| Mundesley 1st Mundeley 5 - 1 Gimingham
18:30 - MADRA
The Mallards kicked off their new season with a great win against one of their more local rivals in the form of Gimingham FC. Of course nobody knows what this season will bring but if this performance is anything to go by then good things have got to be asked of this new squad of players.
The team looks very different from last year with new manager Terry Smith losing a number of players from last season. Some have gone off to pastures new whilst some are on holiday or still have not signed. But those promoted to the First Team put on a great display of attacking football and solid defending.
Soaking up some initial pressure the defence of Drake, Emerson, Loose and Needham held firm and the midfield of L Payne, Elmore, Cine, Williams and Holden were able to break with aplomb. Combining down the flanks Holden crossed in first for Payne to head in before the Mallards conceded a penalty which Cobbold duly excellently saved.
Clarke then went on a solo mission to get onto the scoresheet and scored a great individual goal with defenders all around him after lifting the ball over the keeper. Holden then crossed in once again for Williams to convert a great run into the box. Holden then got on the scoresheet himself after rounding the goalkeeper near the edge of the box. The midfield trio of Cine, Williams and Elmore were now working brilliantly together. Is this the new face of the Mallards? Payne was looking dangerous all game and converted another chance late on with darkness creeping on. A good start to the season but now a benchmark has been set to which the Mallards have got to try to reach over the coming months. MOM - James Cobbold (Pee Wee). Managers Report A VERY ENTERTAINING MATCH WITH BOTH TEAMS TRYING TO PLAY ATTACKING FOOTBALL. MUNDESLEY HAD THEIR GK TO THANK FOR A FIRST HALF PENALTY SAVE AND WENT ON TO LEAD 4-0 AT HALF TIME. AFTER THE BREAK GIMMINGHAM THREW EVERYTHING AT MUNDESLEY, BUT IT WAS THE HOME TEAM THAT LOOKED MORE COMPOSED IN FONT OF GOAL AND SCORED A FITH BEFORE GIMMINGHAM FINALLY BEAT MAN OF THE MATCH JAMES COBBOLD, THE MUNDESLEY GK. THE MUNDESLEY MANAGER, TERRY SMITH, SAID HE WAS VERY PLEASED WITH THE SOLID TEAM PERFORMANCE AND THE GOOD FOOTBALL PLAYED THROUGHOUT THE 90 MINUTES. GOALSCORERS;DAVE WILLIAMS;LOUIS HOLDEN;PAUL CLARKE;AND LEIGH PAYNE (2)....TRAINING IS ON THURSDAY AT 7.15PM AND EVERYONE IS WELCOME. NEXT GAME AWAY V LYNG , SAT KO 2.30PM, MEET AT MADRA 1PM.
Lyng 4 v Mundesley 1st 4 Managers Report: MUNDESLEY ONLY FIELDED 10 PLAYERS, BUT DESPITE BEING 2-1 DOWN AT HALF TIME THEY PLAYED A VERY NEAT PASSING GAME AND LOOKED LIKE THEY HAD TWICE AS MANY PLAYERS AS THEIR OPPONENTS LYNG. THE TEAMS WERE EVENED UP WHEN LYNG HAD A PLAYER SENT OFF BEFORE HALF TIME. THE SECOND HALF SAW AN IMPROVED LYNG SCORE 2 MORE GOALS TO LEAD 4-1, BUT STILL MUNDESLEY MADE CHANCES BY KEEPING THEIR DISCIPLINE AND PASSING THE BALL. AS THE HOT WETHER TOOK ITS TOLL, MUNDESLEY'S PLAYERS KEPT GOING AND FORCED A 4-4 DRAW AND ALTHOUGH LYNG HIT THE WOODWORK TWICE AND HAD A GOAL ATTEMPT CLEARED OFF THE LINE IN THE LAST 5 MINUTES, IT WAS JUSTICE THAT A DRAW WAS A FAIR RESULT. WELL DONE TO ALL THE MUNDESLEY TEAM. GOAL SCORERS; ANT DAVIES (2, 1 PEN); DAVE WILLIAMS (1); LOUIS CHINI (1);MAN OF THE MATCH ANT AND DAVE W, WITH A SPECIAL MENTION TO JIM DRAKE, KEV NEEDHAM, LEIGH PAYNE, LOUIS CINI, PAUL CLARKE, PAUL ELLMORE, DAVE BODYMORE, AND MICHAEL LESTER. NEXT GAME: CUP MATCH, AWAY V CORPUSTY , SAT KO 2.30PM, MEET AT MADRA 1PM.
Corpusty 1 v Mundesley 0 MATCH REPORT:MUNDESLEY were not at their best and struggled to find their usual passing game. Some key players were missing and this poved the difference between the two teams on the day. A strong wind hindered both teams and the home team desrved their 1-0 win. Mundesley made a few more chances in the 2nd half and Leigh Perry hit the post with a good header which leftr the Corpusty keeper routed to his line. Although there was no bad performances and the team worked hard, there was no-one who stood out to have an above average game! Next week will have to see an improvement and this will start with training on Thursday at 7-30pm. man of the match was toddy... , HOME V N.Walsham A , SAT KO 2.30PM, MEET AT MADRA 1-45pm.
Mundesley 5 v North Walsham A 4
Mundesley 5 North Walsham 4 MATCH REPORT:MUNDESLEY continue to be unbeaten in the league after a 5-4 win over a strong N.Walasham A. Mundesley started slow and it was 15 minutes before they started to play their own passing game. despite going behind twice, Mundesley played excellent football and a 2-2 draw at half time flattered the away team! the second half saw Mundesley grow in confidence and they continued to push forward. Lester in midfield is playing better each week and he linked well with left midfielder Moakes. The midfield, led by captain Williams, look a strong force going forward and Leovold is starting to show what we all know he is capable of. the second half saw Mundesley take a 4-2 lead, only for the away team to pull another back. another home goal increased the lead again, but credit to Walsham who pegged another goal back. final score was 5-4. goals for Mundesley; Ant Davies (2); and one each for Dave Williams, Leigh Payne and Timmy Leovold. No game next week but training is on Thursday at 7-30pm. man of the match was MICHAEL LESTER... NEXT GAME: 27TH SEPT;LEAGUE MATCH; HOME V CORPUSTY , SAT KO 2.30PM, MEET AT MADRA 1-45pm.
MATCH REPORT:MUNDESLEY continue to be unbeaten in the league after a 1-1 draw with Corpusty. Mundesley looked out of sorts for the first 10 minutes.A quick decision by Mundesley manager Terry Smith to change the midfield formation bought immediate results as the home team pushed Corpusty back time after time. After several missed oppurtunities a long range shot from Paul Clarke was fumbled into the net by the Corpusty keeper. Mundesley had the ball in the net twice after that only for both to be dissallowed. Half time 1-0. The second half saw Mundesley play some more good football, but they were not at their 100% best, and agian chances were missed. The 3 sustitutes used in the second half by the home team played very well and it shows that Mundesley have a very strong squad this year. A good performance overall, but a last minute goal by Corpusty summed up the match for Mundesley which should have been won in the 1st half. Manager Terry Smith said that after playing the beginning of the season with only 10 or 11 players available, he now has a full squad of 18 players and is happy to have a selection problem of too many players at last! Training is on Thursday at 7pm. man of the match was KEV NEEDHAM...
Mundesley 1 Gimingham 1
Mundesley 1 Hickling 0
Mundesley got back to winning ways thanks to a 1-0 win over Hickling. After dropping points in the last 2 games it was a nervous start and chances were missed again in a scrappy first half. Mundesley looked a composed side after the break and the goal finally came with some good approach work down the left side. Perry Payne held the ball up well and the shot, although goalwards, was credited to Louis Holden after a slight deflection. Mundesley manger Terry Smith was happy to settle for that using the 2 defenders from the subs bench, to ensure the 3 points went to the home team. Well done, a better performance this week...Away next week at Sheringham in the Junior cup. Kick offr 2pm. Training Thursday 7pm.
Junior Cup Sheringham F.C 5 v Mundesley FC 3 Mundesley travelled to Sheringham in the Junior cup, confident of causing a possible upset, but late call-offs by Ant Davies (working) and captain Dave Williams (illness) meant manager Terry Smith had to re-arrange his team at short notice. On a pitch that looked good but did not play as well, both teams found it difficult to create chances. Mundesley settled the better and could have taken the lead if a little more composure had been taken in front of goal, with three good chances being missed. Sheringham did not miss their opportunities when they were gifted two goals. Mundesley created further chances, but it was their lack of physical presence in the tackle which allowed Sheringham a further two goals before half time. Paul clarke finished off a good move just before half time to pull one back for Mundesley; 4-1 at half time. Mundesley had a team talk with the 'hair dryer' at half time and came out looking to gain some pride in the second half. A change of formation had them creating more chances, and two more goals (Luis Holden and Paul Clarke) were scored to Sheringhams one. Final score 5-3. Joint man-of-the-match were Luis Holden and Robert Todd for their workrate and never give up approach. Joint man of the match were Luis holden and Robert Todd for their workrate, team spirit and never give up approach. A much improved team performance in the second half, Mundesley will be wanting 3 points in the league next week when Coltishall visit Mundesley. Manager Terry Smith is looking forward to strengthening his team with the welcome return of Tim Leavold to the first team. Joint man of the match were Luis holden and Robert Todd for their workrate and never give up approach.
Mundesley 2 Coltishall 0 Mundesley were back in league action on Saturday when they entertained Coltishall, a team high on confidence after a narrow defeat last week to East Ruston. A very blustery wind made for difficult conditions and the Mundesley keeper James Cobbold showed great confidence in dealing with the high balls sent goalward by Coltishall. In a first half in which the home team dominated, it was a case of missed oppurtunities and an effective but fraustrating offside trap played by Coltishall looked like it would be goaless at half time. However Mundesley finally found thier stride and two excellent goals in quick succession from Perry Payne and Dave Williams meant it was a comfortable 2-0 lead for Mundesley at half time. The second half saw a spirited away side push forward, but they came up against a strong back four of Jim Drake, Glen Brown, Phil Loose and Robert Todd, who looked determined to keep a second consecative league clean sheet. A point blank save from keeper Cobbold was as close as Coltishall came and it was the the midfied of Mundesley that took control creating chance after chance, with Tim Leavold hitting the post with the keeper well beaten. Wide players Michael Lester and Leigh Payne kept the Coltishall full backs pushed back, leaving the Mundesley midfield trio of Dave williams, Tim Leavold and Ant Davies to dominate the midfield. Perry and Leigh Payne were substituted late in the second half, allowing Loui Cini and Paul Ellmore to continue their good work. Overall a good performance by Mundesley, but once again, better finishing would have seen a bigger scoreline; but credit to Coltishall who defended to the end and i am sure will cause an upset or two this season.Final score 2-0. Joint man-of-the-match were Jim Drake and Michael Lester.. next game; Away v Erpingham, KO 2pm. Training Thursday 7-15pm
Erpingham 1 Mundesley 1 Mundesley travelled to Erpingham looking for 3 points to keep them in the 1st division championship race.Mundesley started well and created some good chances, with the midfield centre trio of Leavold, Williams and Cini dominating possession and Michael Lester again in outstanding form. Erpingham defended in numbers and when Mundesley did get a chance on goal it was poor finishing which kept it 0-0 until a cleared ball played back into the box saw Leigh Payne send a well placed header over the advancing keeper. 1-0 to mundesley at half time. The second half saw the away team miss further chances and Mundesley keeper James Cobbold pulled off a good save to keep it 1-0 as Erpingham looked to threaten. The missed chances were to prove costly as Erpingham scored an equaliser with 15 minutes to go. The referee decided a two handed push on Glen Brown in the box was not a foul and as the ball was cleared it hit an Erpingham player to fly past a helpless James Cobbold Iin the Mundesley goal. Pushing forward after that Mundesley hit the woodwork 4 times in quick succession. The Erpingham keeper made sure it was a point gained for the home team, but Mundesley must look at it as 2 points dropped. Final score 1-1. In a wide open league this season mant results are going against the league position and Erpingham played above their pre match postion of last place in the league. Mundesley manager Terry Smith was dissapointed with not securing all 3 points and said "in the dressing room after the match we were all dissapointed at not securing all 3 points today.This was not a bad performance by the team, but some players could do a little bit 'extra', and that little bit 'extra' is what we are missing at the moment. Not for the first time it has highlighted a need for us to kill the game off when we have the chances to do so. A full squad should be available for selection next week, and i look forward to the players giving the 'extra' when they are selected to play for the Mallards. We have a squad that can win the league this season, and we want 3 points from each of our remaining November fixtures "
Mundesley 1 Happisburgh 1 Mundesley entertained second placed Happisburgh and were quickly a goal down. Failing to clear the ball, the Happisbugh scorer fired the ball into the top corner leaving the Mundesley keeper rooted to the spot. A frantic 10 minutes saw the home team under pressure with the woodwork to thank for keeping the score at 1-0. Finally Mundesley got into their pattern of play and a fine move down the right involving Brown, Williams, Holden and a cross by Clark, finished by Lester, powering a header past the Happisburgh keeper. 1-1 at half time. The second half was dominated by a fired up Mundesley and there only looked like there would be one winner...but not for the first time the lack of composure in front of goal was to cost the home team 2 more points. Substitutes Perry Payne and Jim Drake came on as late substitutes and nearly snatched an injury time winner, Drakes long throw-in met well by Payne but the woodwork ensured a draw for the away side. This was an excellent game, a credit to the NEN league, and both teams fought well to keep their league positions. Mundesley played some of their best football of the season and it can only be a matter of time before they go on to beat a team by five or six goals. A full squad is available again for selection next week, and with only 2 points seperating the top 5 teams, a strong squad will be required as we enter the winter months. This is a very strong league this season, and with games in hand half the teams are able to take top spot. This league will not be won by anyone before Easter and may go all the way to last few games! NEXT GAME: 15th November Away v Horning, KO 2pm. Training Thursday 7-15pm.(shooting practice!)
Horning 2 V Mundesley 3 extra pictures on game pics page by Daves Dad.
Mundesley travelled to Horning, another team that could go top of division one if they were to win their games in hand. In a break with tradition Mundesley started the stronger and took an early lead with a goal from striker Clark. Mundesley knew that a win would keep them in the mix at the top of a very tight league and a second goal soon followed. But mundesley failed to capatlise on some good approach play and it was Horning who played themselves back into the game with a well taken header past the approaching Mundesley keeper, Cobbold. 2-1 to Mundesley at half time. Again the away side were quick out of the blocks and scored a 3rd goal to secure 3 points. Horning piled on the pressure late in the game and were given a penalty to make the final score 3-2 to Mundesley. Managers thoughts "i was happy with our team, we worked hard to try and make things work and tried to play football in all areas, but it was more brawn than skill today as we battled a hard to secure the 3 points. Next week sees a a quick return to Happisburgh after the 1-1 draw at MADRA last week-this could be an early 6 pointer!" a reminder that training is Thursday's at 7-15pm, with a full squad available for selection you don't want to miss it! NEXT GAME: 22nd November Away v Happisburgh, KO 2pm-meet at Ludham 1-15pm.
Mundesley 6 North Walsham Old Boys 1 Mundesley entertained local rivals North Walsham Old Boys in what was billed as a mid season six pointer! The home started very well and with excellent passing and movement soon had the Old Boys chasing shadows.... Mundesley going 2-0 up in the first 15 minutes with Perry Payne scoring both goals. With the home team looking solid at the back the wide players of Ashley Moakes and Michael Lester were causing the Walsham full backs problems. Excellent work in the midfield by Ant Davies, Luis Holden and Dave Williams prevented the away team from settling into a passing game and this meant Walsham had to look for the long ball which was easily dealt with by the home defence of Needham, Loose, Brown and Cini. After 20 minutes Mundesley captain Holden picked up an injury and was replaced by Lauren Stroud. Mundesley continued to press forward and a goal each for Davies and Moakes made it 4-0. Lack of concentration led to Walsham scoring a headed goal in the last minute of the first half. Half time 4-1. As expected in the second half, the away team threw all they had at the Mundesley goal. But the home team defended very well and it was Leigh Payne who scored 2 breakaway goals after coming on as a substitute for his brother Perry. Final score 6-1. This result means both Mundesley teams are top of their repective leagues - a fantastic achievment. Mundesley have appointed John Bonham to the management team to assist Terry Smith and they would remind all players that training is Thursday's at 7-15pm - with all the squad available for selection you don't want to miss it! NEXT GAME: 6th December Away v North Walsham A, KO 2pm-meet at 1-15pm.
Top of the table Mundesley travelled the short distance to play North Walsham A and on a poor pitch in very wet conditions it was the home team which started the better. Mundesley found it hard to play their passing game and it was Walsham who looked like scoring first. Only some oustanding saves by James Cobbold, the Mundesley keeper, kept it 0-0 for most of the first half, but he was eventually beaten after a long ball caught out the Mundesley defence, and the home team led 1-0. Finally, Mundesley found their game and an excellent far post header by Ashley Moakes finished off a great move and cross by Michael Lester. A second well taken goal quickly followed by stand in forward Luis Cini. Moakes found the net again after a good solo run and at half time it was 3-1. After the break Walsham pushed forward but the Mundesley midfield and defence are well organised and never looked like giving anything away. A good move by Ant Davies and Dave Williams sent Moakes free on the wing and his far post cross was pulled back by Lester for Tim Leavold to tap in from 6 yards out. Cini grabbed another goal and that left the final score 5-1 to Mundesley, keeping them top of the league. Mundesley had 5 players missing from the squad and the management credit the players who are selected for their attitude and 100% committment for the team. A reminder to all players that training is Thursday's at 7-15pm - with 17 in the squad and only 14 on the team sheet, you don't want to miss it! NEXT GAME:13th December, cup game, v Gimmingahm,At MADRA KO 1.30pm-meet at 12-45pm.
Mundesley entertained Gimingham at MADRA in a cup game which brought together the two teams battling for the league title this season. The venue was switched from Gimingham due to the destruction of their club house by fire last week. Both teams battled awful conditions, with a wind-chill worthy of the Artic! Mundesley played the first half with the wind and despite making several chances it was Gimmingham who took the lead from a free kick. Mundesley battled back and played some good football given the conditions and levelled the score after a blistering shot from Williams hit the bar and Moakes followed up to tap in. Half time 1-1. The second half saw both teams try to win it but it was on to extra time. Mundesley took the lead in the first half of extra time when Moakes again scored, placing the ball over the advancing keeper. All players and spectators were now soaked and cold and counting the seconds left when a free kick took Holden the Mundesley keeper by surprise to make it 2-2 at the end of extra time. Penalties saw the referee struggling to find the penalty spot as the crowd waited in the cold and wet for an eventual winner....both teams missed one each in the first 5 penalties and it was down to sudden death. Gimmingham missed and it was left to to Lester to calmly stroke home the winning penalty. A huge thank you to the supporters who managed to stay and watch despite the condtitions and a well done to the MADRA ground staff and officials who had the pitch prepeared for an important game. Also thanks to Tony for fund raising with the football sheet in the clubhouse after the game. A mention also for Granville the match Referee, who gave his match fee to Gimingham to support their new clubhouse fund. Mundesley had players missing from the squad again this week and credit to the players who are selected for their 100% committment for the team in the terrible conditions. It is hard to pick out one player from the squad that all preformed very well, but a mention to Louis Holden for voluntering to stand in as the goalkeeper in what must have been the worst position to play in the worst weather in a match played at MADRA for many a year! NOTE: NO TRAINING THIS WEEK - NEXT GAME:20th December, Away Mundesley secured runners up in the first division with a 3-1 win over Hickling. In a game that Mundesley dominated in the first half, it was Hickling that went in 1-0 up at half time when a lack of concentration let in the home team for a soft goal. Mundesley made two substitutions at half time to rest players for the Rodney Bell semi final on Tuesday. The second half was one sided and saw Mundesley create many chances, and it was Chini that converrted a fumble from the home keeper to make it 1-1 after good work from Davies. A solo effort from P Payne made it 2-1, and a third from Chini was enough to secure all 3 points. Man of the Match was Phil Loose. Mundesley have one league game remaining away on Saturday to Coltishall. Kick off 2-30pm.
Mundesley had a home draw against North Walsham Old Boys in the REW subsidiary cup semi final. On paper this looked like a tough game, coming only 3 weeks after NWOB had held title chasers Mundesley to a 2-2- draw in the league and with injuries and cup tied players it was all against Mundesley leading up to the game. But Mundesley have a strong squad and the players available were eager to take the challenge and it took only 60 seconds as Franklin ran on to a perfect pass from Lester to make it 1-0. NWOB tried to push for the equalizer but the Mundesley defence were well organised with captain Todd breaking up any moves that the Old Boys attempted. Mundesley scored a second from Lester and it was a comfortable 2-0 at half time. The seconfd half saw the unseasonally warm weather take its toll as the players on both sides became tired. Mundesley made a couple of tactical substitutions and this was to be the difference in the second half as 2 further goals from L.Payne and an 80 yard run from left full back Needham saw him get on the end of a fast Mundesley break to score his first goal of the season-well done! Final score 5-0 to Mundesley. Man of the match, Robert Todd. The reserves also won their semi finaare Monday 6th April, Cromer Lifeboat Cup v Runton at Runton. KO 6pm, followed by the Cup Final at Holt FC v Horning on Wednesday 15th April. No Training this week.
Mundesley travelled to East Ruston in a top of the table 'six pointer'. The pitch looked good which was more than could be said of the weather! Mundesley were ready for this one and started well against the strong wind. Ruston were kept to long efforts and Cobbold in the Mundesley goal was never really tested. The away defence of Cini, Loose, Moakes, Needham and captain Todd were strong and did not give an inch to the home team forwards. The second half saw Mundesley on the attack with the wind and after forcing several corners in quick succession it was a handball on the line by a Ruston player that gave Cini the chance to score from the resulting penalty. Suicidal defending from the away team allowed Ruston a soft equaliser and it looked as if it would end 1-1. Mundesley made two attacking substitutuions for the last 15 minutes and continued to press forward with Payne and Harvey going close. The referee indicated only one minute remaining when the home keeper kicked his clearance to Mundesley's Franklin who volleyed the ball straight past him for an outstanding winning goal. Final score 2-1 to Mundesley. Man of the match, Ant Davies. Training this week at MADRA on Wednesday at 7.30pm. Next game Home v NWOB. kick off 2pm, meet at MADRA 1-15pm.
Mundesley travelled to Stalham A in the quarter finals of the subsidery cup. On an excellent pitch and perfect weather for football it was Mundesley that always looked in control. Stalham fought bravely but it was the away side that took it's chances and ended the first half 3-1 ahead. The second half saw a further 4 goals for Mundesley to make the final score 7-1. Mundesley goals scorers were Payne (4), Harvey (2) and Lester. Franklin stepped up from the reserves and was man of the match with his drive, passion and energy to go from box to box for 90 minutes. The semi final is on the 4th April against NWOB. Training this week at MADRA on Wednesday at 7pm. Next game away v East Ruston. kick off 2-30pm, meet at East Ruston 1-45pm.
Match report v Happisburgh:
Mundesley entertained Happisburgh in the League cup semi final. Happisburgh were very organised and looked up for the game, where as some of the Mundesley team never got 'up for it' either before or during the 90 minutes and this let their teammates down very badly. A very dissapointing performance saw Mundesley wait until 20 minutes from the end to place the away keeper under real pressure, and on another day it could have been 3-3 and extra time...but it was to be Happisburgh's day. 1-0 down at half time, Mundesley pressed for the eqauliser and were caught twice on the break. Final score 3-0 to Happisburgh. A mention to Paul Ellmore, the Mundesley keeper, who saved a second half penalty-a great save. NEXT GAME:14th March. - League, away v NWOB. Kick off 2-30 pm. Meet at NWOB 1-45pm.
Mundesley entertained Erpingham in a league fixture and it was credit to the away side who played the 90 minutes with only 10 men. Mundesley had to call on 6 reserve team players who perfomed very very well- a special mention to Franklin who had an exceptional match in the centre of midfield and will be a contender for first team selection next season. Mundesley kept the pressure on the ten men of Erpingham and it was 4-0 at half time thanks to goals from Moakes (2), Cini and Clark. Erpingham never gave in and created a couple of good chances which were well saved by reserve keeper Ellmore.Two further goals, one each from Harvey and Linsey made it 6-0 at full time. Three points and a job well done this week for Mundesley. Semi final of the League cup next week at home to Happisburgh. NEXT GAME:7th March. - CUP, Home v Happisburgh. Kick off 2-00 pm. Meet at MADRA 1-15pm.
Mundesley travelled to Erpingham in the REW Subsidury Cup 2nd Round. It was Mundesley who started the quickest with the front pairing of Michael Harvey and Perry Payne looking sharp and only the home keeper kept it a 0-0 fo 15 minutes. But it wasn't long before the first goal came as the Mundesley midfield players Holden, Leigh Payne, Lester and Leavold were creating chance after chance for the forwards. Two goals from Harvey and Perry Payne and a first half consolation free kick from Erpingham made it 4-1 to the visitors at half time. Shortly after the re-start Harvey was replaced by Clarke. Erpingham pushed forward in the second half but the away defence of Davies, Moakes, Needham and Drake always looked in control. A change of formation by Mundesley to counter the home teams tactics saw them push Erpingham back and more goals soon followed. Perry Payne scored a second half hat-trick to take his tally to five for the match - a great all round performance with superb finishing in front of goal. A penalty was converted by Ant Davies and a further goal by substitute Clarke made it 9-1 to Mundesley at full time. Well done to all the squad this week, a great team performance, and proof that there will be a push for a starting eleven place when everyone is available in 2 weeks time! Back in league action next week- at home to Erpingham, where 3 points must be taken to keep the pressure on Gimingham who dropped points to Corpusty this week. Gimingham will be feeling the pressure knowing they have to play Corpusty again and East Ruston- both teams right behind them in the league. ... NEXT GAME:28th FEB. - league, at home v Erpingham. Kick off 2-30 pm. Meet at MADRA 1-45pm.
Mundesley were back in league action this week and entertained Horning. Mundesley looked dangerous from the start and quickly got their passing game underway, leading to several chances. In true Mundesley tradition this season it was excellent build up, but a clinical finish was missing once again. Midway through the first half a tentative shot from a Horning forward squeezed past the home keeper to make it 1-0 to the visitors.Horning pushed forward as Mundesley attempted to claw back the goal and it was a good tackle by Moakes for Mundesley that saw a reaction from a Horining player and he saw a red card from the referee. Mundesley created further chances but it was 1-0 to Horning at half time. Mundesley changed the formation in the second half to allow for the 10 men of Horning defending their 1-0 lead. It took 20 minutes of the second half for Mundesley defender Drake to score with a great header from a Cini free kick. At 1-1 the home team pushed on and two more goals came from Harvey and Davies. Final score 3-1. A good result and with some regular players missing it showed the squad has strentgh in depth.training has resumed at North Walsham Sports Hall on Wednesday 8pm. NEXT GAME:21st FEB. - Cup, Away v Erpingham. Kick off 1.45 pm. Meet at Erpingham 1pm.
Mundesley travelled the short journey to local rivals Gimingham for a Subsidary cup match. Both teams found it hard to settle on the infamous Gimingham pitch, and the cold wind did little to help! But it was Mundesley which pushed forward and created some good chances before a goal mouth scramble ended with Michael Lester tucking the ball in from all of half a yard! Soon after Perry Payne beat the home keeper only for the referee to wave 'play on' as "the whole of the ball had not crossed the line"..Gimingham tried to create chances but it was the defence of Needham, Loose, Drake and man of the match Glen Brown who kept the home team at bay. Luis holden played a vital defensive midfield role for the Mallards, which meant Lester, Cini, Moakes and Davies could push forward; looking for the second goal. A poor first half for the spectators saw Mundesley lead by 1-0. The second half saw a similar story until Mundesley made some positive substitutes who quickened the pace. And it was substitute Michael Harvey who used his pace to beat two defenders and place the ball past the advancing home keeper. The reserve team of Mundesley are also having an excellent season in Division 3 and this match proved that there are some reserve team players who are ready to step up to the first team. As we near the end of the season and the medal opportunities move closer the battle for selection has started!! Final score 2-0. Well done Mundesley... . NEXT GAME:14th FEB. - Home v HORNING. kick off 2pm. meet at MADRA 1.15pm.
Mundesley entertained East Ruston at MADRA and looked like they would carry on from last week as they created chance after chance, but some poor finishing and good goalkeeping kept the score 0-0 at half time. Mundesley dominated in the early second half and were rewarded with a penalty which was converted by Ant Davies. The strong crosswind and very cold conditions made for a poor second half and both teams looked as if they were waiting for the 90 minutes to come as early! The home team then made two unforced errors which resulted in East Ruston going 2-1 up in the match without before that having an attack or shot on goal that threatened the Mundesley keeper. Final score 2-1 to East Ruston. A dissapointing result but the league will have a few more twists and turns before the season ends - but Mundesley will look back and think of the lack of concertration (throughout the team) which has cost them points this season. Another lesson learnt and on to the next game... NO TRAINING this week. NEXT GAME:7th FEB.CUP MATCH - away v GIMMINGHAM. kick off 1.30pm. meet at GIMINGHAM 12.45pm.
Mundesley travelled to Happisburgh in a match billed as a league 'six pointer'. In the opening encounters it was Mundesley that looked sharper and had the will to win the 50/50 tackles. After an excellent passing move, Leigh Payne chested the ball to Loui Cini to finish in the bottom corner to make it 1-0 to Mundesley. Happisburgh tried in vain to hustle their way past a well organised defence, but it was Mundesley's passing game continued to win the day and which won tem a throw in deep in the home team half. Jim 'Delap' Drake launched the ball to Leigh Payne and the ball fell kindly to Ashley Moakes who turned well and tucked it past the stranded keeper to make it 2-0 with 25 minutes gone in the first half. The Mundesley centre midfield of Davies and Leavold began to dominate and it wasn't long before the move of the match saw Michael Lester put the perfect cross in for Leigh Payne to meet it with a header at full speed; another good goal making it 3-0 to Mundesley at half time. In the second half Happisburgh tried to push forward but the Mundesley defence of Drake, Loose, Todd and Needham were well organised, with their only real chance on goal well saved by the advancing Cobbold in the Mundesley goal. The away team continued to create chances and looked the fitter side. Second half substitutes Perry Payne, Lee Franklin and Michael Harvey came on and continued to create chances which tested the Happisburgh keeper. A fantastic performance and a result which keeps Mundesley firmly in the Division One title race. Well done Mundesley.man of the match was Leigh Payne AND a very well done to all of the squad. Next TRAINING is Wednesday at the Sports Hall, North Walsham, 8-9pm. NEXT GAME:31st January.HOME v EAST RUSTON. kick off 2pm. meet at MADRA 1-15pm.
Horning v Mundesley Mundesley travelled to Horning in the league cup and boked their place in the Semi-finals with a comfortable 5-1 victory. Mundesley could have been five or six up before they eventually scored through Leigh Payne. Horning made the most of their height advantage when thhey scored with a header from a well taken free kick. Mundesley went ahead again with a brave header from Louis Holden. half time 2-1 to Mundesley. the second half saw Horning go all out for the equaliser with the away keeper, James Cobbold, on his toes to deny them a couple of close range efforts. But it was mundesley that went on to win it with to further goals from Holden to complete his hat trick and ant Davies scoring a penalty won by Michael Lester. Well done to Mundesley. NOTE: Next training is Wednesday at the Sports Hall North Walsham, 8-9pm. NEXT GAME:24th January.AWAY v HAPPISBURGH. kick off 2pm. meet at Ludham 1-15pm.
Mundesley travelled to Corpusty on another fine Saturday! They started well, playing some very good football and looked like team to score first. Several chances went by before a ball over the top caught out Mundesley and they were 1-0 down. Both teams scored again; the Mundesley goal well taken by Leigh Payne, to make it 2-1 at half time. In the second half Mundesley made 3 substitutions to try and win the game and looked like they had scored from a corner only to have it disallowed - which took both teams by surprise! It was Corpusty which scored a third which was given by the referee after over ruling an offside flaged by the linesman. Mundesley pulled one back with a header by Ant Davies to make the final score 3-2 to Corpusty. The Christmas break is here and Mundesley are top of the league, and most teams would have settled for that when they started the season, so we shall return in January with everything to play for. | | Reserve reports Mundesley Res 1 v Cromer YOB 4 Managers Report: The first game of the new season saw the reserves start disappointingly with a 4-1 home defeat, a score that flattered the away side. The home side set up solidly and were well in the game with the score at 0-0 at half time. Everyone stuck to their task well and tackled and battled and created a couple of half chances with some neat passing and good attacking play down the wings from Stephens and Moakes, while Dunning in goal, making his Mundesley full league debut made a couple of comfortable saves. The only disappointments in the first half was Ellis picking up a nasty injury which could end his season very prematurely and Moakes picking up a needless caution for hand ball. Mundesley started poorly in the 2nd half and tiredness clearly crept in, going down 2-0, despite the best efforts of Dunning. Never giving up the team rallied and got it back to 2-1 with a fine move starting from Stephens ending in a cross from Payne being headed in from close range from Linsey to open his account for the season. Mundesley created more half chances including a couple of headers from Seton and shots from Payne and Harvey before two wonder goals, an excellently taken header and a shot from 40 yards ended any hopes of a draw. There is work to be done, including on the fitness, but the team showed good signs, a good spirit and with players to come back, the team should be optimisitic of challenging for the division 3 title. Man of the match was Stephens.
Mundesley Res 2 v Aldborough 3 Reserve Match Report Mundesley improved on last week's result but still went down 3-2 at home to Aldborough. With Bodymore coming in for Dunning in goal, Emerson playing his first game of the season in for the injured Ellis and Merron in for 1st team bound Moakes, the changes inevitably showed with Mundesley 3-0 down at half time. The first, was a harsh penalty for hand ball and Aldborough took control with 2 more before the break. There were positive signs with Stephens again beating his man time and time again down the right, some good crosses from both Payne and Harvey and some nice touches from Merron and Seton. With a stern talking to at half time about commitment and effort and some defensive coaching from Bunting, the team started to turn things around. Linsey scored early on in the second half, his second in as many games - with a well taken lob over the advancing keeper before the manager made a double change bringing himself on for Coppen and Bunting on for Campbell. Seton then reduced the deficit further by scoring from a free kick and the team looked more and more likely to get something from the game. Stephens caused more havoc down the right taking his man on and beating him every time, while Seton missed a sitter from 6 yards and others had half chances. The draw wasn't to be and Aldborough went away very fortunate with the win. Man of the match was Stephens.
Gimingham Res 2 Mundesley Res 4 A much improved Mundesley got their first win of the season making hard work of a comfortable fixture. Making 5 changes to the starting line-up and including 2 new signings in the squad, Mundesley started positively and went 1 up from a sweeping move down the right ending in a cross from Hyland and finished by Seton. Despite creating numerous chances including a miss from close range from Linsey, a header from Seton and Hyland and Stephens continuously getting in behind the Gimingham defence, it was Gimingham who scored next to make it 1-1. Mundesley started slowly in the second half and undeservedly fell behind. Harwood, making his first start of the season then drew Mundesley level and the manager made changes in an attempt to win the game. This included player/manager Stroud going in goal, McCrory coming on for Payne and Bales making his debut for the club coming on at right back for the injured Coppen. The team rallied and with deft through balls from Seton and incredible runs from Stephens and Hyland Mundesley created chance after chance with McCrory, Harwood, Stephens, Linsey, Harvey and Hyland all going close. Harwood eventually gave Mundesley the lead, for his second of the game and cap a man of the match performance, put through by Hyland, and then Linsey was rewarded for his hard work with a well taken one on one, again put through by the impressive Hyland to make it 4-2.
Mundesley 3 Briston Res 2 Mundesley, with 5 changes from the win at Gimingham, came from behind for the second game running to beat Briston 3-2. With the referee absent for the game Stroud took charge before 1st team boss Smith took over after 15 minutes. The teams were closely matched in the first half but it was Mundesley that had most of the possession and created chances with Seton, Linsey and Merron all going close. Despite these opportunities it was Briston who had the best chance bringing out an excellent save from Dunning and the teams went in at half time goalless. Mundesley started positively in the 2nd half and despite some tight exchanges took the lead. A throw in from the right touchline from Bunting was flicked on by an opponent under pressure from Merron and Seton hooked the ball on the half volley in to the top corner for his third goal of the season. In a bizarre repeat of the game against Gimingham Mundesley threw away their lead and looked like they would have their 3rd consecutive home defeat. Firstly, two individual defensive errors lead to an excellent cross from the right which was volleyed in from close range to equalise and Briston took the lead from a long range speculative effort which slipped through the finger tips of Dunning. Mundesley never gave up and a superb move with excellent interchanging of passing between a number of players ended with a wonderful cross from Stephens from the right and Linsey drilled it in from close range to score for the 4th consecutive game. The manager then brought himself on for Merron, pushed Harvey up front and put Bunting wide left and it wasn't long before he was in the action taking a poor challenge which lead to the Briston player being sent off. With a minute to go Mundesley kept pushing and got their reward with Stephens passing to Harwood who found himself one on one with the keeper and from 6 yards placed the ball in the bottom left hand corner to score the winner - and his third goal in two games - with 10 seconds left on the clock. An incredible match which Mundesley made hard work of but ultimately deserved to win. Man of the match was Seton.
Super Smashing Great! The reserves continued their good run to make it 3 wins on the spin with an emphatic 8-0 demolition of Holt Colts to go 2nd in division 3. Fielding a strong side with a 4-5-1 formation, Mundesley started 'up the pitch' and going into the wind led 2-0 at the break with goals from Harwood and Linsey. An injury to Bayes also saw Payne in to the action early on. With goals came confidence, and with growing confidence the team played good passing football and scored more goals. Stephens was excellent again down the right and set up 3 goals and finally scored his first of the season after a great ball from Franklin. Harwood set one up and scored a delightful second, chipping the keeper and took his tally to 5 in the last 3 games. Harvey added to the scoring with his first of the season and Linsey scored again and eventually completed an impressive hatrick to continue his run of scoring in every game so far and make it 7 goals in 5 games. With 10 minutes to go, the player manager Stroud, took himself off and was replaced by new signing (Super) Mario Persico who duly completed the rout to make it 8-0 and notch the first clean sheet of the season. Well done to all involved including Bodymore in goal, Wayne Ellis for running the line, Derek Campbell for washing the kit last week and getting better every game and Bunting for washing the kit this week - all is appreciated. Man of the match - Grant Linsey.
Mundesley 8 Hickling 3 Mundesley travelled to Hickling and notched up their 4th consecutive win with an 8-3 demolition. Mundesley started without captain Seton (illness), full back Bunting (watching England at Wembley!) and player manager Stroud was on the bench. Showing strength in depth, in came Bayes at right back, Leavold for Seton and Moakes in at left back to allow Campbell to switch to centre back. A bright start saw Harvey have an excellent chance after only 5 minutes but shot wide and it took Mundesley 17 minutes to eventually break the deadlock. Payne found himself out wide on the left, cut inside his man and drove a right footed shot through the keeper. 6 minutes later Payne doubled the away sides lead shooting again right footed past the keeper after excellent work from Harvey. A minute later and Linsey was on the score sheet to keep his record of scoring in every game this season, Bodymore the provider from a long clearance.Harwood then took over with a sensational display of control, compsure and finishing of unerring accuracy. First he cut inside from the inside right channel, moved the ball to his left foot and curled the ball in to the far corner hitting the inside of the post on the way in to make it 4-0. After a little chipped ball over the top from Payne, Harwood then hit a cracking second in the top corner and a minute later completed the perfect hat-trick - again slotting it in the corner in off the post after another assist from Payne, which took it to 6-0 and make it 6 goals in 20 incredible minutes. This took Harwood' tally to 8 in 4 games and, like Linsey has scored in every game he has played in. With no let up in sensational attacking play Mundesley then made it magnificent 7 with Linsey' second of the game lobbing the keeper expertly after a through ball from Stephens. The perfect half was spoilt by a consolation goal for the home side after Mundesley failed to clear their lines. The second half started slowly and after only 5 minutes Campbell was adjudged to have fouled the Hickling forward inside the penalty area and the resulting spot kick was duly converted. On 65 minutes Hickling reduced the deficit to 7-3 after a defender got caught in possession and the striker finished well. Mundesley settled again and took back control and were rewarded with an 8th goal for the second consecutive week - Linsey completing his hat-trick (and making it 10 goals in 6 games) tapping in from close range after Harvey's shot was saved. Man of the match - Harwood (close joint second was Linsey and Payne).
Mundesley Res 3 V East Ruston Res 0 Mundesley notched up their fifth consecutive win with a comprehensive and comfortable 3-0 victory over East Ruston. With Bunting returning at full back and Ellmore coming in from the first team into centre back, the team was strong and Mundesley dominated the game from start to finish, taking just one minute from kick off for Linsey to expertly round the keeper only for his shot to be cleared by a defender. Linsey, determined to keep his goal in every game record in tact, then hit the back of the net from an excellent Stephens cross only to be flagged marginally offside.
East Ruston matched the home side physically and kept them on their toes with a cross shot which flashed across the face of goal after 7 minutes but it was Mundesley that made all the running. Leavold created the moment of the first half, when a sensational run, dribbling and weaving with incredible balance, took him past four players only for his low drive to be saved by the Ruston keeper. The break finally came on 16 minutes with Mundesley capitalising from a goal mouth scramble ending in a shot from Harwood which Linsey poked in from close range to continue his phenomenal start to the season with scoring in every single game.The rest of the first half was peppered with chances for the home side with Leavold shooting into the side netting and then Linsey hitting the cross bar from close range after Harvey had hit the bar initially. On 34 minutes Linsey superbly took the ball past the defender and curled the ball round the keeper but also round the far post and wide. Soon after, a fantastic cross from Stephens was this time put wide by Payne.
With half time approaching Bodymore kept his concentration in goal and made an excellent outstretched save and Leavold hit the side netting again from close range.
The second half appeared no different from the first with Mundesley in complete control but unable to take their chances. Leavold had another chance – this time saved from close range and on 62 minutes Stephens had a headed half chance from a pin point cross from Moakes. Linsey then scored a superb 2nd, finishing with an excellent strike from a Moakes pass to make it 12 goals in 7 games and 8 in his last 3 and on 78 minutes Mundesley had a chance to wrap the game up with a penalty for hand ball but it was saved well from the disappointed Harwood.
Seton made his introduction in the second half for Payne and had a couple of good long range efforts but Mundesley had one further scare in defence with Ellmore hitting his own cross bar with an attempted back pass to Bodymore. Finally, with 6 minutes left on the clock Mundesley killed the game off. A free kick was awarded 25 yards from goal and Seton curled it sublimely into the top corner to make it 3-0 and game, set and match. Man of the match: Ashley Moakes.
Primary Cup Mundesley Res 6 V Marham Wanderers 2 Playing against Division 2 opposition of the North West Norfolk league, Mundesley cruised to a comfortable victory in the Primary Cup with a 6-2 win against Marham. Mundesley took the lead through Linsey, capitalising on a mistake by the keeper to head home from 6 yards and keep his incredible run of scoring in every game of the season so far. Harwood made it 2-0 with an excellent mazy run which ended with the keeper on his backside and an empty net in which to tap into. Seton effectively killed off the opposition, with a sensational, ‘goal of the season’ contender, seeing the keeper of his line and from fully 35 yards struck a stunning shot over the keeper and in to the top corner. Mundesley continued to dominate, and after excellent work holding the ball up from Linsey, Stephens beat his man, slid the ball across the penalty box and the opposite flank man Harvey, finished clinically for his 2nd goal of the season. Payne then completed an incredible, near perfect first half display with his own contender for goal of the season. From a direct free kick almost 40 yards out Payne struck a high, curling shot which nestled into the top right hand corner to make it 5-0. With the game wrapped up Mundesley took their foot off the gas and allowed Marham some second half consolation. First they were given a lifeline from the penalty spot, Franklin adjudged to have fouled and then they reduced the arrears further with a scrappy second from a goal mouth scramble. The home side settled again and started to play good passing football with interchanges between Moakes and Harvey down the left and Emerson and Stephens down the right and got their reward with a 6th goal. Harwood made the run into the box, slid the ball across and Linsey scored from close range to make it 2 for the afternoon and 14 for an impressive season so far. Mundesley will be looking forward with confidence to round 3 of the cup as they look to make progress on all fronts this season. Final score 6-2; MoM Derek Campbell.
Mundesley Res 3 Blakeney 2 match report: Mundesley beat a stubborn Blakeney 3-2 to notch their 6th consecutive league win.
Mundesley took just 3 minutes to take the lead with Harvey finishing well for his third of the season after excellent work from Linsey and Moakes. Rather than the floodgates opening, Blakeney stayed in the game due to a very poor showing from most of the home side, which eventually lead to a well taken equaliser on 22 minutes. With the score at 1-1 the manager made a change early on in the 2nd half with Stephens coming on for Payne but it was the away side that took the lead to make it 2-1. The home side manager then withdrew the cautioned Harwood, who was replaced by the patient Bayes and switched to a 4-4-2 formation with Moakes going wide left and Harvey joining Linsey up front. Mundesley, through the changes and constant rallying from skipper Bunting, drew level on 74 minutes, Stephens tapping in from close range after a save from the keeper. Bunting, leading by example then made many forward runs to try and drive the team on for a winner and almost did that himself, hitting a stunning strike which crashed against the cross bar. With just 2 minutes of normal time on the clock, Mundesley continued to push on and with bodies in the box Bunting crossed for Seton to slot a left footed shot from 6 yards out past the keepers despairing dive to win an entertaining game. For the third time in an already eventful season Mundesley came from behind to win the game 3-2 and the manager will expect major improvements with two tough away games coming up at Cawston and Haisbro. Man of the match - Jamie Bunting.
Mundesley 3 Cawston 1 Mundesley travelled to 2nd place Cawston with Bunting and Seton in temporary charge, they did not let the gaffer down with a 3-1 win. Mundesley started strongly and opened the scoring on 15 minutes with Harvey getting his 4th of the season from a pass from Stephens. With the manager checking in by phone he was able to hear commentary on Linsey doubling the away sides lead on 20 minutes, getting his 15th of an impressive season. Mundesley thoroughly outplayed Cawston and were 3-0 up at half time thanks to Stephens’ 3rd goal of the season from Harwood’s pass.
Cawston got one back direct from a free kick in the second half and Payne replaced the injured Stephens but Mundesley kept their superb run going with 7 league wins on the bounce and 8 in all competitions. Manager Stroud said, “I am really proud of the lads today, this win puts us in a good position but we cannot keep conceding silly goals and need to concentrate over 90 minutes if we are to win the division and keep our cup run going. I would just like to also thank Jamie Bunting and Luke Seton for their management today in my absence, it was a huge help.”
Mundesley remain clear at the top of the table regardless of other results but are still finding it hard to keep clean sheets and win in both halves. Improvement still needed with a tough away game at Haisbro coming up.
Man of the match: Michael Harvey
With a strong squad, Mundesley travelled to 2nd place Haisbro and were extremely disappointed to come away with only a point after a 2-2 draw. Starting brightly, Moakes and Harvey both cut through the opposition time after time and several chances were missed. Linsey, Seton, Moakes and Harvey were all guilty of not making the keeper work harder and on another day the game would have been over by half time. Despite being in full control it was Haisbro who took the lead after their forward latched on to a long ball behind the defence and beat Bodymore to the ball to slide home into an unguarded net. Mundesley continued to play excellent football, passing and moving at pace, but with the final kick of the first half Haisbro made it a 2-0 after a goalkeeping error and were stunned and disappointed to go in behind at the break. At half time the manager made a change, taking himself off for Campbell, who was the man of the 2nd half with exceptional tackling, running with the ball, crossing and link up play with Moakes and Harvey. The change gave a quick return as Linsey, with his 16th of the season scored an excellently taken volley to reduce the deficit to 2-1. The away side continued to dominate possession and pushed for an equaliser. Leigh Payne came on for Linsey and looked sharp, passed well and the pressure told as Mundesley were awarded a penalty which Harvey duly converted for his 4th goal in the last 4 games to make it 2-2. Looking now for a winner captain Bunting kept driving the team forward and Mundesley were almost rewarded as Payne made a skilful, driving run but his shot was well saved when perhaps other players were better placed. Stephens was withdrawn late on for Jamie Payne and Haisbro had a couple of late free kicks but Bodymore was rarely troubled in the 2nd half thanks to some superb tackling from Franklin and Emerson to make it honours even for the top two teams in the division. Man of the match: Lee Franklin.
Mundesley travelled over an hour to play Docking in the Primary Cup 3rd round and with only a squad of 11 were comprehensively beaten 3-0. Docking were stronger and quicker in all areas and were 2-0 up at half time with Mundesley only having a couple of half chances. The second half saw the away side play better and only conceded one more thanks to some incredible saves from Ellmore and last ditch defending from Emerson, Campbell and Bunting. Again Mundesley had some opportunities with Harvey having a couple of good left foot strikes, his best chance coming from a long ball over the top from Stroud, but the home side deserved their victory to progress to round 4. Mundesley should keep their heads high as they were beaten by a side who have won all 9 of their league games in division 2 of the North West Norfolk league and won at least 4 more in cups in an impressive season. The team should now focus on securing victory at Cromer next Saturday – one of only 2 teams that have beaten Mundesley in the league this year. Man of the match: Paul Ellmore. Mallards Beaten by Briston Mundesley ended the season on a low with a 4-1 away defeat at Briston. In their only evening kick off, the Mallards started with 10 men due to a player getting lost on the way to the ground and this did not help the cause of tired legs! Mundesley did have chances from Linsey and Payne but it was Briston who were 1 up by half-time. The young Frost in goal also made some saves to keep this score down. Briston went 2-0 up in the second half but the Mallards rallied and got back into it from a great run and finish from Harvey for his 12 of the season for the reserves. Mundesley never really got playing in the way they know they can but did have other chances from Franklin and Linsey but it was Briston who put the chances away with 2 late goals to win 4-1. It could have been far worse had it not been for more good saves from Frost in goal. Man of the Match Martin Frost.
Mallards’ Double Delight
Mundesley reserves completed a league and cup double by comprehensively beating Gimingham 4-0 in the Ebridge Feeds division 3 league cup final. Gimingham started brightly, but it was Mundesley who took control, and the lead, through Harwood after good work from Hyland, for the teams' 100th goal of the season. Linsey then calmly lobbed the advancing keeper for his 31st of the campaign after Captain Bunting had beaten the defence with a delicate chip. Harwood made it 3-0 by half-time for his 22nd of the season and the game was all but over. Mundesley dominated thanks to strong displays at the back and with superb skills and runs from Hyland, Campbell and Stephens more goals could have followed but for missed opportunities from L Payne and Harwood. The early exchanges in the second half were won by Gimingham who had to come out fighting to have any chance of salvaging something from the game – if only pride – but could not create clear goal scoring chances. Emerson was replaced by Briggs and Bunting went to centre back and Mundesley pushed on again. Hyland and Campbell continued to mesmerise, both the opposition and the crowd with scintillating, direct runs down the left and they both deserved to score. However, the final goal was left to a familiar source, with great determination, run and defence splitting through ball from Bunting, Harwood was picked out, who calmly rounded the keeper and slotted into an empty net for his deserved hatrick for 4-0. A fitting end to a wonderful season for Harwood, who was the man of the match, and the whole Mundesley squad who finally realised their potential with two trophies from only 3 competitions entered. Well done to the whole squad – an incredible achievement.
Mundesley Deliver the Goods to Become Division 3 Champions Mundesley beat 2nd place Haisbro 3-1, to become division 3 league champions with only 1 game to spare. The home side were set up in a 5-4-1 formation with Moakes and Stephens acting as wing backs and started the brighter of the two teams. A couple of half chances were created but the Mallards could not find the back of the net and the job was made harder as they were forced into an early change with Seton picking up an ankle injury and he was replaced by L Payne. With the scores level at half time the team talk was positive as Mundesley were fully in the ascendancy but just needed a chance to score. The whole team were performing superbly but it was Haisbro who went into a shock lead after the home side could not clear their lines and the forward nipped in and slid the ball past Ellmore. Mundesley picked up another injury with the impressive Briggs being replaced by Merron and eventually the manager changed the system. This reaped dividends as Linsey equalised from close range, getting his 30th and one of the most important of the season. Mundesley stepped up the pace and finally had belief as well as tempo and it was Stephens who forced an own goal from a Haisbro defender with 10 minutes to go. The manager made a final change, bringing on J Payne for the tiring Linsey and pushed L Payne up front on his own to try and secure the 3 points. In the dying minutes the ball was cleared by the home side to half way and the consistently impressive Stephens challenged a defender won the ball and broke away, running half the pitch and with the goal at his mercy slid the ball unselfishly to Moakes who stayed with him the whole way and tapped the ball into an empty net. Mundesley deserved the goal and the victory with the hard work from the team today and across the season. The party was soured slightly with the completely unnecessary sending off of a Haisbro player and Emerson, who had performed superbly today, 5 minutes into time added on, with the game effectively over. Many today deserve a mention for good performances, but a special mention goes to Moakes and Stephens for the way they carried out their challenging wing back roles and Bunting for his leadership and team performance in ensuring Haisbro’ best player got no time on the ball. Man of the match was Shaun Stephens.
Mundesley lost for the first time in 15 league games to a 1st team strengthened, bottom of the table, Hickling, going down 7-3. The home side started poorly and never recovered and went in 5-1 down at half time with Harwood scoring their only goal. Despite the score, it certainly wasn’t one sided and in fact Mundesley had much of the possession and most of the chances with Linsey and Payne L squandering great opportunities including a retaken penalty missed twice. The second half gave the chance for some pride and Mundesley drew the second half 2-2 with goals from L Payne and Seton. Again many chances were missed throughout the half and this will serve as a wake up call for the team if they are to realise their dream of winning a league and cup double. There were poor performances throughout – from defence through to attack but the man of the match was Luke Seton. | |