After the freezing weather postponed the previous weeks’ visit from Upminster, Maidstone Ladies 1st XI were looking to play only their second game of 2020 with a long away trip to Norwich. Winning only one game in the previous six, Maidstone needed a strong start, and were looking for an early goal to help them control the game and come away with a much needed 3 points. Maidstone started with pace and control, pressuring Norwich in their own half. The desired result came within 10 minutes when Susie Rowe placed a reverse hit airborne towards the corner of the goal, where Emily Bush was able to deflect and volley the ball past the keeper to put the away side ahead. Shortly after Maidstone had taken the lead, Norwich were awarded a penalty corner which they converted successfully with a deflection in front of the goalkeeper, pulling the score back to 1-1. Some excellent build up play in midfield from Catherine Broadbent and a wonderful ball in from Louise Cassey found Lesley Price in the D for a one touch finish that slipped past the Norwich keeper, putting Maidstone ahead yet again. Norwich responded with a couple of chances going wide, and a goal mouth scramble, but were finally able to pull one back just before the break.

Disappointed with the equaliser so close to halftime, Maidstone were positive that they could build on the score line and went into the second half determined to add to their goal tally. Starting strong in the second half, Maidstone scored again with an excellent deflection by Claire Weddle from a long ball in from Rowe. Unaware the goal had been disallowed with the umpires deeming Maidstone not to get a touch in the D, Norwich played on whilst Maidstone celebrated. The resulting confusion and frustration from Maidstone allowed Norwich to take advantage in the following minutes, and score their third goal to put them in the lead. Maidstone kept on the pressure, but frustrations continued for the team after Rowe dribbled through the Norwich defence and hit into the corner of the goal only for it to be pulled back for a penalty corner after the umpire did not play the advantage.The away side struggled with their concentration for the remainder of the game, and despite some excellent individual performances including that of versatile Player of the Match Helena Scott, Norwich took their chances and placed another two goals past the Maidstone keeper. Still trying to get something out of the game, Maidstone pushed all their players forward, but sadly Norwich capitalised on the lack of defensive bodies and were able to finish the scoring at 6-2. A very disappointing result for the ladies team. Maidstone will be hosting Bedford at home for the next fixture, hoping to put the Norwich game behind them.