Beccles will be hoping to keep their hold on top spot in the Anglian Combination Division One table when they entertain North Walsham Town tomorrow.

Town go into the match on the back of a thrilling 3-2 win at Loddon United.

On a small and hard pitch, Loddon made their agenda clear from the off with a succession of long throws and crosses into the box which caused the Beccles defence problems. On more than one occasion the powerful forward was able to create half chances but Cable and his rearguard stood strong.

After 15 minutes Beccles began to exert themselves within the game and created opportunities. Davies found space and crossed for Hurren who dragged his shot, and shortly after Bailey tested the keeper with a strong drive.

On 35 minutes the breakthrough came and it was Beccles who grabbed it. From Mutimer’s flighted free kick, Heaney rose the highest to glance a header home for a half-time lead.

Beccles started the second half the stronger of the teams and took just five minutes to extend their lead. Good work down the left by Pluck and Udell set Bailey away and he outpaced his marker before scoring.

Beccles seemed in complete control whilst creating a few half chances when on 78 minutes a young Loddon player sustained a nasty bang to the head when bravely blocking a Mutimer shot.

An ambulance was called which delayed play for 30 minutes. Luckily the player recovered and was able to walk off the pitch with assistance.

Following the re-start, Loddon almost instantly made it 2-1. A ball into the box was not dealt with and a defender was tapped in.

The revival was short-lived as Davies extended Beccles’ lead on 80 minutes with another excellent strike.

The forward advanced on goal before driving the ball low past the keeper from 20 yards.

On 85 minutes Loddon scored again to make the score 2-3 and set up a tight final few minutes, but Beccles were able to close the game out and secure all three points.