Wymondham Tn 2, Mattishall 1

Mattishall made a poor start to the year as they slipped to defeat at local rivals Wymondham on Saturday in the Anglian Combination Premier Division.

The visitors started the brighter and went straight onto the offensive putting the home defence under severe pressure, but with no recognised striker they failed to turn their superiority into goals.

After 20 minutes, a free-kick from the home team found a player on the right making a darting run to the byline and putting a first time cross in which saw a simple tap-in for the home forward to make it 1-0 to Wymondham.

The rest of the first half saw very little goalmouth action for both teams.

The lack of excitement continued in the second period. Mattishall were awarded two free-kicks in quick succession just outside the home penalty area but both were cleared confidently by the home defence.

After 65 minutes, Mattishall were awarded another potentially dangerous free-kick just outside the area, but this was easily dealt with and Wymondham broke quickly to score their second goal, another simple tap-in from a right wing cross.

Within two minutes Mattishall's best move saw them score their goal. A good run and cross from Stephan Gilding on the left found Will Stenner who hit the ball home.

Mattishall used two of their substitutes, Benny McCann on for George Cagen and Kyle Coxen on for Chris Gibbons.

Mattishall had their tails up for the next ten minutes with the home team defending stoutly.

In the last ten minutes, the home team resorted to time-wasting tactics, which proved effective if not particularly enjoyable to watch.

Mattishall are at home this weekend against Loddon, kick-off 2pm. The reserves are away to Redgrave Rangers in Division Four, 2pm.

n The club would like to thank Specsavers for their sponsorship of the new kit and tracksuits.

n Mattishall FC would like to offer their condolences to the Forder family following the death of Brian (Herman) Lanchester.

Brian was a former Mattishall player, and later managed both the first team and reserves, together with the late Roger (Ribbo) Newstead. Brian will be fondly remembered by many older players and officials of the club.