MARCH Town United suffered a dispiriting 3-0 home defeat at the hands of Long Melford in a game marred by a serious injury to Sam Darlow.

The Hares were able to field a strong side against a team they had thumped 4-0 only two weeks ago but they could not handle their determined opponents who are battling to avoid relegation.

Play was halted for 25 minutes so Darlow could receive treatment after he dislocated his elbow.

He spent most of the night in hospital and will be forced to wear a cast for six weeks.

The result leaves March Town United 12th in the Thurlow Nunn League First Division.

Manager Paul Crosbie will hope for a good response from his team when they travel to Stowmarket Town on Saturday.