Soham Town Rangers manager Alex Cross chalks up fourth victory with Boxing Day triumph over neighbouring Ely City

Soham Town Rangers manager Alex Cross has praised his players for the ‘real determination’ that they showed during their 1-0 victory over rivals Ely City on Boxing Day.

A first-half goal from new signing Joe Greenslade-Cross – taking his tally to three in two appearances – was enough for the Greens to continue their positive form under the recently-appointed Cross, who has overseen four wins from his five fixtures at the helm.

And while the boss conceded that his side were not at their fluent best – particularly throughout the second half – he was keen to highlight the defensive solidity that helped to get them over the line in front of a crowd of more than 400 at Julius Martin Lane.

“I’m really pleased with the players and the effort that has gone in over the past two games is on another level,” he told the club’s website.

“(We’ve played on) two tough pitches at this time of year, which you’ve got to expect, so to score four goals and keep two clean sheets – I’m really chuffed.

“(We’ve picked up) 12 points from a possible 15 so I’m really happy. I’m really chuffed for everyone at the club.

“The players showed something (against Ely) that maybe they haven’t shown previously.

“There was a real determination to keep a clean sheet. Other than the chance in the first minute when the lad has put it over the bar, I can’t remember anything clear cut or anything Fin (Iron, goalkeeper) has had to do.

“Ely have had quite a bit territory and they’ve made us defend, but we were really good and we can take that on going forward.”

Tenth-placed Soham, who ran out 3-0 winners away at Downham Town the previous weekend, will return to action on Saturday when they cross over the Suffolk border to face Brantham Athletic.

Meanwhile, Guy Habbin’s out-of-form Ely (17th) will aim to halt a 10-game winless run in all competitions when they host bottom-of-the-table Long Melford on the same day (both 3pm).