League leaders win local Derby

Thetford Town 1 Swaffham Town 0

A depleted Swaffham squad faired admirably against the leagues leaders and promotion contenders, Thetford. In addition to injury to Alex Vincent, key defensive players unavailable, Nathan Cross, Dwayne and Daren Hockton. Nethertheless, a good performance from a young turnout, ensured entertainment for the spectating onlookers. Good opening play at both ends of the field, Will O'Brien and Toby Hilliard for Swaffham, Steven Harley looking a threat for Thetford, keeper Dean Mayes having to force a whipped-in free kick over the bar. Harley seeing red though, for a second yellow card offence in the first 25 minutes! Joe Jackson and Robbie Howling pushing the Thetford defence in the 33rd minute, Jackson's run knocked back to Howling, his effort taken well by the Thetford keeper. Just on the break, Howling again involved with O'Brien and Hilliard, the later volleying narrowly wide.

Jackson unlucky two minutes into the second half, latching onto a Jack Redhead through-ball, to hit the side netting. The only goal of the game came in the 48th minute, a free kick from the left hand edge of the Swaffham box, the shot missed by two defenders, Mayes unsighted, the Thetford number 10 punishing Swaffham for probably his easiest of the season. Further opportunities for Redhead, O'Brien and Hilliard, unable to hit the target. Two great stops by Mayes keeping the tie close. With five minutes to go, Jackson latched onto a great ball from Hilliard, his shot passing just over, the luck not with Swaffham on the day, all season Jackson has converted 9 out of 10 similar chances!

Next Saturday, the Pedlars host Whitton United at Shoemakers Lane, another tough battle against top of the table opposition, kick off 3pm. Easter Monday they travel to local rivals Fakenham Town, the two Clubs equal on points, just goal difference separating them. Kick off is 11am, come on and support the Pedlars in what has all the ingredients for a spectacular encounter.

This Friday, 6 April, the 'A' Team play Walsingham under lights in the Fen Regis Invitation Shield, kick off 7.30pm. Saturday the Reserves travel to Blofield United Reserves in their penultimate league match for this season, kick off 2.30pm.