The misery continues for Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division Fakenham Town

Fakenham Town will go into the New Year on the back of another painfully heavy defeat, after losing 5-2 at Thetford Town on Bank Holiday Monday, writes Tony Miles.

Up against opposition that also find themselves at the wrong end of the Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division table, it was billed to be a very interesting game with both sides knowing how big the tie could ultimately prove against one of their closest rivals battling for survival.

Thetford started the stronger of the two teams, and unsurprisingly took the lead after just eight minutes. With the hosts having the majority of the chances, they should have extended the lead on numerous occasions. However it was Fakenham, and Josh Youngs, that netted next to level things up in the 43rd minute.

The joy didn’t last long for the Ghosts though, as just moments later Thetford regained the lead to go in at half-time with a 2-1 lead.

Another early goal for the Brecklanders in the second half made it 3-1, and Fakenham found themselves with a mountain to climb. A glimmer of hope came when Matt Franks scored after 70 minutes to make it 3-2, but that was as good as it got with Thetford – now occupying the last spot in the bottom three – finding the back of Tommy Rix’s net twice more.

The defeat leaves Robbie Harris’ second-from-bottom side in 19th, five points adrift of safety.

They are just a point ahead of Whitton United, who they face next weekend in another vital game for the team.

This Saturday however sees another massive game for Harris’ Ghosts, with the visit of Saffron Walden Town – who currently sit 17th – travelling to Clipbush Park (3pm kick-off). A win for Fakenham could see them make up ground on the teams above them, in terms of points at least. Any positional improvement could come in the next few weeks, with games to come against other teams in or around the relegation zone.

Needless to say, Fakenham will be looking to start 2016 with a bang.