Sheringham 1, Thetford 3WHILE other games were called off Sheringham's Norfolk Senior Cup fourth round tie was deemed playable, testimony to a pitch often criticised that frequently sees games played where others are cancelled.

Sheringham 1, Thetford 3

WHILE other games were called off Sheringham's Norfolk Senior Cup fourth round tie was deemed playable, testimony to a pitch often criticised that frequently sees games played where others are cancelled. But there will be no repeat of last season's Carrow Road final appearance for the Shannocks.

The game started in mild conditions but ended in an blizzard, writes Shannock Bill.

Ridgeons Division One side Thetford Town arrived at Weybourne Road as favourites, but the Shannocks were keen to progress in a cup that has seen some success over the past two seasons.

Thetford were missing Shannock favourite Danny Tanti, out injured, and had Paul Timm and Andy Jackson missing. Andy Gleave returned after a long absence with Luke Frost between the sticks.

Sheringham started the brighter of the two teams albeit against a blustery wind and had several chances, notably through Holmes and Fox, but Bilham saved on both occasions.

Thetford opened their account on 18 minutes when a through ball deceived both skipper Jordan and Frost, and Mann made sure with a tap-in.

The Shannocks were carving a static Thetford defence apart but the final finish eluded a frustrating forward line. Bilham again came to the rescue. A good move saw King advance on goal one-on-one but the official blew for a free-kick and lectured the Thetford man.

The final chance came when it looked like Fox's shot had crossed the line, but the officials waved play on.

At 1-0 down the Shannocks came out second half looking to continue the pressure, and with the wind encamped in Thetford's half for the first 20 minutes. Chance after chance went begging with Bilham and defenders clearing, but on the 57th minute a Carver corner produced a good header from Jordan which crept into the top corner.

With Sheringham tails up the pressure continued as worsening weather made it extremely hard for both sets of players.

Thetford in the last 10 minutes created their first real chances of the half and Frost made a point-blank save from Mann. Extra-time began in closing darkness.

Both sides had chances but in the second period Thetford created the opportunity when a shot was spilled by Frost, and Mann made sure from the rebound. Sheringham went all out and carved out an opening, but King's shot was saved by Bilham.

In near darkness, with Sheringham pushing up Jordan, it left a gap at the back for Thetford to score their third.

Sheringham can be proud and perhaps played the better football and created more chances, but Thetford's Bilham was man-of-the-match.

A serious challenge for the Sterry Cup has been Sheringham's aim, so maybe this loss could be to their league advantage.

After beating Dereham in the semi's last year the Shannocks lost their next six league games, dashing hopes of league honours. After the Carrow Road final they didn't lose a match in their final six games without conceding a goal. They are currently second in the table.

But it was perhaps a bit to early for the exit considering the success on reaching the semis and the final over the past two seasons.