Despite missing a couple of key players and with injuries forcing Freddie P and Jack T to switch from their usual roles of main striker and goalkeeper, respectively Hellesdon raced into an early 2-0 lead. Cody E finishing off a dangerous Archie W corner before Zaki M slotted home from a Jack T cross. Hellesdon then had chances to kill the game off before half time but were unable to do so and it was actually Downham Market who finished the first half on the front foot.

This pressure continued in the second half and Hellesdon were eventually made to pay for not capitalising on earlier opportunities as Downham Market got back on level terms with around 20 minutes left. The game then became quite tense with both sides looking to force a winner. Moving into the last 10 minutes, Hellesdon were looking the more likely team to score the next goal but couldn’t quite find the composure in the final third. However, with the prospect of extra time and possible penalties looming, Cam B capped a superb individual second half performance to strike the winner from just outside the box.

Although Hellesdon were not at their best, the boys deserve great credit for the character they showed to lift themselves towards the end and help seal the 3-2 win.

Scorers: Cody E, Zaki M and Cam B

Player of the Match: Cam B