Cup exit for Thorpe after battle

Thorpe United Ladies 0, Norwich City Ladies Reserves 1

This Sunday's match for Thorpe United Ladies was against Norwich City Ladies Reserves at Acle in the League Cup.

Starting for Thorpe was Kirsty in goal Kerry, Millie, Jemma, Judith in defence with Charlotte, Alice F, Lauren, Alice L in midfield and forwards Rebecca and Bex.

The game started in the worst possible way with the defence gifting the opposition a goal within the first five minutes.

Once Thorpe had regained their composure and the control of the midfield, chances started to be created for Bexs and Rebecca up front.

Quick thinking and smart choices from Charlotte and Alice gave Bexs had some good chances and forced some good saves from the Norwich goalkeeper.

With Norwich being strong and determined, it took some fortitude throughout the team to withstand the pressure being exerted by the home team but strong tackling from Jemma and Millie in central defence kept Norwich at bay.

At the end of the first half the score remained 1-0 to Norwich City Ladies Reserves.

After words from the coaching duo at half time, Thorpe came out in a purposeful manner, taking the game to their hosts.

With chances being few and far between, the importance of good finishing, or even a slice of good fortune, could possibly decide the outcome of the match.

Shots from Charlotte, Lauren and Bexs while dead-ball situations from Rebecca, brought out the best from the Norwich keeper with several spectacular saves to deny Thorpe a well-deserved equalizer.

At the other end, Kirsty made a superb save from a header that looked as if it was soaring into the top corner to stop Thorpe from going further behind.

With the game dynamics altered and Thorpe constantly on the front foot, it took unwavering resistance from the Norwich rearguard to prevent the match going into extra time.

Player of the match: Jemma for her good work defence.

Next week's match is at home against Taverham.