Mens 1 vs Norwich City 2

St Ives made the long trip to Norwich to face league leaders Norwich City 2s for a 4pm push back under the lights. This late start was due to a National League match before which led to a Super Saturday billing and the contest certainly lived up to the hype.

Looking to build on their recent run of form, Ives were disappointed to go 2-0 down in the first 10 minutes from a penalty corner straight strike and then a long ball open play goal. Some minor adjustments to the press brought Ives roaring back into the match and they grabbed a goal back after Alec Bryden was fastest to react to a penalty corner save with a smart finish. Another steal from the midfield press left Adam Stefanelli-Wilson one-on-one with a defender who he easily beat before outrageously lobbing the keeper from the edge of the 'D' - certainly a worthy goal to silence the home crowd supporters.

At half time, the message was to build on the previous 20 minutes and continue to take the game to Norwich. Ives pressured Norwich into mistakes, seeing more possession and territory. Swift, accurate passing from David Haslegrave opened up the Norwich midfield allowing Alec Bryden to fire in a cross for George McCarter to deflect high into the net. Norwich equalised through an identical penalty corner finish to leave a grandstand final 15 minutes. It was Ives that sized after hard work up front from Rory Mooney and James Harris opened up the space for Ashley Welland to smash home a winner! Ives held out for the final 10 minutes despite Norwich throwing men forward, including taking off their keeper for 11 outfield. Ben Hildrey and David McCarter were calm in possession as the clock ran out and with the final whistle, St Ives inflicted Norwich's first loss of the season.

The whole squad were excellent with special mention to the midfield who worked tirelessly all match. Andy Smith, Alex Grange, Alec Bryden and Ash Welland all making significant contributions both on and off the ball to help secure the 3 points.

Man of the match went to George McCarter in his first match for the 1s this season.