It was a dismal derby day for Fakenham, as the Ghosts went down 2-1 at home to local rivals Swaffham on Friday.

With Ghosts manager Wayne Anderson looking at picking up a few points to ensure safety as soon as possible, beating a neighbouring side languishing at the foot of the table would have been a great place to start.

But it wasn’t to be, and The Ghosts were perhaps lucky to have only lost by the odd goal in three.

Prior to kick-off there was an impeccably observed minute-silence in honour of Jack Dunger, who had served The Ghosts for around 70 years in numerous roles over that time.

It took just over 20 minutes for any real effort on goal from either side, and with it came the game’s opening goal as Castellan fired home.

With Anderson’s words still ringing in his players ears after a half-time roasting, the Ghosts came out for the second half looking to level things. The referee waved away claims for a penalty, only for the visitors to race to the other end and with a mistimed challenge in the box were awarded one of their own. Vincent was the scorer for 0-2 after 50 minutes.

With the Fakenham bench looking to make changes, Ghosts skipper Matt Gilchrist was booked. Fakenham then had their first shot on goal as Matt Franks tested the Swaffham keeper.

With 63 minutes gone, Kyle Plumb gave Fakenham a lifeline as a bizarre scramble in the Swaffham area gave the frontman the chance to pull a goal back.

But there was to be no equaliser and Anderson’s strong words could be heard ringing from the dressing room after the final whistle.

Fakenham’s Gilchrist continued his protests to match officials as the players left the pitch, and was sent off.

Saffron Walden are the visitors to Clipbush Park on Saturday as the Ghosts, 16th in the table, look to finish in mid-table ahead of their Norfolk Senior Cup Final date with Kings Lynn.

Fakenham’s Reserves travel to face Norwich CEYMS on Saturday, looking to enhance their promotion hopes. They currently sit second in the Anglian Combination Division Three table after Saturday’s 2-0 win at Freethorpe, both goals coming from Joey Harrison.

Fakenham’s Under 18s hosted, and subsequently beat their Swaffham equivalent on Monday evening 2-1.