North Norfolk U14Bs travelled to Cambridge City in the closing rounds of the National Championships. By the final whistle, one of the last two East of England clubs would be a couple of matches away from a place in the national finals.

It was set up to be a David and Goliath encounter. The Cambridge team had won the U12 National's two years previously and North Norfolk were entering the competition for the first time in the clubs history. North were also unsure how much value to put on their previous round victory over Norwich City considering Cambridge had in earlier rounds beaten Northampton 7-1, and Northampton had in turn beaten Bury.

Playing quarters because of the intense heat North Norfolk were lucky to end Q1 without conceding. Maybe the long-drive and conditions played a part but some resolute defending was needed whilst the team struggled to gel and Cambridge started like a team that had seen it all before.

North Norfolk looked more comfortable in Q2 and territory was evenly shared between the teams. This made it particularly galling when Cambridge scored two well taken goals in quick succession.

More fluids at half time and then the boys went out for the second half knowing a goal would shake things up. A tough ask considering the conditions and the challenges which come from playing away matches. As it turned out they just didn't get the break they needed but the intensity of the second half is a credit to a team which has made incredible progress. Matching up to such a strong team is a real achievement and the boys can all be very proud .

POTM - George Marsh

Good luck to Cambridge in the rest of the competition!

Special thanks to our younger players - including some U12s who have travelled with the squad throughout the tournament. Knowing you're not going to get as much pitch time as you'd ideally like is always a tough one. The maturity with which they played their part - and worked for the team, was a real positive and the experience will be valuable for your own campaign next season.

Thanks also to our fine guests from Dereham HC. Not forgetting the parents and also to match-shirt sponsors Coastline Property Services and TC Improvements.

North Norfolk HC

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