Norwich City 2s 2 – 1 Spalding 1s
Spalding travelled to Norwich looking to take 3 valuable points their performances have merited in recent weeks. The squad were tested to the limit with the late withdrawal of 3 members. Spalding started the game slowly, having not played for 2 weeks and lost out on a number of 50/50s and getting use to the bouncy pitch. Norwich capitalised on this start and broke away fast on the counter which saw them through on goal with the striker finishing smartly into the bottom corner. Spalding regrouped and showed their team spirit and togetherness by rallying several passages of play which lead to numerous chances but found an inspired Norwich keeper in goal. Late in the first half Norwich had a chance to double their lead but Oscar Haunch superbly kept the score at 1-0.
Spalding continued to get a foot hold on the game in the second half and with players playing in a variety of positions, the team managed to create multiple penalty corners. Stu Cunnington expertly fount debut boy Matt Hulme at the back post from a PC which levelled the score at 1-1.
With tiring legs in the squad, Norwich came back at Spalding and won a penalty corner of their own. An unfortunate deflection off a defenders stick wrong footed Haunch in goal and the striker had a tap in at the back post to make it 2-1.
Spalding continued to push to equalise but once again thwarted from the Keeper. Gaps started to appear in the defence and City won a penalty stroke. Oscar superbly saved down low to keep the score line the same. Spalding won a penalty corner on the final whistle and Cunnington was denied by the keeper and some resolute defending.
MoM – Will Steed
DoD – Will Baker