Cromer claim derby honours

Cromer Town 2, Wroxham Reserves 1

Defending Anglian Combination champions Wroxham Reserves met defeat at Cabbell Park where Cromer made a few changes in both personnel and positions, writes Richard Cox.

The Crabs wasted no time in getting on the attack. Matthew Eves crossed to Darren Terrington, who volleyed over.

The early pressure paid off as Cromer took the lead minutes later. Tom Davies played the ball over the top to Eves who ran past two defenders before being brought down by Graham Challen. David Harwood sent the keeper the wrong way from the spot.

A few moments later Wroxham got a fortunate equaliser against the run of play when Harley's cross from the right was headed into his own goal by Paul Bradshaw.

Despite the set-back Cromer continued to dominate. Terrington headed just wide from a Tom Davies cross. John Carrier then turned neatly on the edge of the box and was only denied by a smart save from Phil Smith. The rebound went to David Hinton, but he was off target with his shot. Terrington then flicked the ball onto Ryan Honeyman whose first-time left-foot effort came back off a post. Carrier's cross then hit the woodwork.

After the half-time break the Crabs remained in control. Terrington saw his header palmed off the line by Smith. Then Eves used his pace to get down the wing being laying back to Carrier. He squared the ball to James Marsh whose shot was deflected onto a post.

Cromer finally got the second goal they deserved on 76 minutes. Tom Davies picked out Terrington with his low cross and the Cromer man fired the ball into the roof of the net.

The Crabs had one final effort before the final whistle, but Smith again saved to keep out Hunton's shot.

A good all-round performance from Cromer who may have scored more on another day - but it's another three points in the bag.

The reserves lost 4-2 away at Thorpe Village. Simon Robinson and Aaron Hyland got the goals.