Boys Development vs Norwich City BD

A cracking performance by Noah W in goal gave the Boys Development Squad their last opportunity to end their season and their last age group opportunity to secure a win over a talented Norwich City team. Spectacular saves in the first half of the game must have been demoralising for the experienced NC forward line and gave Magpies a boost for their forwards to capitalise on Norwich City’s lost chances.

The Squad has slowly built their confidence and a knowledge that they are as good as any opponents. So, it was not surprising that a first-half attack, a copy book Tuesday night practice, led to a strong cross from the right wing and an easy far post slot in by Olly.

For the spectators it was so pleasing to watch the Squad deliver incisive attacking passes, to execute successful movement both on and off the ball and when necessary to defend effectively against a robust Norwich City attack.

So, it was not surprising when, in the second half, Luca’s forward movement up the wing and his strong pass across the circle gave Will another opportunity to slot the ball home once again on the far post.

Norwich City did manage a goal in the last five minutes to bring the final score to 2 – 1 but it was a sound Magpies Squad who came away with a very pleasing win.

I have watched this Squad grow and develop for the last four years. They had some devastating defeats in the early days. They have never given up and slowly but surely, they have developed their skills, knowledge and understanding of the game which has made them players for now and will make them players for the future of the Club.

On Saturday, I met up with my old mucker, Judy Lee-Smith. For the first time but not the last, she came to watch her grandson, Tom. We are both doing second generation watching! She told me how impressed she was with the performance of all the boys and the impact she felt David was having on the pitch. She recognized that it was not just his ability to teach the tactics of the game at the appropriate level but also to implant the ethos of the Harleston Hockey Club.

I said I felt the Squad’s progress and improvement has been about the collegiate input. Each adult has made their contribution. So, it’s a big thank you not only to David but also to James for overseeing and making everything happen; to Justin for giving his time to organise the coaching every Tuesday night; to Richard for umpiring and goalkeeper support; to Miles and Colin for their team support; and to Rae for keeping us all informed of the where and when's.

Next year we will be the Men’sIt won't bell