Report: 1st XI Men vs Norwich Dragons 1 – January 27, 2024

Spalding 1s 7 – 0 Norwich Dragons 1s 

 

On a mild January afternoon, Spalding were buoyant following 2 consecutive wins and approached the game looking to continue this run with a full squad of 16.

The first half saw both teams press with little success until the 23rd minute when Spalding won a penalty corner which was duly dispatched into the top right by Stuart Cunnington.   Norwich Dragons came back fighting with long overhead balls which were safely dealt with by the back line of Howitt, Morris, Callow and Rowbottom, however the half ended with little action and a flat feeling.

 

A rousing half time talk reinvigorated the squad and everyone came out with renewed intensity to take command of the game and secure the 3 points on offer. It took only 4 minutes for a goal to come from a pass by Harry Naylor to find Dan Azzopardi who slotted the ball home. With more confidence the team kept the intensity going and 8 minutes later Steve Rogers scored from a Stu Cunnington pass, which was followed by another goal by Azzopardi. A penalty corner was awarded 5 minutes later and Cunningham dispatching it to make it 5:0. Constant pressure from Spalding soon brought another goal 2 minutes later with Jacob Baker getting on the score sheet and with some silky smooth passing the score went to 7 with Rogers finishing it off and taking his tally to 2.

Spalding kept the positive spirit through to the end and showed control and quality of play to deliver the win, a great team performance. MOM Jacob Baker.