Norfolk Men's O45s Clinch East Hockey County Championship in 2025

Published: 14 Apr 2025

After finishing runners-up in both 2023 and 2024, Norfolk Over 45s finally struck gold in 2025, clinching the East Hockey County Championship title at Southgate HC. The campaign got off to a rocky start with a narrow 1-0 defeat to a combined Cambridgeshire and Suffolk side, despite Norfolk dominating possession and wasting some gilt-edged chances. However, the team bounced back impressively, recording deserved 2-0 victories over Essex and Hertfordshire. Norwich City's Mark Moffat and Sam Markillie - who has represented both Pelicans and Dereham in recent years - each scored in both matches, helping to secure a crucial +3 goal difference. That margin proved decisive, handing Norfolk the title ahead of Cambs/Suffolk. Pulling the squad together was a big challenge this year, but the reward was more than worth it - bringing home the shield was a proud and satisfying moment for all involved. With the winning squad represented by Harleston Magpies, Pelicans, Dereham, Norwich City, North Norfolk and Norfolk Dragons.