Magpies still learning on the job going into Premier Division derby

Heacham boss David Griggs says his players are still learning on the job going into tonight’s Thurlow Nunn Premier Division derby at Fakenham Town.

It has been a tough start to life in the top flight for the Magpies, who are still adjusting to the demands and the extra quality of the Premier Division after winning eight successive promotions.

Griggs admitted before the season that this campaign would be “a massive learning curve” for his players, but the Magpies chief was encouraged by elements of his side’s performance during the 1-0 home defeat to Thetford Town on Saturday.

“We had to learn fast after the Dereham, especially our game management,” said Griggs.

“We set up differently, which was completely new to us, but the lads took the information on board well and went out against a very good Thetford team and pushed them all the way.

“We could have got a point as we had a few good chances in the second half when we pushed for a goal but I can’t fault the squad. We are learning on the job.

“At Fakenham, we are expecting another 100 miles-per-hour match but we go into the game confident we can gain a point or three.”

After tonight’s league encounter against the Ghosts, it will be another historic day for Heacham on Saturday when they play their first-ever game in the FA Vase.

They host Kirkley and Pakefield at the Heacham Sports Field with Griggs saying: “We look forward to another history-making day for the club as we play in our first FA Vase match.

“It’s a game where the lads will want to put right the wrongs from the home league fixture against Kirkley (2-1 loss).”