Ramgarhia 0, Dereham Mens 1st XI 1

HOCKEY: Dereham took the spoils in a closely-fought encounter at the top of Premier B, as Ed Turner scored his first goal for Dereham's first team.

The visitors welcomed back captain Tom Vaughan following the birth of his son, and they were able to celebrate with a well-deserved clean sheet.

The game was a close encounter, and chances were limited.

Ramgarhia were a very skilful side, and the Dereham defence had to be on top form to ensure they weren't drawn into silly fouls.

Dereham's defence were staunch throughout, with Richard Timm, Mark Hunter, Ashley Woodyatt and Matt Stainthorpe in outstanding form.

The majority of attacks from the home side were quashed before they had a chance to enter the D.

They were ably assisted by Andy Lawrence in the middle of the pitch, who worked tirelessly in both attack and defence.

Dereham created chances with the pace of the Timm, brother Mark and Michael on the left and right of midfield causing problems.

Will Edwards made a nuisance of himself leading front line, and combined with Andy Howarth to create Dereham's best opportunity of the first half, only for Howarth to shoot just wide.

The second half was just as tight, and once again opportunities were few and far between. The longer the game went on, the shorter the coache's nails became.

Dereham eventually broke the deadlock with 15 minutes to go.

Sam Plater found Turner on the right, who jinked past a couple of players before blasting a shot low and hard from the top of the D, giving the keeper no chance.

Ramgarhia were then reduced to 10 men following a rash challenge from their centre forward, but this did little to stem the attacking onslaught.

It made for an exciting final 10 minutes as they pushed forward searching for an equaliser.

Gaps appeared at the back allowing Dereham to counter. But neither team were able to find the back of the net.

With the last touch of the game, Ramgarhia were awarded a penalty corner.

Vaughan was able to save the deflected shot, and Mark Timm cleared to ensure that Dereham left with the three points.