FA Vase exit at Saffron Walden

A break from league action saw Long Melford visit Saffron Walden Town from the Essex Senior League.

On a journey marred by flood diversions, it was difficult to imagine that the Catons Lane pitch would be playable, but it was! Although slightly hindered by a torrential shower, when both teams were warming up.

The first goal came after 23 minutes a deep Walden cross to the back post, saw ex Sittingbourne player  DARNELL KITHAMBO rise high to head downwards into  the net.

The second goal came after  37 minutes, when for Melford a harsh free kick was awarded to Saffron Walden,  and from the kick 35 yards out  long term  Bloods player JAKE NOBLE headed home.

In between for Melford, Hassan Ally got through on goal but his effort was smothered  by Jarvis Monk the home keeper. Two other near misses on the Melford goal  but no further additions before half time.

The second half mirrored the first period, Melford making five passes when two would suffice, whilst the home team got the ball forward quickly without trying to be too clever playing numerous passes out of their own half.

A sole shot from Harry Brown on the home goal, for Melford but little else to excite the visiting supporters.

The third goal came after 68 minutes when Melford keeper Matt Walker parried the ball into the path of ALEX WARMAN who smashed the ball into the net from three yards out.

Thankfully for the visiting supporters the whistle came  soon after ninety minutes, to end what had been another miserable day for all at Long Melford Football Club.   CHENOBERET

LONG MELFORD: Walker, O Judge, Akinade, Collins, B Judge,  Jackson, Whiting-Noakes, Dende,  J Brown, Ally, H Brown

Subs used: Humphreys, Wingfield, Quelch  unused: J Gibbs, Brennan, Birch