East Hockey League Division 2N Harleston Magpies II 6 Ely 0 FOR the first time this season Ely conceded several goals from open play, and were beaten in a tough, physical battle. The trip to third-placed Harleston was made harder by the fact several pla

East Hockey League

Division 2N

Harleston Magpies II 6 Ely 0

FOR the first time this season Ely conceded several goals from open play, and were beaten in a tough, physical battle.

The trip to third-placed Harleston was made harder by the fact several players were missing. Andrew Monteith made his debut and Ian Grange returned to the Ely goal.

Harleston's water-based AstroTurf pitch was a new experience to many Ely players, with the ball travelling much slower than expected.

Harleston started strongly, and Ely were defending from the off, conceding two goals within the first 15 minutes.

A physical and contentious game saw injuries to Stu Clark, captain Julian Palmer and Tommy Hugo and Ely were 3-0 down by half-time.

Ely could not rally in the second half and the hosts continued to show real quality in attack, scoring three more goals before the end.

Palmer said: "The heavy defeat was not unexpected and we battled hard, but I am surprised they are not at the top of the league.