Long Melford are looking to make it five Thurlow Nunn Premier Division wins in a row this afternoon.

The Villagers host Ely City in west Suffolk today, after excellent recent triumphs over Gorleston, FC Clacton, Great Yarmouth Town, and Kirkley & Pakefield has seen them climb into mid-table.

Melford boss Jules Mumford has been delighted with his team’s recent form after a previously indifferent season.

“We have played really well in this last few games against some top sides, and have got the results we have deserved,” said Mumford.

“When we play well, we are a match for anybody in this league, and the last four games have proved that.

“Performance-wise, I’ve been happy with how we have been playing in the whole season, but we just haven’t been getting the results until recently.”

Indeed, Melford have spent a lot of the campaign towards the bottom of the division, with a 6-1 defeat to lowly-placed Hadleigh just after Christmas raising a few eyebrows.

But, to their credit, The Villagers have regrouped, with the 1-0 win over Kirkley & Pakefield a turning point, in Mumford’s eyes.

“Our fortunes seemed to turn a little bit in that game,” said the boss.

“Darren Moyes saved a penalty at 0-0 for us, and we went on and scored shortly afterwards.

“I think that win gave us a bit of belief, and we are now playing with a lot more hunger.

“I think the players realised that they were in a relegation battle, and now they are standing up and fighting together, and playing much better as a team.”

Three points is the aim today against a 15th-placed Ely side who defeated Melford 2-0 earlier in the season.

“We were awful at their place,” continued Mumford.

“They played very well that day, and are a decent outfit. They had a good run in the FA Vase and are well-established at this level.

“We have had 10 days without a game to rest and prepare for this so hopefully that will stand us in good stead.

“Hopefully we can get the points and continue to stear clear of relegation, that’s the aim between now and the rest of the season.”

A win for Melford could see them leapfrog Brantham Athletic into 11th place today.