Here you can find all recent first team match reports

3 February, 2007

Long Melford 3, Gorleston 2

Hit by injuries former keeper Sid Haygreen was persuaded to leave his rocking chair and help his under pressure former Club. In the process some of his excellent saves helped Melford to a double over the Norfolk club. In the opening minute the visitors had a golden chance to take the lead, the tricky Lindsay courtesy of a defensive error was left clear to run at the Melford goal, Haygreen came off his line and the shot from the attacker went wide of the goal. Soon after this Haygreen pushed round the post a fierce free-kick from Butler. However on 18 minutes it was Melford who went ahead, a deflected pass put the impressive ANDY SMITH clear of the Greens defence and the Melford striker thumped the ball wide of keeper Molloy into the bulging net. Both the Melford front men Stokes and Smith had further efforts sail wide of the Gorleston goal. The visitors levelled with a slightly lucky goal on 38 minutes COE was allowed to work his way down the right flank, and what look intended as a cross found its way into the Melford net. This spurred on the Greens and Haygreen was again in action fisting away a Lindsay corner. The game took an unplanned turn on 51 minutes when Stokes who was a handful to the Gorleston defence was chopped down from behind by Ottley, a free kick was given, but by way of a push the Melford striker retaliated, referee Cook issued the red card to Stokes, but was unable, after an identity parade to punish the perpetrator of the foul and for some bizarre reason switched the free kick to the visiting team. The Villagers introduced 16 yr old Carl Daw to the fray and his pace started to create problems for Gorleston and on  71 minutes his pass released SMITH for him to bang in his second goal with the Gorleston defence appealing for offside. At the other end Gorleston upped the tempo but a combination of Haygreen, desperate defending and a slice of luck kept the Melford lead. Ten minutes  before the end Smith turned provider some good passing saw his final ball find the run of 17 yr old  STEVE CHISHOLM who fired home from close range to cap an excellent game for the youngster. Soon after this the Greens keeper Molloy did well to turn over the bar a well struck free kick from Walker. The drama was not complete as on the end of normal time  Player-Manager  INGRAM hooked the ball from the right flank over Haygreen and into the net to give impetus to the visitors. A tense finish ensued but Melford on the day just about deserved all the points.

Melford Squad:-  Haygreen, L. Cawtheray, French, Walker, Durell, Vaughan, Chisholm, Jack Taylor (63), Stokes (dismissed 51 mins,) Andy Smith (82), Hawkins

Subs:- Daw (63), Grindrod (82), not used Stevens, Knibbs, Fisher

2 January, 2007

Long Melford 1, Whitton United 4

The visitors completed the double over Melford in the end with some ease. It looked good for Melford when after six minutes a ball over the top found DANNY STOKES who spotted keeper Rose off his line and lobbed the ball into the net. Two minutes later Melford lost Hawkins with a head injury and soon after this Whitton leveled, a corner from the left flank found RONALDO WRIGHT who headed home without challenge. Both ends saw chances Vaughan putting his header wide for Melford and a shot from Wright was pushed round the post by Rulton. On thirty minutes Whitton went ahead a shot from MILLS rebounded off the chest of keeper Rulton and the same player tucked the ball home. Over the halftime break Melford had to substitute the injured Alder and the unwell Walker, this meant a team reshuffle with Stokes reverting to a defensive role. The visitors took much of the play during the second period with Melford relying on the break Further goals were added on 69 minutes when MILLS volleyed home a corner with the final and best goal coming on 75 minutes when HAREWOOD  ran from the halfway line and his angled shot went home via the post.  

Melford Squad:-  Rulton, Alde r(45), French, Taylor, Durell, Vaughan, Hawkins (9), Walker (45), Stokes, Norton, Wiggins,  

Subs:- Cawtheray (9), Fisher (45),  Grindrod ( 45),  Knibbs

30 December, 2006

Ely City 7, Long Melford 0

After a reasonably competitive first half, Melford were put to the sword in the second half by a rampant home team, seemingly inspired against a background of torrential rain accompanied by a spate of thunder and lightning. Early on Norton overran the ball for Melford when took the ball off defender Thurlbourne, whilst keeper Rulton who despite the score line excelled for Melford, came off his line to clear from the advancing Impey. For Melford Frost shot wide and at the other end Smith put his effort over the bar. On 26 minutes some sloppy defending allowed the home team to take the lead. Several efforts to clear saw the ball remain in the Melford box and BEECH latched onto the ball to slip it home just inside the post. Then came the torrential rain and both teams found it very difficult, again Rulton in the Melford goal produced two excellent saves from Impey and Reeves whilst Stokes wasted two good chances for Melford at the other end. It was pretty poor justice on the Melford keeper two minutes from the interval when a gentle shot from LONG slipped from his grasp into the net to put the home team two goals to the good. Whilst Melford sparked for minute or two in the second half, it was almost one way traffic with the home team revelling in the conditions against the wilting Melford youngsters. Three minutes into the second half and IMPEY hammered home from twenty yards, Melford tried to hit back with Walker putting his shot over the bar. On 70 minutes Melford were caught square and REEVES scored with aplomb from fifteen yards, still Rulton performed some heroics this time diving at the feet of Beech to deny yet another goal chance. The on came substitute CHATTERS to make room for himself and score from some thirty yards, this was followed by Chatters providing an excellent cross for WESTCOTT to head home  And there was REEVES just before the final whistle to drive home from fully thirty yards. A weather charged performance in the second half for Ely against the boys of Melford who were pretty poor other than that man Rulton in goal he must eat three Weetabix a day! 

Melford Squad:-  Rulton, Alder, French (56), Frost (37), Vaughan, Durell, Hawkins, Walker, Stokes, Norton (75), L. Cawtheray 

Subs:-  Knibbs (37), Fisher (75), Grindrod (75), Taylor

27 December, 2006

Cornard United 1, Long Melford 4

In front of a good holiday crowd, the home team looked impressive in the early stages of the game, and after 8 minutes took the lead, the returning Tommy Childs claimed possession on the left side of the box, and laid the ball back to BEN LAWSON who lashed the ball home from some twenty yards. Within minutes Melford were level with Smith released by Walker, holding the ball up and laying a pass into the path of DANNY STOKES who calmly placed the ball wide of keeper Athey. This increased the tempo of the game with Lawson shooting wide of the gaping goal and soon after Adam Warren heading wide, chances that perhaps Cornard should have taken. On thirty five minutes Melford took the lead, a corner from Hawkins, saw Melford Player Manager  JOHN TAYLOR head firmly into the net. This could have gone to three goals minutes later with Smith being clearly upended in the penalty area, but the free kick being awarded outside the area, the kick taken by Frost was blocked by the Cornard defence. The second half started with Sprunt and McMillan both having chances but not converting for Cornard. Melford increased the lead on 61 minutes with poor Cornard defending allowing the ball to bounce around the area until TAYLOR forced home at the far post. The home team brought on subs and changed formation in an effort to retrieve the game, but Melford were now increasingly dangerous, with Smith lobbing inches wide and Hawkins shooting just wide. In the added time period ace Melford sub. JOE NORTON scored the goal of the game when he turned his defender on the edge of the box swiveled and shot and his left foot effort rocketed into the top corner of the net. Not the greatest game of the season but one that clearly belonged overall to Melford.

Melford Squad:-  Rulton, Durell, Alder, French, Vaughan, Frost (65), Hawkins, Walker, Stokes (82), A. Smith, Taylor (77)

Subs:- Norton (77),  Cawtheray (65),  Knibbs (82), Grindrod

16 December, 2006

Hadleigh United 2, Long Melford 1

The visitors started the game brightly with Norton and Wiggins probing with pace the Hadleigh defence, but the home keeper Whitworth dealt with any efforts from the Melford attack. Gradually Hadleigh took control and Melford were forced into defensive mode, with Fleming hitting the woodwork and Payne heading wide. The first goal came on 18 minutes when FLEMING fired in a ground-hugging shot from 30 yards keeper Rulton dived but could only fingertip the ball into the net. This saw Hadleigh forcing several corners and spattering the Melford woodwork from one of the corners Melford were unable to clear and SMITH fired home from eight yards to increase the lead. Just before halftime Melford brought on French to defence and his experience seemed to stabalise the situation. Where the home team had more of the play first half Melford took the second half with Stokes and Norton creating some havoc for the home defence.  On 75 minutes STOKES was rewarded when he picked a poor back-pass from Sadler and rounded keeper Whitwell to score. It was now the turn of Hadleigh to fight for survival and Norton had his effort blocked on the line and Frost fired his effort just wide on the goal as Melford forced several corners. Despite the spirited performance the leveller did not arrive and the home team completed their double over Melford. 

Melford Squad:-  Rulton, L.Cawtheray, Grindrod (39), Frost, Durell, Vaughan, Hawkins, Walker, Fisher,  Norton, Wiggins (65) 

Subs:-  French (39), Stokes (65), Taylor, Knibbs

12 December, 2006 - East Anglian Cup

Lowestoft Town 1, Long Melford 0

With the home team fielding only three players who have featured in the first team this season, and Melford likewise minus five of their normal squad, this was on that basis an entertaining game. Melford could have gone ahead in the first minute but Smith was unable to get his shot in and only great efforts from Melford keeper saving from Mac Aleese and Ian Smith kept the   goal-line intact. On eighteen minutes the goal came for the home team when MacAleese converted from close range giving Rulton no chance. Chances fell at both ends, in the second half Carl Daw, who was sixteen last week, having his effort cleared off the Lowestoft goal line. A home supporter summed it up for Melford when he said "for a bottom of the League team Melford played well and might well have got something from the game".

Melford Squad:- Rulton, Chisholm, Knibbs, Durell, Grindrod, Daw, Hawkins, Walker, Frost, A. Smith (59), Stokes (65),

Subs:-   Fisher(59), Taylor(65)

9 December, 2006

Long Melford 4, Thetford Town 1

Melford at last recorded their first home win of the season, deserved with a slightly flattering scoreline. Early in the game Thetford made most of the running but is was Melford who went ahead on 16 minutes. Defender Durell played a fine pass to Smith down the right flank and his pulled back pass found WiGGENS on the far post and he slotted home from close range, with the added bonus of scoring on his debut. Minutes after this a cross from Wiggens eluded everyone and ran though the goal area for a throw on. Soon after this Thetford should have levelled but Cole fired over the bar when well placed. Just on 30 minutes the leveller came with a Thetford corner from Cole not being cleared by the Melford defence, the loose ball coming to CRAWSHAW who was allowed to pick his spot from six yards. Five minutes later and Melford went back in the lead when Smith through on goal was taken down in the area and up stepped WIGGENS to coolly net from the spot. This lead could have been increased on the half time whistle with Smith again through on goal but his shot was well saved by keeper Snowden. The game went into the second half with a vigorous Thetford appeal for a penalty when Melford keeper Rulton collided with Cole in the penalty area but referee Theobald waved away the protests. Again Melford as in the previous week seemed to have lapsed into a state of non competition with Thetford taking over the game. Forcing several corners, only two brilliant diving saves by Rulton from Bellingham first and then Pask kept Melford in the lead. Midway through the half the relief came for Melford when a piece of individual brilliance from DARREN FROST saw him run forty yards at goal evading tackles to plant the ball past keeper Snowden. Nine minutes later the score was increased when under pressure keeper SNOWDEN attempted to clear a back pass, miss-kicking into his own net. Chances fell at both ends but Melford held on for a deserved victory with a slightly flattering scoreline.   

Melford Squad:- Rulton, Durell, Grindrod, Frost (83), Vaughan, Wojciechowski ,Hawkins, Walker, A. Smith, Fisher ( 71), Wiggens (63) 

Subs:- Knibbs (63), Daw (71), L Cawtheray (83),  not used: French, Chisholm

6 December, 2006

Long Melford 2, Hadleigh United 3

A lack-lustre local derby between two very average teams ended with Melford unable to add any points to their miserly total for the season. For the first twenty minutes Melford looked the more impressive team, and in that time Smith had two good chances but failed to convert and a goal-bound header from Grindrod was cleared off the goal line. At the other end only a timely tackle from Vaughan on Payne prevented the visitors from opening the scoring. After 19 minutes Melford went ahead when a 35 yard free kick from HAWKINS which eluded the Hadleigh defence including keeper Whitwell and went into the net via the post. Eight minutes later and the visitors were level with Melford open down the right hand flank the ball came to Payne down the left hand side with the ball finding the Melford box and there was MYHILL unmarked at crouching level to head home. This was followed by a long range shot from Gresham which hit the post and went  out of play On the half time whistle Knibbs fouled in the area and up-stepped one of five exMelford players in the Hadleigh lineup, POWLING to net with ease from the spot. The opening of the second half was all Hadleigh, with Payne missing two sitters soon after the  kick off, this was followed by a series of corners and from one of these taken by Myhill, keeper Rulton palmed the ball away only to find the head of ROSE at the far post who headed home from close range. Both teams substituted with Player Manager John Taylor coming on for Melford, his influence in organising the team was in evidence right away. From his cross Walker put in a bullet header which keeper Whitwell tipped over the bar. On 79 minutes Melford got a goal back with TAYLOR holding off challenges he turned and shot from the edge of the box and keeper Whitwell could only watch the ball go into the net. The Villagers stormed forward with Vaughan heading just over, Smith firing wide whilst at the other end the offside flag foiled Payne when he netted. Just before the end it seemed Melford would level but Smith was unable to bring the ball down from two yards out and his effort went over the bar.

Melford Team:- Rulton, Durell, Knibbs (53), French, Vaughan, Wojciechowski, Moore(45),  Walker, A. Smith, Hawkins, Grindrod (65)  

Subs:-  Taylor (65), Daw (53), Cawtheray (45),  C. Green, D.Frost (not used)

Saturday, 18 November, 2006

Stowmarket Town 4, Long Melford 0

Another poor show from Melford who were dead and buried 15 minutes into the game when the home team took a 3 goal lead. The opener came after 4 minutes when Smyth crossed and the innocent looking header from GRAY eluded Melford loan keeper Churchill and looped into the net. This was increased three minutes later SMYTHE ran unchallenged down the right flank and his cross appeared to find the net. Whether it was a goal proved to be a point of conjecture as the ball ended outside the goal. After some debate it was found that there was a large break in the netting of the goal net. The referee after initially giving a goal kick adjusted his decision to a goal, although amongst the spectators the debate continued. This did little for the confidence of the Melford defence when on twelve minutes Cracknell shrugged off his markers, ran down the right flank and his cross was pushed home at the far post by GRAY. Somehow Melford found some composure and created some goal mouth action at the other end with Smith and Hawkins producing saves from Charters. It was a better and more even second half with Durell having his shot hacked off the line by Deasy and again the hardworking Hawkins having two efforts blocked in the penalty area. Further efforts saw Walker shoot over the bar and an effort Wojciecskowski was narrowly wide. In Stowmarket attacks both Cracknell and Langham went just wide with headers and Melford keeper Churchill coming out of his area to clear on two occasions. The killer blow came for Melford in added time, a poor clearance from Churchill came back wide to TAYLOR-HOLT and he cut in and fired wide of the Melford keeper. Serious problems for Melford who will have to strengthen their team if they are to climb from the relegation zone,

Melford Squad:-  Churchill, Durell, Knibbs, Vaughan, Bidgood, Wojciechowski (80), Hawkins, Walker, Lofts, Smith, Taylor(45) 

Subs:-  French (45), Moore, Cawtheray (80)

Saturday, 11 November, 2006

Long Melford 1, March Town United 1

Two teams lurking at the bottom of the  league could only as anticipated produce a pretty poor game and in the end the share of points were about right. Early on Melford had most of the play with Knibbs firing wide and Walker having an effort blocked. Eventually March got to the other end of the pitch and in the first attack Paul Cousins headed wide. In another attack a drive from Roe was well taken by keeper Rulton. With the ball going from end to end there was little goalmouth action. Just before half time Menarry flashed a free kick wide for March whilst at the other Wojciechowski did likewise for Melford. Early into the second half the game took a important twist, Melford keeper Craig Rulton was fouled taking a cross and was prone on the ground for several minutes, eventually leaving for hospital with a kidney injury. Player Manager John Taylor came on for Melford whilst French took over in goal. Stand-in keeper French produced two excellent saves pushing round the post an effort from Quinn and soon after making a point blank save from Roe. On 75 minutes the visitors took the lead, SHAFER found space down the right flank and his intended cross swerved into the top corner of the net, giving French no chance. The Villagers retaliated immediately with Durell finding some space down the right his flighted cross was handled by Paul Cousins who was yellow carded. The kick was converted by FRENCH with keeper Wright finger-tipping the ball into the net. This almost produced the winner for Melford with Smith cleverly losing his marker and through on goal with keeper Wright diving to push his shot round the post. Despite the added five minutes neither team could produce the winning effort and the spoils were shared.  

Melford Squad:-    Rulton (57), Durell,  Knibbs, Hawkins, Vaughan, Wojciechowski, Moore (74),  Walker, Smith, French, Grindrod

Subs:-   Cawtheray (74),  C. Green, Taylor (57)

Monday, 6 November 2006

Long Melford 0, Hadleigh Utd  2 -  (Ridgeons Div. 1 KO Cup)

On a cold dank night there was little to inspire the hardy few spectators from two poor performing teams. The first twenty minutes saw Melford well on top but unable to convert pressure to goals. On twenty one minutes they went behind when a terrible kick from keeper Rulton went a few yards to the feet of CURTIS who tucked the ball home with ease, this error was compounded shortly after when Walker lost the ball coming out of a defensive position the ball was swung into the box and there was former Melford player MYHILL to fire home from just outside the box. Both teams huffed and puffed through a mediocre second half with chances going begging at both ends, with in the last five minutes Stokes rattling the crossbar and having another effort cleared by a Hadleigh defender off the goal line. Poor game from two poor teams on the night. 

Long Melford:-  Rulton, Durell, Knibbs, Lofts, Vaughan, Walker, Hawkins, Stokes, Frost, French Wojciechowski 

Subs:-  Chisholm, Statham, Grindrod, Cawtheray

Saturday, 4 November, 2006

Debenham LC 3, Long Melford 1

 After matching their highflying opponents for much of the game lowly Melford will have been very disappointed not to have got at least a point. Much of the early pressure was with Melford in this game, and they had a good chance after eight minutes but Paul Walker scuffed his shot. Gradually the home team found their pace and Gedny and Jopling were starting to run at the Melford defence. A corner on 21 minutes saw Pratt power in a header, but the excellent Rulton in the Melford goal pushed the ball away via the crossbar, a minute later the home team went ahead. Porter found Gedny and his pull back came to BARKER who crashed the ball home. The visitors almost levelled soon after when a corner found the head of Taylor and his powerful effort was hooked off the line by Pratt. This was followed by a fierce shot from the same player which just went wide of the upright. On the half time whistle Melford went further behind again with Gedny involved, JOPLING was able to run along the Melford line with three Melford defenders in attendance, he twisted and turned and his weak effort trickled inside the Melford goal post.  For the start of the second half Melford were under great pressure with Bryant threatening with his pace down the flanks, some great defending by in particular the improving Wojciechowski and the youthful Sam Knibbs kept Debenham at bay aided by two further magnificent saves from keeper Craig Rulton. Although under pressure Melford continued to play some good football and from one of these moves involving Hawkins and Taylor the ball was laid off to WALKER who crashed the ball home from 25 yards. This led to a Melford challenge for an equaliser, with several corners being forced and shots from Wojciechowski and Moore  going wide. With  Melford pushing men forward it  was to lead to the  third goal for the home team, with just a minute on the clock, Evans found room down the right flank and crossed for GEDNY to push home from close range. Just time for Melford to launch a final offensive with a shot from Lofts going wide and Moore through on goal, passing when really a shot might have been the answer. Defeat for Melford but a good team performance and with two more additions to the squad some victories will surely follow. 

Melford:-   Rulton, Durell, French (89), Knibbs, Wojciechowski, Lofts, Frost (60), Hawkins, Walker, Smith (74), Taylor

 Subs:- Moore(60), Cawtheray (74), Grindrod(89

24 October, 2006 - Ridgeons League Cup

Tiptree Untited 4, Long Melford 2

This game looked dead and buried for Melford after the home team surged into a three goal lead, a Churchillian effort led by the Melford loan keeper Richard Churchill saw Melford claw back to 3 goals to 2 with the home team making sure with a fourth goal towards the end of the game.The speed of the Tiptree attack saw Melford crumble under goals from Robinson, Lee and Bryant, with Danny Stokes pulling a goal back for Melford. The second half saw John Taylor come on for Melford and they started to compete as a team on 55 minutes Taylor put the ball into the far post and Hawkins converted. Soon after this Taylor had a header scrambled off the line. With Keeper Churchill producing some fantastic saves and Tiptree hitting the bar and post, the Melford keeper excelled also saving a penalty from Rochester. Just before the end Rochester scored the fourth goal for the home team and Melford bowed out with spirit from the Cup 

Melford:-   Churchill, Durell, Knibbs, Lofts, Bidgood (82), Vaughan, Hawkins, Isom (45), Stokes, French Frost

Subs:-   Taylor (45), Walker, Wojieskwi (82), Stevens (86)

21 October, 2006

Long Melford 0, Swaffham Town 4

Melford hit by injuries and suspensions faced a daunting task against League leaders Swaffham Town and for the early part of the game the visistors were well in charge. Former Melford player Hammond came close with a shot and another ex Melford player Hobbs had his effort cleared off the line. In between this Smith was through on goal, but was hauled down by Setchell, who surprisingly was penalised for the foul, but not carded by the referee. The first goal came on 12 minutes when NORMAN bundled the ball home from five yards, with Melford appealing for offside with Hammond standing on the goal line. Just four minutes later NORMAN held off his defender and fired home from 12 yards giving Watcham no chance in the Melford goal. Then the torrential rain came and seemed to fire Melford into action and for the period up to halftime Melford had most of the play with Hawkins forcing a diving save from Butters and Knibbs putting in a cross which the keeper pushed for a corner. Although Melford continued to have more than a fair share of the ball, the second half commenced with substitute Tony French donning the keepers jersey for the injured Watcham. Soon after this Walker for Melford came off injured to be replaced by Stevens Ten minutes into the second half Melford were unlucky not to claw a goal back a tremendous volley from Darren Frost hit the post and came back into play. Unlucky for Melford and also for Frost who was the most impressive player on display. Another injury hit Melford when striker Danny Stokes was carried off to be replaced by Grindrod  Twenty one minutes into the half the visitors increased their lead a long range effort from Doherty bounced from the grasp of keeper French and HUNTER was able to prod home from close range. Another five minutes into the game and NORMAN completed his hat trick when he left his defender in his wake to drive home from fifteen yards. Just time for Taylor to make a great run and see his shot well saved by keeper Butters and at the other end French produced an acrobatic save to keep out a shot from Norman. One bright fact for Melford all three new signings had good games. 

Melford:-    Watcham (45) L. Cawtheray, Knibbs, Wojciechowski, Vaughan, Taylor, Hawkins, Walker (51), Stokes ( 57), Frost, A. Smith

Subs:- Grindrod (57), Stevens (51), French (45), Balaam, Allard

7 October, 2006 - Suffolk Senior Cup (1st Round)

Long Melford 1, Walsham-le-Willows 2

The match kicked off on a fine autumn afternoon with Long Melford the underdogs following two successive defeats. However, the early skirmishes revealed little between the two sides, both teams attempting passing football on a decent pitch.

With ten minutes gone Stokes fired wide from fifteen yards for Melford and Walsham�s first shot on goal didn�t come until the quarter hour mark. Shortly after Taylor shot wide, a speculative cross from the left caught the Melford defence napping and with Watcham coming off his line Ross headed Walsham into the lead.

The visitors, buoyed by the goal, continued to pressure Melford for much of the rest of the half with Watcham making some good saves. An earlier penalty shout to Melford looked even more significant when Walsham scored their second goal just before half-time when a corner from the left was scrambled over the line after a goalmouth scramble.

A half-time score of 0-2 flattered Walsham. The second half contained less good football than the first 45 minutes with the game becoming more robust and petulant. The refereeing seemed inconsistent and after 20 minutes Stokes was through on goal when fouled but only a yellow card was shown to the Walsham defender.  A few minutes later the referee awarded a dubious penalty to Walsham but the player hit the post and Brind cleared to safety and the score remained 0-2.

With less than ten minutes to go Taylor came off and a changed formation saw Brind playing further up the left wing where his tenacity and skill were more effective soon resulting in a delightfully taken goal from a rolled cross on the edge of the area. It was no more than Melford deserved for a spirited display against a strong, physical Walsham side. However, time ran out.

All played well with perhaps French standing out for his reliable, solid performance at the back.

 Team:- Watcham, Durell, Brind, French, Vaughan, Walker (c), Hawkins, Taylor, Bensley, Fitton, Stokes

 Subs :- Grindrod, Balaam, Frost

30 September, 2006

Long Melford 1, Fakenham Town 5

It looked good at half time for Melford an even first half and one goal to the good but the second half turned into a disaster. The visitors looked slightly stronger during the first period, with McManus striking wide and Anderson putting high and wide over the bar in another attack. Whilst at the other end a free-kick from Green was well saved by Lewis at the foot of the post. Soon after this in another Melford attack, Smith through on goal blazed inches wide. And that was how the first half progressed with both teams failing in the box. As the cups of tea were being poured Melford went ahead, some  good interchanges between Bensley and Taylor saw SMITH though  on goal and he blasted  the ball into the net. The second half started with controversy the referee awarded a penalty to Fakenham after it was adjudged that Vaughan had handled the ball, DARBY stepped up to convert the penalty. Minutes later and another blow for Melford when Sam Green was red-carded by referee Snell for stamping on an opponent. These events seemed to sap Melford and on the 54th minute the referee awarded another disputed free kick and with keeper Watcham spilling the ball, DAY bundled the ball home from close range. At this stage Melford were second best, with an ineffectual midfield Fakenham started to take control of the game. Just after  Bensley had his shot saved by keeper Lewis the ball came to the other end a cross from Mc Manus was forced home by JOHNSON at the far post. Melford continued to battle but were caught by the strong running of their opponents with substitute REBBECK coming onto to add the final two goals with fine strikes from fully 20 yards in each case. A dejected Melford, who will need to strengthen their team if they are to stay away from the bottom of the table.

Melford:- Watcham, Durrell, Brind, S. Green, Vaughan, Alder, Walker, Taylor, Bensley, Smith, Hawkins (89)

Subs:- L Cawtheray, Grindrod, Fitton, French (89), Frost

23 september, 2006 (FA Vase)

Ipswich Wanderers 11, Long Melford 0

A nightmare of a week leading up to this game ended in a pulverising defeat for Melford. Hit by a long list of injuries, followed by University departures the Villagers were seriously considering conceding the game before travelling to Ipswich. They never matched the home team in any department for the whole game. The first six goals arrived like a conveyor belt over the first half hour. It started with Smy heading home after 4 minutes, followed by a Swann shot at the near post. The third saw Hetherington knocking home at the far post, then Smy shot home his second goal. Then Hyde headed home and Martin shot from close range for the sixth. A slight lull before Owen made it seven followed by another goal for Swann on the half time whistle. One could have expected a white flag to be raised over the Melford dressing room at half time but to their credit they battled on. In the second half John Taylor dropped into a defensive position and the one way traffic was halted at times. Further goals were added by Hetherington running onto a long ball, Smy converting a free kick after a silly foul was conceded just outside the area, and Smy again scored the final goal with a blistering shot from outside the area. As for Melford well they tried but never looked remotely in the game, if they are to go anywhere they will need to quickly sign some players who can really compete at this level.   

Melford:-   Ian Frost, Durell, Brind, A.Smith, Vaughan, Fitton (45), Hawkins, Walker, Hart, S. Green, Taylor 

Subs:-  D. Frost (45), L. Cawtheray

16 September, 2006

Long Melford 3, Debenham LC 3

Melford were without the injured Stokes, but gave a debut to Sam Green signed from Haverhill Rovers mid-week, whilst Debenham were without the suspended Ian Gedny. It was an exciting game throughout with Taylor just clearing the crossbar for Melford and Jopling  missing his kick when through for the visitors. The Villagers looked dead and buried over a ten minute spell, on 14 minutes Bryant cut  in from the right flank his shot spilled from the hands of keeper Rulton and  JOPLING had a simple tap in from  close range. Four minutes later Melford were incensed at the referee after playing on in favour of Debenham which saw the ball lost in the Melford penalty area, but the referee ordered a free kick just outside the area taken by COURRIDGE, it beat keeper Rulton at the foot of the post. Soon after this Debenham increased their lead again, a cross from the right found BOWMAN who blasted home. Despite the odds Melford battled back with efforts from Smith and Green coming close. The second half saw Melford opening strongly  with Taylor prompting well from mid field and  the diminutive Joe Norton causing problems up front. On 52 minutes Melford came back a well struck shot from Walker rebounded to SMITH who pushed home from close range. Straight away Melford got another back, good play between Taylor and Durell saw NORTON released in the box to score from five yards. Soon after Smith hit a post, but the Melford leveller came on 63 minutes, Powling played a great ball from defence to NORTON who outpaced the defence and took the ball round keeper Holland to score his second goal. It was all Melford now with only the odd foray from Debenham, with both Green and Smith coming close and Melford forcing several corners and in the end top of the table Debenham glad to hold on for a point.  

Melford Team:-   Rulton, Durell, Grindrod (24), Vaughan, French (58), Powling, Hawkins, Walker, A. Smith, S .Green (82), Taylor 

Subs:-   Fitton, Frost (82), Brind (58), Norton (24)

9 September, 2006

Gorleston 1, Long Melford 4

Youthful Melford prompted and well marshalled by seasoned campaigners Taylor and French took more of their chances and fully deserved their first League victory. Inside a minute Melford had a great chance to go ahead, through on goal Powling fired over the bar. Whilst at the other end Bowles, yards from the goal, delayed  his shot and his effort was deflected for a corner. After 27 minutes Melford went ahead, the home team who conceded plenty of free kicks paid the price when from one of these Hawkins whipped the ball into far post. Keeper Finch missed his punch and POWLING headed powerfully into the net. There was an immediate response from the home team with Melford keeper Rulton saving well from Bowles and Squires in quick succession. It looked as though Melford had given the leveller away. Just before the interval, a poor back pass from Walker was picked up by Ingram   but his shot was pushed round the  post by keeper Rulton. Just time before halftime for Stokes to miss from three yards for Melford after being set up by Smith from the right flank. The second half started for Melford as per the opening minute of the first with Smith through on goal but missing his kick at the crucial moment. Almost from this incident the home team equalised with Todd laying the ball off to SQUIRES who struck a superb shot into the net from some thirty yards. Then came a great ten minute spell for Melford, on 51 minutes a Hawkins corner was back headed  across the box by  Donnelly and STOKES forced home from close range just reward for his hard work up front. Another could have come from the kick off with Stokes through on goal but shooting straight at keeper Finch. The third goal came on 55 minutes Bowles committed a needless foul on the edge of the box, the ball was teed to TAYLOR and his  low shot deflected into the net. Three minutes later Melford went further ahead some clever close passing between Stokes and Taylor saw SMITH put into the box and he slotted with ease past keeper Finch. Tiring legs saw Melford make their substitutions and towards the end of the game resist the sustained efforts of the home side to get back into the game, with keeper Rulton excelling again with fine saves from Ingram and Squire. Just time for home Player/Manager Ingram to gain the sixth yellow card for the home side, which portrayed their rugged approach to the game. Better for Melford, hopefully to keep up the good work and climb up the League. 

Melford Squad:-  Rulton, Durell (70), French (80),Powling, Donnelly, Vaughan, Hawkins, Walker, Smith, Stokes Taylor (75) 

Subs:-  Brind (75), Frost (70), Grindrod (80)

2 September, 2006

Long Melford 0, Walsham-le-Willows 1

This further defeat places Melford at the foot of the table with Downham, who too are pointless so far this season. With Donnelly unavailable Manager Taylor was in the starting lineup together with two players from the Reserves. The high wind made football very difficult for both teams, but it was Walsham who came closest early on with Deeks missing his header from close range and keeper Rulton making a fine save from Gary Ross. The only goal came on 19 minutes, a quick throw in caught Melford napping with no marking and DEEKS fired to the far post where the ball took a deflection off a Melford defender and ended up in the top corner of the net. The home team improved over the second period with Stokes and Bensley both having efforts cleared. On 56 minutes another disaster for Melford, Grindrod on his debut was harshly judged to have fouled Bloomfield in the Melford area and the referee pointed to the spot. This was taken by Paul Musgrove, but keeper Rulton dived to save  just inside the post. As the game went on Melford got braver and Durell lobbed just over the bar and as Melford pushed for the leveler. Brind put his shot just wide and in the dying minutes Grindrod skimmed the Walsham bar and just before the end Stokes through on goal shot straight at keeper Bugg, but is was not to be and Melford suffered their third one goal defeat of the season.  

Melford:-   Rulton, Durell (83), Grindrod, Vaughan, Powling, French, Hawkins. Walker, Bensley (76), Stokes, Taylor (64) 

Subs:- Claydon (83), Brind (64), Fitton, Remnant(76)

29 August, 2006

Whitton United 6, Long Melford 2

The thrust, cut and pace of Whitton had Melford in defensive mode for much of the game, although the defeat could be to some extent mitigated by the bizarre refereeing decision after only eight minutes of the game. A long ball from Whitton found Ronaldo Wright on the edge of the Melford box, he was challenged by Paul Donnelly, in the process Wright armed Donnelly off the ball the tussle continued into the area, Wright lost control of the ball and went over after a collision with Donnelly. Amid protests from Whitton the referee to the amazement of all including local supporters awarded a penalty. Not content with that mistake Mr Gilman then issued Paul Donnelly with a red card to dent the youngster�s previous unblemished record. It was such a travesty of justice that you could almost see some defense of in immediate forfeit of the game. Up got Wright to net from the spot. Four minutes later a Whitton defender handled in the box (no yellow card) and Tony French slammed home from the spot. Although Melford battled well Williams increased the lead on 17 minutes and just before half time R. Wright completed the first half scoring. From half time the game continued with a high degree of swearing at officials, balls being kicked away in petulance, but no further cards! Then on 75 minutes another bit of pantomime the seasoned heavyweight Lenny Pack was "flattened" by Melford�s  diminutive flyweight teenager Joe Norton, free kick awarded and Pack scores from the edge of the area.   Three minutes Duane Wright nets from close range, whilst at the other end Gavin Bensley replies with a good goal for Melford. And just before the end Ronaldo Wright scores yet again for Whitton. Not much on the plus side for Melford, keeper Rulten had a great game and the front two of Stokes and Bensley worked well, but some midfielders needed quick. 

Melford:-  Rulton, Durell,,French,(45), Pallant (45), Donnelly (off 8 mins), Clayden, Hawkins, Walker (63), Bensley, Stokes, Taylor  

Subs:- Fitton (63), Frost, Norton (45), Powling (45), Grindrod

26 August, 2006

March Town United 2, Long Melford FC 1

Just as Melford thought they had a point in the bag the Brand brothers combined to snatch a March winner minutes from the end of the game. The first half was very poor with both teams lacking in any passing ability and little in the way of football was played. Home keeper Marshall saving from Stokes and Bensley, whilst Rulton on his first team debut in the Melford goal made a brave save at the feet of Welcher just before half time to keep the game without goals at the interval. The second half was a vast improvement with Marshall diving to save an effort from Bensley and at the other end French cleared off the line to deny Ashley Brand. At the 57 minute mark the home team went ahead, Ashley Brand found space down the left flank and his perfect cross was knocked home by SHAFER. Within 4 minutes Melford replied, Hawkins was fouled just outside the area Walker took a short free-kick to STOKES who fired the ball home. With the introduction of John Taylor Melford started to look a team with someone in midfield slowing the game and passing with precision, both ends saw chances, with Donnelly in the Melford defence looking the best player on display. Then 7 minutes from the end a lapse in concentration by  Melford saw Ashley Brand jink his way past Melford defenders, his pass found LAWRIE BRAND who blasted into the net. For Melford the midfield was poor and Manager Taylor will be looking to reinforce that area shortly.

Melford Squad:- Rulton, Durell (77), Powling, French, Hawkins, Donnelly, Pallant, Walker, Ferrugia (14), Bensley, Stokes 

Subs:-  Frost (14), Taylor(72), Claydon (77), Fitton, Grindrod

18 August - FA CUP Prelim. Round  

Long Melford 1  Cornard Utd.   3

 Melford can have no complaints with this result, Cornard hungry for the result against a lethargic Melford who only came to life in the last thirty minutes. Soon after the kick-off Cornard went ahead, a wide ball found CUTTS free down the left flank and he rifled past keeper Motteram to give the visitors a dream start. In truth, that they could have multiplied the score in minutes with Cutts, in a similar position, shooting wide, and Kemp shooting weakly at keeper Motteram. With little being seen of Melford, Cornard doubled the score on 26 minutes, a nice cross from Owen found CUTTS again unmarked and he headed into the net. Following this Kemp released Cutmore and his fierce shot went narrowly over the Melford bar,  Just before half time Cornard lost Proske injured and for the final five minutes of the half  Melford came  close  Powling putting in two shots and Pallant heading wide. Early in the second half Cornard took off Cutts with an injury and Melford started to show some rhythm, although not before Cornard went further ahead. An angled free kick from Cutmore saw Melford keeper Motteram miss his punch and WARREN bundled home from close range. With player Manager Taylor on,  Melford piled on the pressure with Bensley, Stokes and Pallant all having chances. Chances were coming but not getting converted, a fine cross from Taylor was missed by Walker from just a yard out and Stokes had a further effort blocked. On the full time whistle Melford got a goal back, a delightful chip by Taylor was headed home by STOKES at the far post. In added time Melford had efforts from Taylor, Remnant and Stokes defended on the line, but no further goals emerged.

MELFORD:-  Motteram, Durell, French (80), Pallant, Donnelly, Powling, Hawkins, Walker, Bensley, Stokes, Ferrugia (60) 

Subs:- Taylor (60), Claydon, Cawtheray, Fitton,  Remnant (80)

12 August 2006

Long Melford 0, Great Yarmouth Town 1

With a high wind down the pitch and a parched bone dry surface both teams found it difficult to play quality football and it was through a defensive error that the visitors took all three points. On the five minute mark Walker almost put Melford ahead, his ball into the  far post caught in the wind and an acrobatic push round the post by keeper Banham kept the Yarmouth goal intact. The home team with the wind at their backs continued to press and forced several corners which created panic in the Yarmouth defense. The visitors spurned a golden chance when Didwell put through on goal took the ball round keeper Motteram, but fired wide of the gaping goal. The Villagers continued to have more of the play and further corners followed with Donnelly firing wide and high and from another Cawtheray having an effort cleared off the line, with Melford appealing for a penalty and a repeat chapter soon after came  from another effort from Bensley. In another attack Bensley was through on goal and brought down with the referee again turning away the Melford appeals for a penalty. Right on the half time whistle Yarmouth got what was their winning goal, Durell passed back to keeper Motteram and his clearance rebounded off N.Thompson and found DIDWELL who rifled into the bulging net. The Bloaters had more of the second half and should have increased their lead when N.Thompson through on goal shot right across the goal and into touch. The Villagers  brought on John Taylor in an attempt to retrieve a point and almost did so when a great cross from Tony French evaded touch and ran along the Yarmouth goal line. The visitors had two more openings with Cameron shooting weakly wide and M.Thompson failing to convert at the far post a good cross from Harman. At the end of the game the solitary goal was enough to give the title fanciers Yarmouth a winning start to the season.

LONG MELFORD:-  Gavin Motteram,  Ez Durell, Tony French, Chris Pallant, Paul Donnelly, Mark Powling, James Hawkins, Paul Walker, Gavin Bensley, Andy Smith (63), Liam Cawtheray (74)

Subs:-. Liam Fitton, Danny Stokes (74), Marc. Remnant, John Taylor (63)

Following the defeat against Yarmouth Melford Manager John Taylor was very upbeat, �After the poor pre-season friendly games, this was a great performance and gives great hope for the rest of the season, and in the end we were unlucky not to get a point".  The Melford Manager hinted that other players could soon be coming to Melford in the next few weeks.

8 August - Pre-Season Friendly

Long Melford 1, Diss Town 1

This was an interesting friendly with Diss who have almost a new team and Melford still with players on trial. The end result was just about right with both teams failing to convert what have  would have proved a winning goal. The home team went ahead on 27 minutes when Butler blasted home with a volley from the edge of the box giving keeper Motteram no chance. Melford leveled within 7 minutes when Durell made ground down the right flank, pulled the ball back from the byline, and ANDY  SMITH converted from close range. Both teams had chances in the second half with Diss finishing the stronger team but no further goals were to come. 

MELFORD TEAM:-  Gareth Motteram, Ez Durell, Paul Donnelly, Cary Grant, Tony French, James Hawkins, Paul Walker, Chris Pallant, Darren Frost, Andy Smith, Danny Stokes

Subs:- Liam Cawtheray, James Watcham, Marc Remnant, Liam Fitton, Craig Leonard