Womens 1s vs Holcombe W1

Harleston Magpies W1s opened their league campaign at home against a strong Holcombe W1s side, with the visitors taking the points in a high-tempo contest that finished 6–2 in Holcombe’s favour.

First Quarter

The game began evenly, with both sides sharing possession. Holcombe took the pass back, but Magpies pressed well, carving out several attacking opportunities that were defended strongly. Holcombe’s composure around the back eventually created an opening down the right flank, leading to a penalty corner. After two re-awards, the visitors converted on the third attempt with a strike from the top of the circle. Magpies responded positively, building play down the right-hand side, but Holcombe regained control through a sideline ball and forced Magpies into a deep defensive shape. The home side remained disciplined, ending the quarter trailing 1–0.

Second Quarter

Holcombe began the second period brightly, putting Magpies under early pressure. The hosts countered well, working play from a free hit and probing Holcombe’s left side, though the move came to nothing. Holcombe doubled their lead through an aggressive press, forcing a turnover high up the pitch. A pass across goal was bundled into the Magpies net after an unfortunate touch. Their third soon followed, capitalising on a loose ball on the Magpies’ left side to launch a swift counter-attack, finished with a composed flick into the bottom corner. Magpies’ persistence paid off before the break, however. A strong outlet pass found the right half, who won a long corner. Quick attacking play set up a reverse wedge strike from the midfielder, which soared high before crashing off the backboard. The half closed with Holcombe 3–1 ahead.

Third Quarter

Magpies came out with intent after the restart, pressing Holcombe’s backline and threatening down both flanks. But a midfield turnover proved costly, as Holcombe’s full back released the ball wide and a cross into the circle was tapped in at the back post. The visitors kept up the momentum, forcing Magpies deeper before a deflected entry ball was met with a powerful reverse finish into the top corner to extend their advantage. Magpies showed resilience, hitting back with a well-worked penalty corner that was struck firmly into the backboard, making it 5–2. Holcombe continued to push forward, but the third quarter ended without further goals.

Fourth Quarter

Holcombe controlled possession at the start of the final quarter and quickly forced another penalty corner. A sharp routine was deflected into the Magpies net, stretching the lead to 6–2. Both sides maintained attacking intent in the closing stages, but no further goals followed.

Full Time: Harleston Magpies W1s 2–6 Holcombe W1s

Despite the scoreline, Magpies demonstrated resilience and moments of quality against tough opposition. Holcombe’s pressing game and clinical finishing proved decisive, but the hosts will take positives into the rest of the league campaign.