Long Melford manager Jules Mumford has been left delighted with his side’s start to the season in the Thurlow Nunn First Division.

After accumulating 22 points from a possible 30 before their visit to Downham Town this afternoon, The Villagers currently sit in second position in the table.

Following a pre-season of strong signings, Mumford’s men have got off to pretty much a dream start – as the boss explains.

“It’s been a good start, we’ve played some good football and scored plenty of goals,” declared the Villagers’ chief.

“A lot of the new lads have gelled very quickly and we’ve hit the ground running.”

A contingent of AFC Sudbury reserves players including duo Steve Adams and Steve Chisholm have made the switch across to Stoneylands in the summer and Mumford has particularly praised their contributions and impacts so far.

“All the Sudbury boys are well-grounded and they’ve been first class for us so far,” added Mumford.

Another player who is starting to make an impact on proceedings is former Ipswich Town youth player, Jamie Griffiths.

Having spent a year away from football following work commitments after spells at Plymouth Argyle (loan), Kettering Town, and AFC Sudbury following his release from Portman Road in 2011, Griffiths, a naturally attacking midfielder, is slowly starting to make a name for himself at the Villagers.

“Jamie’s only played the last three games for us after tearing a thigh muscle in pre-season, but he’s showing glimpses of his quality as he is getting fitter,” added Mumford.

“His quality is there for all to see and I think it’s helping others step forward and be noticed as well , especially the likes of Jack Durey who is scoring our goals and playing with confidence.”

Before today, Melford had won seven out of their 10 league games, with boss Mumford citing his side only playing two bad halves so far – at Stowmarket where they lost 3-1 – and at Swaffham where they lost 4-1.

“I’m very pleased with our start, I know it’s early days but to be at the top part of the table is very encouraging for the club,” added Mumford, whose side look well on course to achieve their aim of a top-six finish.

“We’re going well, the reserves are going well, and so are the two under-18 squads.

“There’s a great team spirit around the club, all the lads are local, they know each other, and are training really hard.”

Elsewhere in the Thurlow Nunn Premier League today, table-toppers Hadleigh play host to bottom-side Diss, while Felixstowe & Walton visit Godmanchester Rovers in a tasty-looking encounter.

Meanwhile, Norwich United will look to keep the Thurlow Nunn flag flying in the FA Cup as they, the only side from the league to remain in the competition, travel to Northern Premier League Premier Division giants Barwell.