Thetford Town fell to defeat by a solitary goal to runaway league leaders Histon on Saturday - for the second time in four weeks.

With a gusty wind blowing in off the Fens and a boggy, wet pitch also making it difficult for the players the game was scrappy and virtually devoid of moments of quality.

For large periods Thetford, who conceded a late goal to lose the reverse fixture 2-1, were more than a match for their opponents despite being reduced to 10 men in the 63rd minute.

At full time Thetford boss Danny White marched on to the pitch, seeking an explanation from referee Anthony Crofts. It is rare to see White confront the officials at full-time but he was clearly annoyed that his captain Elliot Smith had been dismissed for two bookable offences while Histon escaped similar punishment for a succession of fouls of similar nature.

Town had arguably the better of the first half chances and three times within the first 18 minutes they came close to going in front. The best fell to Valter Rocha who broke clear but from the edge of the box his attempt to lob the goalkeeper lacked the required elevation and it was an easy save for Sam Roach.

In the second period Histon gradually started to apply sustained pressure. They play a direct style, hugely successful this season, but not easy on the eye. There wwew moments of panic but generally Thetford’s defence dealt well with a succession of long throws and set pieces delivered in and around their six yard box.

It took a fast break from Histon to break the deadlock.

In the 77th minute, Town had committed men forward for a free-kick which Rocha fired straight at Roach. His quick throw found Ed Rolph on halfway who quickly released Salim Relizani in the inside left channel. The substitute, who had been on the pitch for just two minutes, cut inside and drilled a low finish into the bottom right hand corner in what was a rare moment of quality.

Next up for The Brecklanders is a home game this Saturday against Stowmarket Town (3pm).

Thetford: Viner, Morton, Carver, Smith (C), S.Bond, Castro, Priddle, Sandell, Gibson, Hutt (R.Bailey), V.Rocha

On Tuesday, April 30 Town will be travelling to Carrow Road to play Dereham Town in the Norfolk Senior Cup Final. A bus is travelling from the ground, leaving at 6.15pm. Cost is £8 with match tickets available on the gate priced at £7 for adults and £4 for concessions. For more information contact Trev Coleman on 07871807922.