The Fortress is breached!

Long Melford’s unbeaten home run since October was ended by league leaders Ipswich Wanderers.

Photos with thanks to Benie Davies @bee.dee.photography 

Not a great day for a football match, following heavy rain in the morning and a strong gusting wind.

Home manager Dave Hennessey had six players missing from Saturday’s win at Ely, but on the plus side welcomed back to Melford keeper Matt Walker who excelled upon his return.

Looking to clinch promotion The Wanderers put in a strong first half performance, with Melford showing great defensive resilience.

The sole goal of the game came after 13 minutes when James Eaton -Collins broke from the half way line down the Ipswich left flank and his hard low cross was knocked home by TEON LEGGETT from close range.

The same player had the chance to make it two goals soon after but blasted over the bar from five yards out.

There were glimpses of Melford in attack with Will Wingfield firing a free kick narrowly wide.

Just on half time keeper Walker made a exceptional save to keep out a header from Kris Rose, which looked to be goal bound.

The second half saw Melford again defending well to stay in the contest and Ipswich creating chances but not finishing.

And so for Ipswich another three points, while for Melford a very creditable performance against some great odds.

LONG MELFORD: Walker, Holmes, Newton, Marshall, Lazar, Jackson, Dende, Humphreys, Wingfield, Brown, Ally

Subs used: Hertz, Newman, Shillingford  not used: Smith