Hethersett Athletic

Hethersett entertained Norwich in a difficult start to the girls’ first season at 9-a-side level. Things got off to a disastrous start, with Norwich scoring two lucky early goals. Each time a long ball forward reached the Hethersett box, Hethersett keeper Louise got to the ball first, making clean contact with her kick, and each time the ball struck the onrushing Norwich striker and bounced into the goal. A third arrived shortly after, when a corner wasn’t properly cleared and a shot from the edge of the area found the net. Norwich continued to pressure throughout the half, and created two more goals to lead 5-0 at half-time.

The second half started in a similar fashion to the first, with lots of Norwich pressure, but thankfully some wayward finishing and exceptional defending kept the score to five. Hethersett then started to play themselves back in, spending more and more time in the Norwich half. This led to the first serious opening for Hethersett, which was taken, when Beth fired home from the edge of the penalty area following a corner. This spurred Hethersett on, with a number of attacks threatening the goal. Sophie Rock had an unlucky day in front of goal, seeing a number of shots saved, and one cannon back off the crossbar. Ella also hit the post, before Norwich went up the other end and grabbed their first of the second half. This didn’t deter Hethersett, who quickly scored their second, Ella going on a solo run and beating the goalkeeper at her near post. That was the last meaningful action, leading to a full time score of 6-2 to Norwich. However the girls can take great heart from beating Norwich 2-1 over the second half, and this is what they must build on for a successful season.

TEAM: Louise Pritchett, Sophie Cooke, Connie Canning, Ella Stephenson, Lisa Miners, Letitia Dye, Beth Evans, Sophie Rock, Adelaide Mott, Nancy Bussey, Erica Hall

Hethersett continued to work hard with the midfield pressing and pushing, Titch nearly breaking through on several occasions and Ella causing the home side real problems on the right wing. Sadly the goals perhaps deserved never came but there was much to be positive about, a few things to work on but the girls certainly showed they have every reason to be confident of picking up there first '9 a side' win next game.

TEAM: Louise Pritchett, Constance Canning, Nancy Bussey, Ella Stephenson, Lisa Miners, Sophie Cooke, Erica Hall. Sophie Rock, Letitia Dye, Riannon McKibbon

Sept 26th Hethersett 2 Red Rose 1

Hethersett deservedly notched up their first win of the season, putting on a display of good passing football and bringing to life the work they had done at training in the week. It would have been a more emphatic victory but for a very dogged defensive performance from Red Rose, who battled hard throughout.

Whilst Hethersett started a little tentatively they soon got into their rhythm creating several early chances, but unable to find the net. Despite the Oranges looking much the more likely team to score, Red Rose won possession in the midfield and their striker broke through to slot the ball home 13 minute into the game.

Hethersett continued to dominate possession, with Ella, Rocky and Leah all going close following continual good work from Cookie, Lisa and Beth (who was outstanding throughout the game). Rhiannon showed some clever touches on the left to play Lisa in. Ella, ever active on the right wing, looked to have scored the equaliser getting on the end of a great cross, but frustratingly the ball went 6 inches over the bar just before half time.

Defensively Hethersett played well, Nancy and Beth starting to use the offside rule to their advantage, stepping up on more than one occasion to catch the opposition out, and Emma quick off her lines to gather the ball on the edge of the area.

In the second half Hethersett were quick off the blocks with Rocky hitting the bar from the edge of the area. The oranges created lots of goalmouth action throughout the half, several shots going close, and the Red Rose keeper doing her best to spoil the home side's day. Adelaide worked tirelessly on the left wing and Catherine showed some really stout defending releasing some good passes down the right wing to Ella. The equaliser came from Ella, a twist and a superb rocket high into the back of the net. Persistant pressure from HAFC led to the inevitable winner, a Rockie screamer with about 10 minutes remaining, after a mix up in the box.

Red Rose to their credit, kept battling and could have snatched an equaliser with 2 minutes to go but that would have been very unfair on HAFC Girls, who thoroughly deserved the points for a solid team performance.

TEAM: Emma Bunn, Nancy Bussey, Beth Evans, Riannon McKibbon, Sophie Cooke, Lisa Miners, Ella Stephenson, Sophie Rock, Erica Hall, Adelaide Mott, Catherine Burton

Oct 3rd Hethersett 3 Aylsham 2

Hethersett notched up their second victory of the season with every single girl playing their part throughout the match.

With several players unavailable, and keeper Emma ill, Beth took the goalkeeper's jersey in the first half making some excellent saves to keep HAFC in the game early on.

2 goals from Rocky ( one a rare header after a pinpoint cross from Ella) and then a superb strike from a very narrow angle from Ella meant the home side went in 3 - 1 up. Aylsham's goal came half way through the first half cancelling out HAFC's early lead.

2nd half Rocky took the goalie's jersey from Beth who then went into defence. Aylsham snatched an equaliser despite HAFC having the better of the possession and playing some great passing football.... 3 - 2. The last 10 minutes of the game saw Aylsham pressing strongly for an equaliser, but every Hethersett player gave their all in defending their lead resulting in the win they deserved.

There were too many good performances to mention by name but everyone should be proud of the way they played and with 2 back to back victories it looks like HAFC U14 girls are back to their winning ways!

TEAM: Adelaide Mott, Lisa Miners, Beth Evans, Rhiannon McKibbon, Sophie Rock, Letitia Dye, Sophie Cooke, Ella Stephenson, Catherine Burton, Erica Hall

October 11th Spixworth 2 Hethersett 4

HAFC extended their winning run to 3 games with another display of good flowing football that prompted the opposition's manager to say it 'was the best display of passing football he had seen from any team in this league'!

Using the advantage of a downward slope HAFC constantly took the game to the opposition with wave after wave of attack. An early breakthrough after 5 minutes following good work from Beth and Erica on the left with Rocky slotting the ball neatly into the net. 0 - 1.

Despite dominating possession, the girls had to wait 24 minutes before they got a thoroughly deserved second, and in between, Emma, proving a solid pair of hands in goal, had to make a superb save low to her right to deny Spixworth. Following, Rocky and Rhiannon chased down a long pass to force a corner. Lisa superbly crossed the ball in tight and low and predator Ella swooped to tap in the second from 3 yards out. 0 - 2.

A third followed soon after, 33 minutes, starting with Erica winning the ball at the back, passing to Lisa, who sent a perfectly weighted through ball for Rocky to pick up and take round the keeper... 0 - 3, and no less than a great first half performance deserved!

2nd half - Spixworth started brightly and forced 2 early corners. Now playing uphill it was clear Hethersett were going to have to defend resolutely and look to catch the opposition on the break, which they did cleverly after 5 minutes with Ella putting Rocky through but the shot went just over the bar. Soon after Rocky crossed the ball to Rhiannon (who arguably had her best game for the club...up front!), who controlled the ball and was denied by a good save.

HAFC finally got their fourth with 5 minutes to go when Erica combined with Rhiannon to release Ella, who coolly put the ball away for her second... 0 - 4.

Cookie (playing a central defense and midfield role), Beth and Catherine were outstanding in defence throughout the game - all 3 seeming to cover every blade of the pitch with the whole team working for eachother. It was therefore a little harsh when Spixworth grabbed 2 goals in the last 3 minutes, one a long range effort from the half way line and one a well taken goal from a long ball down the middle ... the home side deserved something for their efforts in contributing to a good game of football, but this didn't detract from a well earned victory for 'the GIRLS' ... 3 off the trott ... ' HOORAH and well done!!'

TEAM: Emma Bunn, Beth Evans, Erica Hall, Sophie Rock, Rhiannon McKibbon, Sophie Cooke, Catherine Burton, Lisa Miners, Ella Stephenson

October 24th Norwich City 5 Hethersett 4

Probably one of Hethersett's best ever footballing performances ended in a gutting defeat with just minutes to go.

HAFC started well but gave Norwich the 'customary' early lead with 5 minutes of the start, a well worked goal which left Emma the goalie with no chance, 1 0 to the home side.

This however proved the catalyst for Hethersett who then went on to deliver a first half to be proud of... excellent passing football which brushed the opposition aside and saw Rocky bag a hatrick, each goal a culmination of some excellent team play, involving several players, and top class finishing ... Norwich could just look on! Connie, Nancy and Beth were tireless in defence, Cookie and Ella awesome in midfield and Lisa / Titch constantly challenging and linking play up and down the pitch. Ella put the icing on the cake scoring from a narrow angle following through on her first effort which was deflected across to the edge of the area. A thoroughly deserved 4 2 lead.

The girls started brightly in the second half, and it was good to welcome Louise back into the team following several weeks absence. Adelaide took on the 'poker' role and Hethersett continued to look in control, going close to scoring a 5th on three occasions, before the cruel blow of an own goal which lifted Norwich hearts, following and unstoppable corner. The Hethersett defence did well to intercept the cross, however the clearance crept just inside the far post and Norwich were back the game.

Norwich then really stepped up the pressure, forcing HAFC on to the back foot, and despite our girls giving everything Norwich forced an equaliser pouncing on a defensive error. To Hethersett's credit they bounced back again and continued to play good football, challenging hard, Emma making a couple of 'top class' saves, and the team still creating some chances. This made it all the harder to take when Norwich scored their winner with 7 minutes to go, a good come back for home side. Despite the introduction of Erica, Hethersett were unable to find the equaliser.

The girls should take great heart from the fact that the have now taken the game to Norwich on each of the last 3 games at their place, this time giving them a huge shock by half time! The mind set has changed, they are not comfortable playing us ... we like playing them ... all we have to do next time is 'boss' the game for both halves. It WILL happen. A performance to be proud of!!

TEAM - Emma Bunn, Connie Canning, Beth Evans, Nancy Bussey, Sophie Cooke, Lisa Miners, Sophie Rock, Louise Pritchard, Ella Stephenson, Letitia Dye, Erica Hall, Adelaide Mott.

November 7th Red Rose 0 Hethersett 5

The day started well with a surprise appearance from Dani Homer, who came to cheer her team mates despite her long term injury ... great to see you Dani...and welcome any time! Spirits were also high as it was also Beth's birthday - the team duly celebrated with a birthday cake... and a convincing 5 0 win to put the icing on it!

Hethersett completely controlled the opening half from the first whistle, with some fine passing football culminating in Rocky seizing on a through ball down the middle, after good work from Lisa and Beth to slot coolly past the keeper after 7 minutes. Further pressure led to a second for Rocky on 18 minutes from a well worked corner between Adelaide and Cookie, with Rocky turning the resultant cross into the net.

With the girls continuing to impress, and Erica hassling the Red Rose defenders in the box to win possession, the 3rd goal came ... this time Ella being the first to respond to a Rocky shot parried well by the keeper, putting it in at the far post. Sophie Rock's hatrick, a long shot just before half time, was just reward for the girls great teamwork giving them a 4 0 lead at half time.

Red Rose raised their game second half, and HAFC had to battle hard. Catherine, Beth and Connie had to be at their most alert to smother a wave of Red Rose attacks midway through the half. The 5th goal eventually came as Ella controlled a through ball from Connie, showed us her 'silky' skills and then a crisp finish into the back of the net. Rhiannon soon after went close off the back of a good cross from the right.

5 0 - a fair reflection of a game where, once again, every single girl had played their part in a victory that also saw Louise and Emma keep a clean sheet- well done goalies.

Team : Emma Bunn, Lousie Pritchett, Beth Evans, Connie Canning, Sophie Cooke, Adelaide Mott, Lisa Miners, Ella Stephenson, Sophie Rock, Erica Hall, Rhiannon McKibben, Catherine Burton.

November 14th Aylsham 0 Hethersett 4

The girls were in action away at Aylsham on a beautiful tropical (not!) morning in what promised to be a close fought encounter. At the start of play Aylsham were 2nd in the league and had only lost 3-2 in the previous meeting with Hethersett.

Hethersett started brightly despite the conditions & applied constant pressure in all areas of the field. Cookie had an excellent shot that went narrowly wide. Hethersett continued to press with Ella, Rocky & Lisa having attempts on goal. Beth & Connie worked tirelessly in defence to snuff out any Aylsham counter attacks & Emma made an excellent save & good clearance kicks when called upon. After numerous attacks & corners, the girls were rewarded. Ella lobbed a ball into the penalty area that Rocky chased down & scored with a nice left foot shot. Great 'hustle' goal as the goalie looked like she would get there first. Aylsham came back into the game & had a goal disallowed for offside but the girls defended well as a team and had a deserved lead at halftime.

Aylsham started the second half very brightly but were unable to create any clear cut chances and looked vulnerable when Hethersett counter attacked. Gradually the girls began to push Aylsham back and Ella and Rocky both had shots blocked. Aylsham failed to clear a corner properly and Beth scored with a long range effort that the Aylsham goalie could not handle. The girls continued to push forward & created numerous chances. Adelaide scored the 3rd goal with a smartly taken corner that Aylsham could only divert into their own net. Aylsham did persevere but the defence & Louise in goal snuffed out any attacking opportunities that they created. The 4th goal was scored in the last minute & showed "Hethersett football' at its very best with no Aylsham player getting anywhere near the ball. Lisa hit a long through ball between two defenders from within her own half to Adelaide, who nudged it out to Rocky on the left wing. Rocky beat a defender and crossed it into the middle where 3 players were waiting to finish. The ball fell to Lisa who hammered it into the net.

All in all an excellent performance from everyone. Another clean sheet and 4 goals scored against a really good team. What should have been a tough encounter was made to look very comfortable in the end.

TEAM - Emma Bunn, Louise Pritchet, Connie Canning, Beth Evans, Nancy Bussey, Catherine Burton, Sophie Cooke, Lisa Miners, Sophie Rock, Adelaide Mott, Ella Stephenson, Erica Hall.

November 22nd Norwich City 7 Hethersett 2

This was a day Norwich put in a very strong performance and HAFC never really managed to get into the game or meet the standards of football we are used to seeing.

Hethersett started brightly enough with several early attacks before Norwich took the lead with a clinical finish from the right wing. Hethersett continued to compete and were a little unlucky to find themselves 2 0 down towards the end of a first half that saw some very good football played by both sides.

Norwich stepped up the pace at the start of the second half, and went 3 up with a superb strike from distance, sailing just under the bar and into the net. HAFC kept picking themselves up but, despite a lot of effort from the girls, they never really got into their stride and it wasn't long before Norwich had their 4th.

Hethersett got some reward for their efforts when Lisa put the ball into the net from close range after a free flowing move - 4 1. Their celebrations were short lived however when Norwich scored their 5th following a powerful move through the midfield.

Hethersett refused to give up and scored their second when Lisa turned provider putting in a great cross from the corner for Ella to put in from 2 yards - 5 2. 2 more goals for Norwich followed in the closing minutes confirming a heavy defeat for the girls.

A day when Norwich were at their best, scoring some excellent goals, and Hethersett didn't really do themselves justice ... well beaten by the better team. However, normal service to be resumed next week ... heads up girls!!

Team : Emma Bunn, Louise Pritchett, Connie Canning, Beth Evans, Sophie Cooke, Sophie Rock, Ella Stephenson, Lisa Miners, Erica Hall, Letitia Dye, Rhiannon McKibben.

November 29th Hethersett 14 Spixworth 1

Squad : Louise Pritchett, Connie Canning, Beth Evans, Dani Homer, Sophie Cooke, Sophie Rock, Lisa Miners, Ella Stephenson, Rhiannon McKibben, Erica Hall.

What a difference a week makes! HAFC girls notched up their most emphatic win of the season with 70 minutes of great, passing football.

Hethersett took an early lead when Rocky crossed in from the left and Ella slotted the ball neatly in at the far post, and shortly after made it 2 0 when Rocky claimed her first after good work and a pass from Lisa. Just as the home side looked to be completely on top Spixworth pounced on a loose pass to put the ball in the net from distance... 2 1, and for a few minutes they found themselves back in the game and caused Hethersett a couple of early scares.

15 minutes in, however, the nerves were settled following an excellent tackle by Ella who then ran through to fire low into the net... 3 1. From then on it was pretty much one way traffic, with Ella and Rocky combining after good work from the midfield and Rocky getting her second. Sophie's hatrick came soon after after another good intervention by Ella allowing her strike partner to put in from 4 yards... 5 1 and a 'historic milestone' ... Rocky - the first girl to score 100 goals for the club ... WELL DONE ROCKY!!! With Cookie, Lisa and Erica working like trojans in midfield to win the ball, Ella and Rocky were able to run riot up front and soon combined again with Rocky shooting high into the net from 12 yards - a lovely goal, followed swiftly by a low shot past the keeper taking the score to 7 1.

The back line of Connie, Ella and Rhiannon played almost faultlessly, letting very little through and on the occasion when Spixworth found an opportunity, Louise dealt with everything calmly, and collectedly. Lisa then showed her dribbling skills to run past 3 defenders and shot into the keepers hands just before Ella sent a ball over the top from the half way line to Rocky who ran past 2 defenders and rifled a shot past the keeper. 8 1 at half time.

Much the same in the second half with Dani making her first appearance of the season in defence and Rhiannon moving up front. All of the girls continued to play flowing football from back to front and '9' went up on the board when Cookie passed out to Ella on the wing, who crossed in from the right for Lisa to extend her scoring run to 3 goals in 3 games. Lisa returned the complement after, by winning the ball in the middle, made a short pass through to Ella who then finished superbly finding the narrow gap between the keeper and the post from 8 yards. 10 1.

It didn't stop there ... Rocky grabbed her 7th taking the ball from Beth and past the keeper (11-1), Beth then feeding from the left for Ella to grab her 4th (12-1), and Rhiannon really unlucky not to grab a goal, hitting the post from close in. Lisa scored the 13th and her second of the game after another good pass from Beth. 13 unlucky for some, but not for HAFC as the captain put the icing on the cake after another unselfish pass from Beth ... Cookie scoring the 14th by slamming it joyously into the net!

Big smiles all round, 14 goals, only 1 conceded (well done Louise and her defence), and for every single player a performance to be proud of.

December 5th Hethersett 4 Norwich City 4

Squad : Louise Pritchett, Connie Canning, Beth Evans, Catherine Burton, Sophie Cooke, Sophie Rock, Ella Stephenson, Rhainnon McKibben, Lisa Miners, Erica Hall, Letitia Dye.

Another chapter in the 'healthy competition of Hethersett AFC and Norwich City girls - and this was certainly one of the best! Both sides started brightly playing good flowing football, with Hethersett creating the better of the early chances. A little against the run of play Norwich took the lead with a very good free kick from distance creeping under the cross bar.

It would have been easy for the girls to let their heads drop, but that is becoming a thing of the past as they hit back immediately from kick off with the ball going back to Beth who floated a superb pass over the top to Ella who controlled the ball brilliantly to score past the keeper... 1 1. Shortly after, Ella hit the post following good work in the midfield only for Norwich soon after to go 2 1 up with a deflected shot that left Louise with no chance.

Half time - but HAFC were in no way down-hearted, knowing they had played as well as any time this season and once again they started strongly in the second half, determined to boss the game. Erica, on the wing, had her best ever game for the club (we've said that 2 or 3 times this season...just keeps getting better!), putting some good balls in for Rocky to run on to from the middle. Cookie was 'putting it about' and winning important balls in the middle with Titch getting some deft touches in to release Lisa and Rocky. Cruel as it then seemed, with Connie and Beth showcasing some really tight defending throughout the game, Norwich were awarded a free kick just outside the area, and were soon 3 1 up through a perfectly placed shot.

The girls ever growing character shone through however and within minutes Ella had scored her second getting on to a Rocky through ball.... 3 2. Norwich refused to succumb to a Hethersett come back though and scored through a long shot that Louise was very unlucky not to keep out, following several previous good saves... 4 2.

The home team kept playing their football, giving Norwich a hard time and really unsettling them. Their just reward came when Cookie went on a run through the midfield, passing to Rocky whose shot was parried by the keeper for Titch to slot in at the far post... 4 3. The equaliser that was so deserved came soon after with an absolutely exquisite finish from Lisa , stroking the ball from just outside the area and giving the keeper no chance.

Hethersett pressed for the winner although the game finished 4 4, credit to both teams for an excellent game, and to our girls for an outstanding team performance that saw every single player give their all... well done ladies ... happy days!

December 12th Blofield 1 Hethersett 2

Squad : Louise Pritchett, Beth Evans, Connie Canning, Sophie Cooke, Lisa Miners, Ella Stephenson, Erica Hall, Sophie Rock, Catherine Burton.

Hethersett signed off the pre-Christmas part of the season with a hard fought victory over a good, solid Blofield side.

The game started with Hethersett making the early running, with Lisa putting Rocky through in the second minute only for the keeper to smother the ball. Hethersett then enjoyed the lions share of possession for the next 10 minutes, with both Ella and Catherine having goals ruled out for offside, a shame because both were well taken.

Blofield them came back into the game and played some lovely football, combining with sound defending to take the initiative and dominated the game for a 10 minute spell... but to HAFC's credit they grabbed a goal against the run of play when Ella put a cross in from the right for Rocky to slot home from 3 yards. The girls then started to create some good chances with several quality through balls from both the midfield and defence. 1 0 to the away side at half time.

The second half started brightly with Rocky hitting the bar early on and Lisa also running through only for the keeper to thwart her attempt at goal. Blofield again tested HAFC on several occasions, Louise, Beth and Connie having to be at their most alert, but Blofield got their just deserts with a well worked equaliser. 1 1 and Hethersett looking vulnerable. However the girls continued to work hard on a day when things didn't quite go to plan, Cookie and Lisa grafting in midfield trying to gain the upper hand and eventually they carved out a winning second goal after good work from Erica and Lisa leaving Rocky to shoot and Ella to swoop in and score at the far post. 2 1.

A good result for the Oranges despite not playing their best football, the sign of a good team when they can still get a result by sheer hard work. A nice way to enter the Christmas break.

January 23rd Spixworth 1 Hethersett 9

Squad : Louise Pritchett, Beth Evans, Connie Canning, Sophie Cooke, Letitia Dye, Ella Stephenson, Erica Hall, Dani Homer, Sophie Rock, Adelaide Mott, Lisa Miners

HAFC returned from a long Christmas and New Year break with an emphatic 9 - 1 away victory. The first 10 minutes of the game were well contested, with both sides creating chances and both keepers being called into action. Titch, Lisa and Ella slowly got control of the midfield with Ella getting the breakthrough after a good corner from Lisa shooting high into the net from close range.

Adelaide soon made it 2 after good work from the midfield putting the ball out to Ella on the wing, who then crossed the ball in for Adelaide to finish. Rocky then made it 3 running from the half way line to put past the 'keeper and then rounded of a solid first half with a 4th, and her second of the game following another powerful cross from Ella. HT 4 0.

Spixworth found it hard to break through the Hethersett defence, Beth and Connie keeping things tight at the back, and on the odd occasion they managed a shot Louise made at least 3 excellent saves. They did manage to grab 1 goal with the ball creeping in at the far post. 4 1. Hethersett however increased their advantage with Rocky seizing on to a Lisa through ball, after some good work by Erica, to make it 5 and then Ella running through to score her second of the game ... 6 1.

Spixworth rallied temporarily, but with Cookie coming into the midfield and Dani on to the left HAFC soon regained control. Ella broke down the right after Cookie won the ball in the middle, and struck the post only for Adelaide to get her second from the rebound. 7 1.

Lisa and Rocky then put the icing on he cake, both scoring following goal mouth scrambles to complete and very competent performance.

February 6th Hethersett 4 Blofield 1

Team - Louise Pritchett , Nancy Bussey, Letitia Dye, Sophie Cooke, Lisa Miners, Ella Stephenson, Erica Hall, Sophie Rock, Rhiannon McKibben, Catherine Burton

After another two week lay off, HAFC got back to work with a competent display against a hardworking Blofield team, and it took just 8 minutes for the girls to take the lead, Titch winning the ball with a strong tackle, Rocky pushing it to Ella who slotted in from a narrow angle on the right.

Blofield immediately responded with 2 flowing moves, both scuppered by great last minute tackles by Nancy, preventing certain 1 on 1s with the keeper. HAFC then regained their composure with Cookie on a run, laying the ball on the right to Ella who's low cross found Rocky only to see her shot go just wide. Four minutes later Cookie made a crunching tackle to win the ball in the middle, took it forward and then made a pin point through ball for Rocky to latch on to, making it 2 0.

The home team then controlled the remainder of the half with Louise handling well at the back, Nancy and Titch doing a sterling job in defence on the odd occasion when Blofield attacked and Erica and Ella working hard to take the play wide. Just before half time Cookie made another interception and touched the ball to Lisa who's shot was blocked and, with Catherine nearly scoring in the following mix up in the area, the ball rebounded back to Lisa who's thunderous shot was saved by the keeper. The half ended with Titch once again winning a solid tackle at the back, passes between Rocky and Ella, who then ran the length of the pitch only to have her shot smothered by the keeper.

Blofield started the brighter in the second half with Nancy and Titch twice having to be alert at the back to close down attacks and Blofield actually managed to get the ball in the net only for the ref to blow for offside. As Blofield continued to press, Louise had to be at her best, twice coming off her line in 'one on one' situations to block at the striker's feet. Blofield got reward for their 10 minute flurry when a long shot hit the bar and they put the ball in the net, close in, from the rebound.

HAFC seized some control back, having looked visibly shaken, when a Louise goal kick found Ella who glided past her marker to shoot in from a really narrow angle on the right to take the pressure off ... 3 1.

The midfield regained control. Cookie and Lisa really stepping up the challenges, Catherine, Erica / Rhiannin hassling Blofield whenever they gained possession and Rocky dropping deeper. 3 sweeping moves followed from the home team involving most of the team from back to front ... the final move ending with an Ella and Rocky '1 : 2' and Rocky putting into the net. 4 1. There was still time for Louise to make an outstanding block at the feet of a Blofield attacker before the ref blew the final whistle.

A few nervous moments but overall a good, controlled, hard working performance against a disciplined Blofield side.

February 13th Aylsham 1 Hethersett 1

SQUAD : Louise Pritchett, Beth Evans, Connie Canning, Sophie Cooke, Ella Stephenson, Lisa Miners, Erica Hall, Rhiannon McKibben, Dani Homer, Adelaide Mott, Letitia Dye, Catherine Burton

Despite a display of determined and passing football Hethersett were held to a draw, having failed to convert a string of scoring opportunities.

The game started brightly with Hethersett enjoying most of the possession and creating 3 good opportunities in the first 5 minutes, only to see shots go just wide and on one occassion the keeper to make a good block. Lisa and Cookie controlled midfield, Cookie making the tackles and Lisa splaying some excellent passes to the wings, allowing Erica and Ella to run down the flanks and get some good crosses into the box.

Beth, enjoying a rare opportunity to play up front and partnering Adelaide, went close twice before Hethersett's only goal of the game came on 8 minutes. A good interception from Erica, a pass to Cookie who then played Adelaide in from the left. Adelaide played the ball to Beth who drew a good save from the keeper only for Ella to pick up the parry and slot the ball low into the net.

Hethersett continued to play good attacking football, although Aylsham also played their part, Connie and Titch having to work hard to smother a number of counter attacks between them. Once again Louise showed good control of her area coming off her line several times to gather the ball before the strikers could get on the through balls.

Half time came soon after Dani had two shots, one picked up by the keeper and one just wide of the post - the away team holding the lead 1 0. Aylsham came out in the second half with renewed vigour and bossed the midfield for 10 minutes, Hethersett losing their shape a little, and whilst HAFC still created most of the chances, Aylsham started to show signs that they might grab a goal.

Rhainnon and Catherine entered the fray, one up front and one on the wing, both working hard to win the ball and showing some good touches. Despite their efforts however, 15 minutes from the end of the match Aylsham broke through after a defensive mix up and slotted home an equaliser, which although cruel on the away team, gave Aylsham reward for alot of hard work in the second half.

Hethersett responded and should have had what looked a clear penalty when Titch shot from just inside the area ony for a defender to make an excellent 2 handed 'save' on behalf of the keeper (!!!) to tip the ball on to the bar - the ref and linesman stayed unmoved and a goal kick was awarded.

Hethersett were left to reflect on a host of missed opportunities as the game played out as a draw, perhaps an unfair reflection on the amount of effort and also the quality of their football for the majority of the game.

March 6th Hethersett 3 Blofield 2

Squad : Louise Pritchett, Beth Evans, Connie Canning, Erica Hall, Lisa Miners, Sophie Cooke, Ella Stephenson, Dani Homer, Letitia Dye, Rhiannon McKibben, Sophie Rock, Adelaide Mott.

Hethersett started the game slowly, finding it difficult to settle into their normal rhythm and Blofield took a deserved early lead when Louise blocked an early shot well only for the Blofield striker to grab the rebound putting it low into the net.

HAFC immediately counter attacked, Erica and Ella pushing down the wings and Rocky, Ella and Beth all went close - the Blofield keeper making 3 good saves in the next 5 minutes, the final one leading to a corner which Lisa floated into the box and Beth latched onto, lobbing the keeper the ball going high into the net. 1 1.

Blofield remained solid and enjoyed the better of the half, working the Hethersett midfield and defence hard, Beth looking particularly strong throughout the game. Dani however went close for the home side cleverly half-volleying a good cross from Ella and forcing the keeper into a save. The girls defended deep and were often on the back foot, Titch, Cookie and Lisa having to help Connie and Beth at the back, but Blofield went ahead for the second time just before half time.

The second half started better with the Hethersett midfield gaining control, Rhiannon particularly impressive with her touches and tackles on the left ... and Ella soon made it two by chipping over the keeper following good work from Cookie to win the ball and a great pass from Lisa.

The game then opened up with end to end football, the defence looking much more solid and Louise controlling the area well. The home side started to carve out a good number chances, the Blofield keeper doing well to block on a number of occasions. Adelaide almost curled 2 successive shots in direct from a corner only for the keeper to block at the near post.

HAFC finally took the lead when Lisa knocked the ball through to Rocky who turned and shot clinically past the keeper 12 minutes from the end. From then on the girls were in control and the points were in the bag. Not our best display but really pleasing how the girls responded in the second half and worked really hard to earn the win. .

March 27th Norwich City 6 Hethersett 1

Squad : Louise Pritchett, Beth Evans, Connie Canning, Lisa Miners, Letitia Dye, Ella Stephenson, Dani Homer, Rhiannon McKibben, Adelaide Mott, Catherine Burton

The game kicked off with both teams in determined mood and for 10 minutes the 2 teams were deadlocked at 0 0, until Norwich pounced on an unfortunate ricochet off a Hethersett player to put the ball into the net.

Despite the set back HAFC kept up the work rate and showed good team spirit, endeavouring to play their usual passing football. Lisa and Titch continually ran to close down the City midfielders and Connie and Beth kept it tight at the back. The away side created a couple of chances with Ella and Beth hitting over before Norwich claimed their 2nd and 3rd goals, both well worked, before the halftime break.

Rich stressed at the break that despite the scoreline the girls had stuck to the task of playing football, and had put in a solid team effort. The second half was much the same as the first, with Norwich having the upper hand but HAFC always looking capable of creating chances... some great corners from Adelaide, plus some speedy runs from Ella down the wing and clever touches from Rhiannon. Catherine and Dani challenged and won the ball in the middle, and Dani had a shot saved by the keeper. Norwich however had a string of good passing moves and Louise had to be quick of the line on several occasions to close them down, also making a couple of excellent saves to keep the scoreline down.

Norwich eventually got their 4th and 5th goals the latter a superb chip from distance that floated into the top right hand corner. HAFC didn't get downhearted however, showing great spirit and focusing on playing good football whenever they had the chance. Their consolation goal came from a good move across to the right and Ella hitting home a great shot into the far left hand top corner of the goal to make it 5 1.

Norwich still had time to score a 6th for a well deserved victory on a day when they were clearly the better side, but Hethersett should take heart from the great attitude they showed throughout the game ... no player could be faulted for their effort or their work rate.

Our last game against Norwich this season, but don't forget those previous games when HAFC have shown Norwich that on our day we are a force not to be taken lightly.

April 17th Hethersett 5 Spixorth 0

Squad : Louise Pritchett, Beth Evans, Connie Canning, Sophie Cooke, Lisa Miners, Ella Stephenson, Dani Homer, Erica Hall, Rhiannon McKibben, Adelaide Mott, Letitia Dye, Sophie Rock.

Hethersett got back to winning ways after a couple of weeks without a game, with a comfortable win against Spixworth.

The home side took an early lead after 5 minutes when Rocky took a pass from Louise just over the half way line and ran clear to score. A second goal came shortly after when an excellent corner from Lisa was turned in by Rocky with a good finish from 7 yards.

Hethersett dominated matters with Cookie, Lisa taking control of midfield with some storng tackling, Beth / Connie mopping up any Spixworth attacks without too much worry and Ella and Adelaide doing good work down the wings. Connie had a good long range effort go just wide and Beth also ran through from the back to release Rocky who shot from the edge of the area just wide of the post. Beth then had a shot blocked after good touches from Dani in the area. Titch worked hard to win the ball just behind Rocky, creating 2 further chances which the keeper smothered.

Spixworth responded and on 25 minutes were awarded a free kick from 20 yards which Louise saved well. Spixworth forced 2 corners in succession but again Louise was equal to these tipping one over the bar and catching the other. After a tough 5 minutes Ella broke away from her own penalty area taking the ball right up to the Spixworth touch line and then crossing to give Rocky a tap in for her 3rd goal. Half Time 3 0.

HAFC started the 2nd half in the same vain, Ella first having a shot saved from the right and Lisa delivering some good corners. Rhiannon created a great opportunity with a superb pass down the left wing for Titch to run on to, who passed in for Rocky to shoot just wide.Erica intercepted a pass to set up a move through to Cookie, then to Rocky who crossed in from the left for Ella to score Hethersett's fourth from 10 yards.

Erica then switched for her first ever spell at right back, and showed she was comfortable with a couple of solid tackles to stop Spixworth on the edge of the area. Beth and Dani also got in a couple of last minute tackles when Spixworth broke away to keep the score at 4 0.

There was still enough time for HAFC to engineer two more chances, Cookie first winning the ball in the middle and winning a throw in. Cookie's throw was then touched on by Titch to Ella whose shot was deflected and then shot wide, and then Rocky grabbing her 4th of the game making it 5 0... a good result earned through playing thoughtful, passing football.

April 24th Red Rose 2 Hethersett 6

Squad : Louise Pritchett, Connie Canning, Sophie Cooke, Lisa Miners, Ella Stephenson, Adelaide Mott, Dani Homer, Erica Hall, Rhiannon McKibben, Sophie Rock.

Hethersett started lethargically, with both Connie and Cookie having to be alert to prevent early strikes from Red Rose, before the home side deservedly took the lead after 10 minutes.

Going 1 0 down seemed to stir HAFC into action with Ella crossing to the centre soon after and Dani having a shot blocked with Rhiannon shooting wide from the rebound. Dani showed some great touches in midfield putting several excellent through balls down the middle, one of which Ella ran on to to slot home from a narrow angle 1 1. The away side took charge of things with one of a number of crisp attacking moves leading to their 2nd goal, Ella crossing for Rocky to calmly fire into the net on 20 minutes. HAFC then enjoyed their best 15 minutes of the match stringing together pass after pass from defence through midfield to attack - with Ella, Rocky and Dani all going being deprived goals from the keeper blocking well. Adelaide also put in some wicked corners.

On the odd occasion Red Rose broke through Cookie and Connie confidently mopped up, with Louise also in control in the goal mouth. Cookie then put Rocky through with a long ball down the middle and the keeper blocked the shot. Adelaide put in 2 great crosses, both of which Ella met and shot, the keeper again saving both. The 3rd goal came from a great move - Cookie to Adelaide, to Rocky who played it back to Dani (who was in her best form), Dani's through ball to Ella who scored her 2nd and HAFC's 3rd. Half time. 3 - 1.

The second half started positively with Erica, forever chasing the opposition down, winning a throw. A Cookie throw in to Rocky who passed inside to Lisa who was unlucky to shoot just wide. Rhiannon played some of her best football on the left, winning the ball regularly and releasing midfielders. Rhiannon's persistence, a double tackle and then a perfect pass allowed Rocky to shoot and score her 2nd ... 1 4.

Red Rose then came back with a wave of attacks and Connie and Cookie did really well working hard in defence to cope with the pressure, with Erica helping out when needed. Cookie, playing a rare game at left back, enjoyed one of her strongest halves. Louise made 2 top drawer saves, one effort looking certain to go in deftly tipped over the bar. Red Rose managed to grab one back but Hethersett soon restored their 3 goal advantage with an exquisite lob from 12 yards by Ella for her hatrick. Not to be outdone Rocky then scored a fab goal taking the ball, turning on the spot and curling the ball in to the top right hand corner from 10 yards... her hatrick aswell!

6 2 - a good win against a Red Rose side who kept making it difficult. Don't want to single anyone out as all the girls played very well, but important to acknowledge Dani's superb first half in midfield and Rhiannon's excellent 2nd half. Well done girls!

May 1st Hethersett 7 Aylsham 2

Squad : Louise Pritchett, Beth Evans, Connie Canning, Lisa Miners, Sophie Cooke, Ella Stephenson, Sophie Rock, Dani Homer, Rhiannn McKibben, Letitia Dye, Adelaide Mott.

Hethersett enjoyed an emphatic first half against old rivals Aylsham, with too much good football to mention in a brief write up so here's the highlights! HAFC enjoyed attack after attack in the first 10 minutes with Aylsham having just one breakaway which was dealt with confidently by the Connie and Beth. The best effort came from Lisa corner, a Rocky shot that was blocked and a Cookie follow up also blocked by the keeper. 15 minutes into the game Ella capitalised off a through ball from Rocky to score her first ... 1 0. The home side continued to press forward with some good corners delivered by Adelaide creating excellent opportunities. Cookie and Lisa were tenacious in midfield winning possession and Lisa put a great through ball to Rocky who had her shot saved. Aylsham immediately replied with a breakaway' effort seeing Louise to make a good stop, for the rebound to end up in the net with a shot from the edge of the area... 1 1, against the run of play.

HAFC stepped up a level and were ahead again soon after, Beth winning the ball in defence, to Lisa who made a great pass ahead of Ella on the wing who took it to the bi-line and crossed for Titch to put in from 3 yards ... 2 1. Our girls then 'ran riot' with sweeping football, the ball coming in from both wings and down the middle. Lisa was on top form with some of her control and passing, leading to 2 further opportunities for Rocky, one going just wide and 1 saved. Cookie also put Rocky through again with the shot going just wide of the right hand post. The 3rd goal came from a great move involving Cookie, Lisa and Titch who touched the ball in from the edge of the area to Ella who passed to Rocky 3 1. Aylsham enjoyed 3 rare attacks before Hethersett got their 4th when Rocky broke through from a throw from Lisa with an excellent finish for her second of the game. Lisa and Dani the combined well to create openings leading to a 5th goal and Rocky's hatrick. Ella made it 6 1 latching on to another beautiful through ball from Lisa. Job done!

Alsham made better of the second half, with Louise having to make an early double block. Rhiannon won the ball well on the wing and touched the ball into Titch, to Dani and then Rocky who fired home from 8 yards ... 7 1 and 4 goals for the striker. The away side had more possession that the first half and Louise had to be alert to catch a shot from 10 yards and also come off her line to gather the ball on the edge as Aylsham broke through. Rhiannon also chased back crucially when Aylsham had players forward to force their striker to shoot wide. As the game entered the final 10 minutes HAFC resumed control with good work from Cookie and Lisa, and some great ball skills from Dani who got a shot in from 10 yards.Adelaide continued to deliver consistently good corners. The game closed with Aylsham drawing out second double save of the game from Louise - only this time Aylsham got to the ball first to score a consolation ... 7 2 and a very good win for Hethersett against a battling Aylsham. Good stuff!