Dereham 1 Harleston 2

Dereham 1 Harleston 2

HARLESTON travelled to local rivals Dereham with returning striker Neil Toulson bolstering their squad. Dereham set their stall out early playing with 11 men behind the ball and it was clear they would be happy with a point from the game.

Harleston played most of their hockey in the opposition half trying to break down the Dereham side. With so many players behind the ball it was hard for Harleston to create chances in a packed area. Harleston flashed a couple of balls across goal but the vital last touch was lacking.

Andy Hipwell had the best chances of the first half but on both occasions the Dereham keeper made two outstanding saves. On Dereham's first venture into Harleston's area they managed to sneak a goal after a lapse in concentration between Harleston defenders. Dereham held onto this lead until half time.

In the second half Harelston came out with real intent pushing Dereham even further back, Harleston managed to build pressure by winning a series of short corners. Harleston found the break through they were looking for when at a short corner Tristan Baynes slipped the ball to Neil Toulson to slot home on his return. Dereham were then reduced to 10 men which allowed Harleston to build more pressure.

Harleston were denied a clear-cut penalty when a Dereham defender kicked the ball off the goal line. Colin Wheelhouse was able to cut through the Dereham defence with ease as they started to tire. With five minutes left Harleston got the bit of good fortune they needed when they were awarded a penalty stroke. Tristan Baynes held his nerve to slot calmly home and give Harleston the lead they needed. Harleston were able to close out the game by retaining possession of the ball and take the three vital points to keep them in the title chase.

Next week Harleston travel to Chelmsford in another tough match.