Diss Town Res. 0 Long Melford Res. 1

Melford named 7 debutants in his match-day 16 for a tough first game of the new season in Norfolk. Andrews, Cox and Waite all starting alongside returning former players in Joseph, Newman and the Roy brothers. A strong squad despite missing 6, with 3 of those on first team duty.

We started strongly and could have led from as early as the 2nd minute, some good work by Rayner and Newman down the right but Jospeh unable to capitalise on an excellent cross from the latter.

The pressure continued from the away side with Charlie Waite looking dangerous on the left flank but despite significant possession and pressure the home keeper kept the ball out of his net.

The chance of the half fell to Newman who skipped past 3 players before sitting down the keeper but could only flash his shot wide from a very acute angle.

The half-time whistle went with the scores 0-0 and despite their dominance Melford had nothing to show for a solid first half performance.

It was more of the same in the 2nd half, Melford driven forward by the impressive Isaiah Opara but unable to convert.

Changes came and a first competitive appearances for Melford for U18 sensation Ronnie Ward alongside Garcia De Souza and Saunders only served to enhance Melford’s control.

The goal came around the 60th minute, Opara busy and despite losing possession pressuring the defender into a loose pass that was latched onto by Joseph who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner for the away side.

Melford continued to dominate possession and threatened to add to their tally, new reserve team captain Deklyn Roy looking impressive aerially in defence and attack. Him and brother Addy adding some composure and defensive solidity to the Melford back line that never really looked threatened, credit too for Andrews and Rayner, both looking comfortable despite playing out of position at full back!

All in all a relatively comfortable afternoon’s work against a young Diss side who themselves were missing several players but gave a good account of themselves.

Next up for the Ressies is a trip to Saffron Walden for what should be a good test of their league credentials.

LONG MELFORD RES: Max Boulter, Jack Rayner, Joseph Andrews, Ismail Marshall, Deklyn Roy (c), Addy Roy, Perry Newman, Charlie Holmes, Jason Joseph, Charlie Waite, Charlie Cox

Subs used: Isaiah Opara, Ronnie Ward, Joel Garcia de Souza, Jack Saunders

Sub not used: Jacob Fairweather