Starting Line-up: Marcus Mehew, Kian Wilson, Elliott Young, Billy Jordan, Reagan King, Cameron Young, Emille Dozzell, Munashe Chirimuuta, Dion Dozzell, Ashdon Fowler, Ollie Griggs
Bench: Matt Mullis, Joe McNeil, Warren Buckman, MacKenzie Travis, Jonathon Shannon

The U23s finished 2023 with a visit to near neighbours and local rivals, Needham Market U23. Neil was missing probably five of his first choices. Ethan Oldman, Charlie Atkin, Ben Batho who has only recently returned from injury was in the starting line up for the 1st team while captain, Mitchel Jackson was on the 1st team bench. Josh Yaxley was missing due to serving his ban having been sent off in the home win against Holbeach United.

In a reasonably level opening the better chances probably fell to the hosts who used their flanks well and several crosses offered the opportunity for an attacking touch to open the scoring. From the visitor’s point of view none were forthcoming. Marcus Mehew in the away goal was forced into making two saves low to his left from long range efforts. The opening goal shortly after the half hour mark came from a long clearance which found its way to DION DOZZELL on the right of the home side’s penalty area. With quick feet he cut into the box before firing a right foot shot into the far corner past the former Blue’s goalkeeper, Harry Podd.

Half Time: Needham Market U23 0 – 1 Leiston U23

The second half started well for the host with them having far more possession but without causing the visitor’s defence too much trouble. It was therefore unfortunate when a defensive clearance ricocheted off a team mate straight to the feet of a home attacker who levelled the scores. With about a quarter of the game remaining the home side continued to press for a winner which they achieved with about 10 minutes remaining. It seemed as if the Leiston players switched off momentarily allowing a free run at goal and a low shot to Marcus’ left hand side. The thought of a second successive 2-1 defeat seemed to stir the visitors into action as in the closing moments of the game they forced a number of corners but never a real clear cut chance.

Full Time: Needham Market U23 2 – 1 Leiston U23

The defeat meant that the teams swap places in the league table with the Blues dropping into the third of the bottom three relegation places. Next Saturday sees a return to the Watson & Hillhouse Victory Road Stadium to host Whittlesey Athletic who currently lie six places higher in the table. With an encouraging victory over 5th placed Holbeach United in their last home game and two narrow away defeats the team can look forward to a positive performance and result.