Two late goals from a strong Norwich City side gave the Premiership newcomers a victory at New Lodge but were made to work all the way by the Blues.

Craig Edwards was once again without key players Chris Wild, Jerome Sobers, James Hawes and Sam Berry as injuries continued to hamper his pre-season plans. As expected from the start, Norwich dominated possession and they had an early chance when Simeon Jackson shot wide when well placed. As the game wore on the Blues became increasingly more confident and were able to match their top flight opponents. Carl Patten drew a sharp save from Declan Rudd whilst Jay May's whipped cross was agonisingly close to Harrison Chattings head. The Canaries drew first blood in the 38th minute when Simeon Jackson sidefooted home from close range after a lucky ricochet fell invitingly for the Canadian International. Just four minutes later tho, Jay May equalised with a fine finish after he beat his man in the penalty area. HT 1-1

The Blues took to the field with a completely different line-up for the second half with Norwich keeping theirs unchanged. Rhys Madden made a fine save from Ian Dawkins as Norwich stepped up the pressure. At the other end Paul Semakula forced a save from Declan Rudd with a 22 yard thunderbolt. Tony Martin then narrowly missed latching onto a Billy Radley thru ball which caused confusion between the Canaries keeper and defender. With 10 minutes remaining, Norwich were gifted the lead when Madden's attempt at a punched clearance fell kindly to Newman Carney who slotted home. In the last minute a harshly awarded penalty allowed Aaron Wilbraham to wrap the victory up.

Next up: Home v Dover Athletic - Saturday 6th August (3PM)