After some early Clacton pressure Melford almost took the lead after six minutes, the dazzling skills of Delves taking him past several defenders before releasing Potter who screwed his shot wide.

After 16 minutes Melford went ahead, when a dreadful back pass from Springett was seized upon by Potter who took his time and placed his shot wide of ex-Melford keeper Rulton.

In an entertaining game both teams attempted to play football, with Sean Hillier having his effort blocked in the Melford box. At the other end Grindrod fired narrowly over the bar from a free kick.

A second costly defensive lapse by Clacton came four minutes from half-time, Rulton putting his goalkick straight to Potter who, with some excellent shielding and ball control, eventually squared for Chisholm to rifle home

After the break the visitors put pressure on the Melford goal, with Oldhamstead sending his shot just wide of the upright.

Then Bull blasted in a free kick which was deflected and the agile Rulton just tipped the ball over.

On 52 minutes Melford forged further ahead. This time defender Taylor lost control of the ball, the ever alert Potter gained possession and took the ball round Rulton, netting from close range.

A quick reponse came from Clacton. A corner was swung into the box, evading the Melford defence, and Dan Smith's diving header reduced the arrears.

Melford responded swiftly, Bull heading on a clearance for Potter to outpace the defence and crack the ball past Rulton for a deserved hat-trick.

This produced some urgency in Clacton, and Croll made point-blank saves from Sean Hiller and Gibson to preserve the lead.

The pressure paid off on 82 minutes when Andrade ran at the Melford defence, ghosting past three players to score a fine individual goal.

Long Melford: Croll, Durell, Grimster, Chisholm, Adams, Crissell, Delves (Perry 82), Statham, Bull (Daw 72), Potter, Grindrod (Ben Simpson 68). Subs (not used): Liam Cutts, Arron.