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Norwich church team progress in national cup 

NCBCMannaNorwich Central Baptist Church progressed to the Quarter Final stage of the National Christian Cup on Saturday February 21, but were severely tested by a strong Manna Sports team.
 



NCBC took the lead against their Lewisham-based opponents midway through the first half, but the visitors would have been lamenting the fortunate nature of the opening goal. Current top goalscorer Ben Jervis struck a free kick with power, only for the ball to nestle in the bottom left corner via a wicked deflection off the Manna wall, giving the wrong-footed keeper no chance.

Manna created several openings for themselves throughout the half, but were denied several times by good saves from NCBC goalkeeper Adam Hubbard, as well as seeing a ferocious effort crash against the angle of the crossbar.

With the first half drawing to a close, NCBC doubled their lead. Ewan Hall was the provider, swinging in a cross after great work down the left, finding the head of Daniel Jervis who glanced the ball home.

NCBC extended their lead to 3-0 on the hour mark, again finding the back of the net by aid of a deflection. Ed Ward teed up Matthew Seager, who saw his effort ricochet off a defender and beat the diving keeper.

NCBCManna2Manna continued to threaten, and after several other spurned opportunities they finally did get themselves on the scoresheet, forcing the ball home from a late corner. They almost reduced the arrears even further moments later, but a powerful shot across goal from the Manna striker was palmed away to safety by Hubbard, as the match concluded with the score at 3-1.

Full credit must go to Manna Sports for their performance and attitude, both during and after the game. NCBC wish them well for the rest of their season in the Bromley & Croydon Christian League. Up next for Norwich Central is a Quarter Final tie away at opposition from either Liverpool or Durham.

NCBC line-up: Adam Hubbard; Mark Waters, Kellen Playford, Peter Morgan, Ewan Hall; Adam Jervis, Chris Morgan; Ben Jervis, Matthew Seager, Daniel Jervis, Ed Ward. Subs used: Simon Jervis, Kevin Finch, Paul Larman.

Photos by Mhairi Brown

 


Published: 23/02/2015


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