Kirkley & Pakefield side Vs Swaffham Town FC

The First team travelled to 'Fortress Walmer' Wednesday evening to battle with a very capable Kirkley & Pakefield side. The Royals started strongly but the Swaffham defence held strong and the best opportunities fell to the visitors, Jack Defty unable to bundle a ball into the net and a header saved on the line. The home side took the lead in the 32nd minute, a penalty from a hand ball. Keeper Scott Cruickshank close but unable to deflect the shot. Kirkley made it two with five minutes of the half left, a rocket from distance, Cruickshank powerless to prevent it thumping the top right hand side of the net.

A brighter start for the Pedlars second half and a glimmer of hope when Nick Castellan pulled one back in the 61st minute, Defty crossing for Castellan to knock past the keeper. Twelve minutes later, the Pedlars drew level, Ashley Keegan playing Alex Vincent through, Vincent rounding the keeper and converting. It appeared that the game had been saved until Kirkleys second rocket of the night ! A drive from 30 yards, Cruickshank at full stretch and getting a hand to it, but not enough to stop the ball going in. Kirkley won't score another two like that this season !

To the shock of the home supporters, Swaffham again levelled the scores with two minutes of normal time to go. Cruickshank with a goal kick, played on by Danny Tindall for Vincent to beat the left back, run for goal and slot his shot past the keeper, silencing 'Fortress Walmer' with exception of the faithful Pedlars travelling supporters who erupted ! The hard work paid benefits and a great point for the Pedlars. Next weekend they host Ipswich Wanderers, always an entertaining fixture, kick off 3pm. The following Tuesday, Great Yarmouth Town visit Shoemakers Lane.

Keeping the flag flying on Wednesday, the Under 18's were also in action, away to Aylsham. A convincing six nil victory, goals from Callum Robinson, Aaron Smith and a brace for both Sam Carter and Jack Prentice. A good win to keep their league form perfect. This Thursday they host Easton & Otley College, kick off 7.45pm.

The Reserves started their 2016/17 campaign away to Redgate Rangers on Saturday. Although having the best of the play, the wind not helping either side, the Pedlars struggled to punish in front of goal. redgate took their limited opportunities well and made the most to take a four nil victory. Next Saturday the Reserves are again on the north Norfolk coast, Sheringham Reserves the opposition.