Long Melford showing positive early signs of progress in Thurlow Nunn League First Division North under new manager Martin McConnell

Martin McConnell is pleased with the change in mindset and momentum since his arrival as Long Melford manager.

The Villagers are unbeaten in McConnell’s opening trio of Thurlow Nunn League First Division North fixtures at the helm, following up a 2-1 win over Diss Town with back-to-back draws in clashes with Holland FC and FC Parson Drove.

And McConnell believes the fact that both he and the Melford squad were disappointed to have not taken maximum points from all three encounters is a sign of the early progress that has been made.

“Considering where things were when I came in we have to be happy with the start,” he said.

“In fact, we’re a bit frustrated with the fact that we’ve drawn the last two games against very good sides and that’s a sign of progression.

“The pleasing thing is that the boys are showing a bit of fight and they’ve now got some belief about them.

“The club had a tough season last year with the relegation and that spilled into the start of this season, but there now feels like there is a bit of momentum and when you’ve got that, you’ve always got a chance of winning.

“We know there’s still plenty of work to do and lots of improvements to make, but we’re competitive each week now and that’s a big thing.”

Melford’s focus will now switch to the FA Vase on Saturday when they host Cockfosters (3pm).

And with their opponents plying their trade one level higher in the Spartan South Midlands Football League Premier Division, McConnell is hoping that his team can make the most of playing without expectation.

“I don’t know a lot about them but they’re a level above so we know it’s going to be a tough game,” added McConnell.

“We’ve got Olly Hughes back, which is huge, and all of the pressure will be on them as the higher-league team.

“Anything can happen in a cup game and it’s usually about who turns up on the day.

“Why can’t we have a cup run? There’s no pressure on us, so hopefully we can go out and enjoy it.”

After facing Cockfosters, Melford will host Haverhill Borough in the league on Wednesday (7.45pm).