Magpies mark return with stunning four-goal blast

Harleston Magpies returned to action with a swagger after a two-month break as they beat bottom club Maidstone 4-1.

After some poor results before the Christmas break, Magpies were keen to get their season back on track and they attacked from the outset.

The Maidstone defence was blown away in the opening 17 minutes as Magpies raced into a four-goal lead.

Two goals from Angie Wheelhouse in the first seven minutes set the tone for the opening spell and it was not long before Anna Toulson, playing in a central role, made it 3-0 after 12 minutes.

Artemis Clark was proving too much for the Maidstone defence and she deserved her goal on 17 minutes to give Magpies a 4-0 lead, which was nothing less than their forward display deserved.

The Magpies midfield was also in total control ,with the experienced Frances Sumner and Debbie McAllen leading the way, well supported by Ellie Catchpole at right midfield. She was making her debut after moving from Bury, while 16-year-old Bryony Lund made her first league start at left midfield. Charlotte Harrison was absent with a broken finger.

Cherry Seaborn came off the bench and was only denied a goal by a diving stick save from the goalkeeper and then went close with another chance.

Maidstone recovered their composure at half-time and showed signs of the team Magpies had found so difficult to break down at the beginning of the season. Magpies never regained the forward movement that had been so devastating in the first half and Maidstone pulled one back after 59 minutes when Rachel Thompson picked up a half cleared penalty corner to give them a consolation goal.

This performance will give Magpies confidence after a number of changes had been made to the side, but they will be truly tested this weekend when they play league leaders Reading away.