A 64TH minute goal from Blake was enough to give Thetford Town a 1-0 win over Long Melford and book their place in the final of the Ridgeons League First Division Knock-Out Cup.

A tight semi-final saw Thetford edge out the Villagers and take their place in a major cup final for the first time in 20 years.

In an evenly poised match, Melford were more impressive in the first half with Flack twice going close and the dangerous Blake testing keeper Wood at the other end.

Melford almost took the lead when Skeggs’ overhead kick brought a goalline save from Bowden.

But it was the home side who came out sharper in the second half and Dixon and Blake were a constant threat for Thetford.

The warning signs were there - Jones crashing a shot against the Melford bar - before the breakthrough came. Melford were unable to clear as the ball bounced around the box and Blake forced the ball home from close range.

Adam Flack almost equalised for Melford straight after but his shot cannoned off the post.

It was to be the visitors’ last real chance as Thetford hung to claim their place in the final, where they play either Gorleston or Whitton United.