Home win against Ely City

At last a home league victory for Long Melford having been so close but so far many times during the season.

The victory means that Melford move within striking distance of Kirkley and Ely with games in hand over both teams.

After 21 minutes Ely were awarded a freekick within good distance of the Melford goal, the kick taken by Ben Harnwell, was eventually hacked clear by the Melford defence when a goal looked possible.

Play switched to the other end and the excellent Ben Judge outpaced his markers and his powerful shot was pushed round the post by Charlie Congreve in the Ely goal.

This was followed by Ryan Gibbs collecting the resultant corner ball and his excellent shot went narrowly wide.

Again keeper Congreve saved Ely when he made a point blank save from Ryan Gibbs when the Melford striker broke through on goal.

On 39 minutes Melford went ahead when a Harry Whiting-Noakes corner saw WILL WINGFIELD rise majestically to head home.

The second half saw both teams enjoy equal possession with Ely coming the closer to a goal.

After 83 minutes debutant Callum Dongray a new signing from Walsham, saved Melford when he headed a goal bound Ely shot off the Melford line.

The Villagers responded immediately and Harry Brown broke through the Ely defence and his fierce shot was inches outside the Ely goal post.

The final scare for Melford came after 93 minutes when a Louis Jenkins shot hit the Melford bar but dropped safely into the hand of Matt Walker the Melford keeper.  CHENOBERET

LONG MELFORD: Walker, Akinade, Collins, O Judge, J Brown (captain), Jackson, B Judge, Whiting-Noakes, Wingfield, R Gibbs, J Gibbs

Subs all used: Brennan, Ally, H Brown, Davies, Dongray

• Another home match coming up on Wednesday night when Brantham Athletic are the visitors to the Skyline Networks Stadium (7.45pm kick off).