Rene Kendall RIDGEONS LEAGUE: THE Magpies got their first league points on the board when they walloped Whitton last Saturday before producing an outstanding performance to net five against Ely at Aldiss Park on Tuesday night.

Rene Kendall

THE Magpies got their first league points on the board when they walloped Whitton last Saturday before producing an outstanding performance to net five against Ely at Aldiss Park on Tuesday night.

At Whitton Nicky Howell headed us into the lead before Simon Mowbray increased our advantage shortly before half time. After dominating proceedings Nicky Howell made it three in the 73rd minute, with Craig Terrington completing the scoring with a trademark left foot thunderbolt two minutes from time.

Dereham took Ely apart with a fine attacking display. Danny Beaumont opened the scoring in the 28th minute before Simon Mowbray coolly finished to net his fourth goal in successive games. Ely pulled a goal back on the hour through Lee Dixon but the Magpies immediately replied through Craig Terrington.

Beaumont scored Dereham's fourth with a stunning 20-yard drive and Adam Smith registered the nap hand following a flowing move. Ely skipper Simon Warren headed home a second for his side who pressed to make further inroads but this was to be to no avail as Paul Cousins and Dean Miller stood firm at the centre of the Magpies' defence.

Matty Henman said: “In both matches we bounced back well following sluggish starts. The players showed great commitment. Their footballing ability is never in question but you have to earn the right to play.”

After today's FA Cup clash against Stamford, with a home tie against either Sleaford or Walsham-le-Willows awaiting the winners, we visit Trafford Park on Tuesday night to face Wroxham (ko 7.45pm) before newly promoted Tiptree visit Aldiss Park next Saturday (3pm).

The club received some bad news when first team coach Jason Fuller decided to leave. Jason is widely respected within the club and was an influential coach. He nurtured several of the youth team through to first team level. After Rob Taylor's departure, he and Adam Gusterson steadied the ship and kept things running smoothly before Matty Henman's arrival. Thanks to Jason for his excellent work.

Our reserve side made their debut in the Ridgeons Reserve North Division last Saturday and started with a 3-1 win against Whitton. Scott Woodgate, Jason Hunt and Troy Bond scored the goals. The youth side lost 3-1 at home to Walsham on Wednesday. After Joel Brien had opened the scoring in the 27th minute, the visitors hit back with three goals. Tickets are still available for the Emma Hall Band who will be performing at the club on Friday, September 12. Ring 01362 690460 for details.