Last minute goal wins Norfolk Christian league

Norwich Central Baptist Church needed to defeat UEA Wanderers on Tuesday night (May 17) at Heartsease Lane to claim their third successive Norfolk Christian Football League title.

If they drew or lost, league leaders Surrey Chapel would secure their first title for 24 years.

 

The first half saw Bishops Cup runners-up NCBC set up camp in their opponents’ half and although the Wanderers woodwork was hit twice, the UEA defence held firm and they showed why they had only lost three games all season.

 

The second half continued in the same vein with Wanderers keeper and man-of-the-match Jonathan Lockwood-Shortman pulling off a string of great saves. Although his goal was breached in the 80^th minute by Kellen Playford, the NCBC celebrations were short-lived as the goal had been disallowed for being offside.

 

At the end of 90 minutes, referee Kit Circuit announced that there was five minutes of stoppage time to be added on.

 

NCBC abandoned all kind of formation and sent everyone in all-out attack. With less than a minute to go, the ball found its way into the crowded Wanderers area and a goalmouth scramble led to a Wanderers player turning the ball into his own net. The NCBC team and supporters relief was clearly evident as they celebrated the goal. Seconds later the game was over and the title was decided.

 

Congratulations to Norwich Central Baptist Church on clinching the title and to both teams for an excellent game played in a good spirit.

 

Commiserations to Surrey Chapel who were only seconds away from securing their first league title for 24 years.