It’s been a difficult run of starting fixtures for new Thurlow Nunn Premier boys Stowmarket Town.

Felixstowe & Walton, Gorleston and Newmarket for your opening three league games could not have been much tougher for Rick Andrews’ side.

However, with a win, a draw and a defeat from those games, coupled with the fact they are yet to play at home on their Greens Meadow ground, as it undergoes work, things could have been worse.

Today the old Gold and Blacks travel to Ely City.

“Yes, I think it is fair to say it has been a tough start to the season for us,” Andrews said.

“The three teams we have played in the league so far finished three of the top four last season. We were 3-1 up at Felixstowe before losing 4-3, which in fairness was probably a fair reflection of the game, but still that was a tough one to lose.

“We then won at Gorleston and drew with Newmarket.

“It will be nice to be back on our own pitch on Tuesday night against Wroxham because it has all been a bit disruptive and I’m looking forward to getting to the end of September – that will give us a better idea of where we are.”

Stowmarket have also been knocked out of the FA Cup, but not before taking Bostick North, Romford, to a replay. Stowmarket travel to an Ely side today who have enjoyed a mixed bag of results.

“I know Ely boss Brady Stone well. He gets his team to play football the right way,” Andrews said.

“As a club we are just happy to be back in the Premier Division, but personally I want us to be the best we can.

“There is no pressure but our squad is very capable. It’s a long season ahead.”

Signing former Newcastle United and Ipswich Town defender Titus Bramble has obviously caused plenty of interest at the club and in the wider world of non-league in the area.

However, Bramble is likely to be missing today as he has a knee injury.

“We knew when we signed Titus he wouldn’t be available every week,” Andrews said.

“He’s away with Ipswich in September and he was set to play last week but has a sore knee and that is likely to keep him out this weekend as well.”