SAFFRON WALDEN 4 (R Chadwick, M Clarke, B Riches, 2) THETFORD TOWN 2 (T Smith, K Pask) SAFFRON Walden FC continued their unbeaten home run with a victory against Thetford Town in the Ridgeons League First Division on Saturday. Two second-half goals fr

SAFFRON WALDEN 4

(R Chadwick, M Clarke,

B Riches, 2)

THETFORD TOWN 2

(T Smith, K Pask)

SAFFRON Walden FC continued their unbeaten home run with a victory against Thetford Town in the Ridgeons League First Division on Saturday.

Two second-half goals from striker Ben Riches sealed the three points for the Bloods in a thrilling match that ended 4-2.

The home side overcame strong winds and torrential rain to put in a fine passing performance, which keeps them in fifth place in the league and within touching distance of the leaders.

Assistant coach John Butchart was pleased by his team's performance, but was concerned for their safety playing in such difficult conditions.

"As soon as the game kicked off it rained solidly for 90 minutes. It was a great atmosphere and a good match to watch for the spectators under our new stands, but the weather made it quite dangerous for the players.

"There were a lot of long sliding tackles and both Stuart Kingham and Richard Chadwick had to come off with injured ankles.

"Both the players are ok and should only be out for a week."

Richard Chadwick got the Bloods off to a good start with a goal after 21 minutes. From a Ryan Cannon cross, the unmarked Chadwick tapped the ball past Thetford keeper Huyler.

The visitors responded quickly and Smith's incisive run beat the off-side trap and he placed his shot to the left of advancing keeper Dave Pledger to level the scores.

Minutes later Thetford Town stunned the 200-strong crowd by taking the lead. Karl Pask's run was judged to be onside and he fired past the outstretched Pledger.

Shortly before half-time the injured Stuart Kingham was replaced by Mat Clarke and he made an immediate impact on the match. Paul Stokes' cross found the head of Clarke and his looping header went into the top corner to put the Bloods back on equal terms.

In the second half Walden maintained possession and some good link-up play between Ryan Cannon, Alex Riches and Paul Stokes set up Ben Riches for a simple tap in to put the home side back in front.

Three minutes later, Riches grabbed his second after a pass from Stokes set him free on goal.

Walden's were due to host Halstead Town in the First Division Knock-out Cup quarter final last night, (Wednesday).

Their next league game is at home to Tiptree United on Saturday.