Holt United suffered a fourth successive defeat in Division One of the Anglian Combination on Saturday when they were beaten 4-0 at high-flying Norwich CEYMS.

The Owls gave a good account of themselves in the early stages and never let their head drop when the going got tough later on, but they could have few complaints about the final scoreline.

Holt were missing Gavin Neale and Dan Fuller and set up to stay organised and frustrate the hosts. And the ploy was working until midway through the first half when goalkeeper Liam Craig came off his line and scuffed a clearance and a CEYMS striker took full advantage of the error.

The second goal came shortly afterwards from a free-kick following a needless foul outside the box. The secomd half was much of the same with Holt conceding an early goal and another later on whilst they were chasing the match. The visitors look a little more positive going forward but were unable to get on the scoresheet.

The early mistake by Craig was unfortunate but he is still a young keeeper who is learning his trade. His performances in the Hellesdon, Wells, and Hindringham matches were imprortant for the team and he had a great match against Watton. He made some great saves and would have had a clean sheet if the team hadn't gone down to nine men.

On Saturday Holt have another tough match at home to Stalham. The Owls may be without Sam Morgan and Kevin Moore if their suspensions come through. Matt Warnes will certainly be unavailable but Gavin Neale and Dan Fuller will be returning.

Stalham will be in good heart for the trip to Holt after a 5-0 home win over Aylsham last Saturday. The visitors have faltered recently after a bright start following a second successive promotion and are now without a win in four matches. Aylsham will be looking to put that right when they entertain Horsford on Saturday.

Sheringham are away to Beccles.