As mentioned many times there are no easy games in this division and Horsham again proved to be very stubborn opponents with the Trawlerboys relying on tow Joe Francis penalties to clinch the victory.

Horsham pulled a goal back in the final minute but there attempts to force a late leveller ended with an over zealous challenge on Andy Reynolds which resulted in them being reduced to 9 men.

Lowestoft made 8 changes to the starting line up for the visit of Kirkley & Pakefield in the Suffolk Premier Cup quarter final on Tuesday evening. Former Norwich City player Robert Eagle has been released by Grimsby Town and signed non contract forms for the Town on Monday and was given his debut on Tuesday. Eagle, second highest scorer for Grimsby last season, made an instant impact by opening the scoring in the first minute.

16 year old Harvey Hodd, having sat patiently on the bench for the previous 5 games, was also given his debut in midfield and showed the potential that had impressed the management team in training. His contribution though ended prematurely as a knock to the head saw him substituted after an hour.

The game itself saw the Trawlerboys win by two clear goals – one in the first minute and one in the last with little to get excited over in between.

There is a free Saturday for the Blues this week with scheduled opponents East Thurrock United in F A Trophy action. Tuesday evening Canvey Island are the visitors to the Meadow in the quarter finals of the Alan Boon Cup, kick off 7.45pm.

The Youth team returned to action after a month without a game with a 2-2 draw away to Leiston in the Eastern Junior Cup. Jack Withington and Shane Smith scored the goals. Next Thursday they are away to Cromer Town in the Ridgeons Youth League.

Sian Manthorpe led the way for the Ladies with a hattrick in an 8-0 victory over Witnesham Wasps last Sunday. Clieo Stephenson (2), Nikki Wigg, Natasha Thomas and Mel Davies were the other scorers. This Sunday the girls are away to Bacton United in the Suffolk Women’s Cup.

Terry Lynes