre half and will bring more competition for what is sure to be a tough end of season, with so many games remaining.

With no further subs Cuddy continued but remembers nothing of the last 7 minutes (normal Saturday night!!) and later was taken to hospital as there were worrying signs what with blood appearing from his nose and the loss of his hearing on one side.

I am pleased to say it was nothing more serious than concussion and we are hopeful he will be ok for next Saturday.

Acle continued to push and in the last 2 minutes Daryl Pluckrose saw his header hit the bar and we hung on for 3 crucial points.

The next 3 weeks see us play Blofield, Beccles & Cromer and will surely give a good indicator of just where we are likely to be at the end.

On the day in a tough physical encounter Carl Harwin and Iain Mills shared the man of the match award with some ‘bodies on the line’ defensive work but where would they be without the ‘old’ master guiding them at the back !?

The reserves also had a good day returning with an excellent 4-1 win at North Walsham, well done guys.

The young A Team boys unfortunately went down heavily and it looks like it could be a tough task to hold their status. Anyone wishing to help (on or off the pitch) Matt with this tough challenge please get in touch.