NCFL masthead 2023

HeighamParkRangersNationalChri
Rangers reach National Christian Trophy quarters

Norfolk Christian Football League leaders, Heigham Park Rangers, made it to the quarter-finals of the prestigious National Christian Trophy knock-out competition with a convincing 8-3 win over Zim Stevenage on Saturday (January 29).

On a windy morning in Norwich, Heigham Park Rangers and Zim Stevenage came head-to-head in the last 16 of the Trophy. Battling the conditions as well as each other, the first half saw Heigham go into the break 3-2 to the good. Early in the second half Zim soon equalised though, through a penalty which sent Smith in the Heigham goal the wrong way. Heigham responded instantly, re-taking the lead from a well-worked throw in. From there they didn’t look back, grabbing four more goals to run out 8-3 winners and secure a place in the quarter finals of the National Christian Trophy.
 
Rangers are also doing well in the NCFL, sitting top of the league, unbeaten and with just a handful of games to go.
 
League chairman, Jim Green said: “The adult league is entering its final phase of the league season. It is very pleasing to note that no teams are stranded pointless at the bottom, as all teams have shown themselves capable of beating others.
 
“Two teams which have struggled in recent seasons have been turning things around, with Silver Road winning their last two and Gateway Vineyard winning their last four after losing the first six.   It is also great to have so many well-contested matches, many decided by the odd goal.
 
“Last year Heigham Park Rangers started as the team to beat, before falling away to leave St John’s and Eaton Eagles to contest the title.  This year Rangers have returned convincingly to the top, and they seem the team to beat with five games left.
 
“This has been unquestionably a Covid-hit season, as, in line with other leagues, we have had more than usual the number of postponements, and it has been encouraging to see the  understanding shown between teams. We are grateful for all the work that has gone in to enabling our teams and spectators to enjoy fresh air and football.
 
“At the start of the season the committee said we would see how the league season goes before deciding on cups, and this decision will be made soon.”
 
Pictured above and below, Heigham Park Rangers (in green) take on Zim Stevenage in the National Christian Trophy.

HeighamParkRangersNationalChri

 

Keith Morris, 30/01/2022

Published: 30/01/2022
Keith Morris

6010 views