Blofield United 2, Acle United 3

Acle remain firmly in charge of the Yarmouth Road after a clinical performance against their high-riding Anglian Combination Premier Division neighbours saw them collect all three points.

The game was spoiled by the bad weather that made it difficult for the visitors to produce their usual flowing push-and-run style of football that their supporters have become accustomed to over the last few seasons.

Harry Maddisson took the accolade of man of the match for his exciting hat-trick, but there were others who ran him close for the honour.

They were mainly the back four with Peter Nobbs back to his best together with Daniel Foreman and Ricky Hodds, who gave excellent performances, and goalkeeper Scott Foreman who gave an incredible performance for the second week running to keep out the rampant hosts, as they threw everything at Acle in the latter part of the game.

Ricci Butler and Nathan Thompson both added strength to the visitors’ attack and caused Blofield constant concern every time Acle ventured into their half.

Had it not been for experienced Robert Woodcock showing all his Ridgeons League abillities, the score would have been even more in Acle’s favour.

Acle will hope that the second-half injury sustained by Ricci Butler does not prove as bad as was first thought, with some high-profile games on the horizon.

Managers Tony Ward and Martyn Sinclair were not just pleased with the victory and the three points but the way in which the side knitted together to achieve the final result.

Acle with 34 points from 18 games are fourth, headed by Cromer (43 from 18), Wroxham Reserves (35 from 21) and Mattishall (35 from 18). The result dented defending champions Blofield’s hopes of another title, leaving them eighth with 28 from 15 matches.

Tomorrow, Acle entertain Kirkley & Pakefield Reserves.