Thetford Town 1 Swaffham Town 0

Ten-man Thetford Town edged closer to their promotion goal with their fourth win of the season over neighbours Swaffham.

After three victories at Shoemakers Lane this was the closest match of the series to date with the only goal coming from Matt Dixon early in the second half.

This was a test of their character as Swaffham – despite being with the injured Alex Vincent as well as key defensive players Nathan Cross, Dwayne and Daren Hockton – pushed Thetford every step of the way.

And it became even more of a challenge when Steve Harley – who had forced Dean Mayes into making one spectacular tip over the bar – was dismissed after picking up two yellow cards in the first quarter of the game.

Town had early efforts from Bruno Tavares but could not find a way through the Swaffham defence.

Will O’Brien and Toby Hilliard both threatened early on for Swaffham before Joe Jackson set up a chance for Robbie Howling, forcing a good save from Ian Fancett.

Howling was also involved with O’Brien and Hilliard to set up a chance which the latter volleyed narrowly wide. Jackson was unlucky two minutes into the second half when he latched onto a Jack Redhead through-ball and fired a shot into the side netting.

But the only goal came at the other end in the 48th minute – a free-kick from the left hand edge of the Swaffham box, missed by two defenders and leaving Mayes unsighted as Dixon collected perhaps the easiest of his 28 Ridgeoens League goals this season.

Redhead, O’Brien and Hilliard all had opportunities to equalise but were unable to hit the target while Mayes was forced to make two great saves to keep the game close. With five minutes to go, Jackson went clear but shot hight and wide.

The result leaves Thetford needmg six points from their final five games to be certain of promotion. Only goal difference separates them from title rivals Godmanchester.

Thetford go to Brightlingsea on Saturday (3pm) before entertaining Team Bury on Monday (3pm). Thetford Reserves host Needham Market on Monday (3pm).

Swaffham host Whitton on Saturday (3pm) before travelling to Fakenham on Easter Monday (11am). Tomorrow, Swaffham A play Walsingham in the Fen Regis Invitation Shield (7.30pm). On Saturday the reserves travel to Blofield Reserves (2.30pm).

Swaffham Tare looking for a new A team manager for next season. Contact Ray Ewart on 07990 526744 or at rayewart@aol.com