MATCH REPORT | Dulwich Hamlet vs Norwich City

A late goal by Norwich City’s Ellie Smith sealed the fate for the Hamlet in front of a huge 814 strong crowd in the Champion Hill Summer sunshine.

Hamlet looked lively during the first 20 minutes and Norwich appeared to be a bit perturbed by the size of the crowd as Norwich City Manager Andy Cook confirmed in a post match interview.

The Hamlet took advantage of this and Lily Price had a 10th minute, 30 yard crack at the goal and hit the post. Shortly afterwards Dulwich broke the deadlock after City keeper, Sarah Quadrill failed to clear the ball which was pounced on by Lucy Monkman who slotted it home.

City immediately hit back with a goal as a free-kick into the area found Shannon Shaw, who headed in from the goal mouth. An hour into the game City took the lead after a clumsy tackle on Ellie Smith saw them awarded a penalty which was coolly taken by Hope Strauss and went past Dulwich keeper, Saskia Reeves Priestly.

City managed to shake things up by introducing new signings Issy Moore and Lara Densley to the pitch and shortly afterwards they had added another goal after Smith pounced onto a dangerous ball in the area and put it past Reeves Priestley. 3-1. Duwlch had not given up on their spirited performance and Asia Harbour-Brown scored in the 85th minute which resulted in a 3-2 finish as the final whisltle blew.

The first game of the season and their first game in the Women’s National League was a huge test for the Dulwich Women and they more than held their own on the day. We are hoping the next time we see Norwich will be at Carrow Road!