Lakenheath keep it in the family during Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division win over Sheringham

On the face of it, Lakenheath’s home clash with Sheringham on Saturday ended in a routine 3-0 victory.

However, it was the identity of the three goalscorers that made it an afternoon to remember for one particular family.

Brothers Valter and Carlos Rocha netted a goal apiece to put the hosting Greens in control of the encounter before the latter’s son – 17-year-old Gelson – came off the bench to complete the scoring.

The attacking trio have all linked up with ‘Heath from fellow Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division side Downham Town over the last couple of months – and they have played a key role in the recent upturn in results. Prior to last night’s 2-0 defeat at Cornard United, Lakenheath had collected 13 points from the previous 15 on offer.

Boss Steve Holder said: “Goalscorers are what win you games. Every team needs them and now we have a few options that can contribute goals, but also we’ve got a lot of pace as well.

“We’d been lacking some quality going forward but after we got Valter in that changed. Carlos came a bit later and then Gelson has come in. He’s got a lot of potential and he’s definitely one for the future.

“With those three coming in – plus having Dean Grogan available and Matt Hayden starting to weigh in with goals as well – it all feels like it’s coming together.”

As it stands, Holder has still not officially been confirmed as Lakenheath’s permanent manager.

He took interim charge back in September following the departure of Trevor Collins, but after some recent positive conversations and with more talks planned, Holder is expecting a long-term decision to be reached over the coming weeks.

He added: “We had a chat at Christmas and the club seem to be positive about it – they can see the improvements that are being made.

“It’s taken some time to get the group together but now the results are coming. We’re building a good side and the club is happy with how’s it going.

“We’ll sit down again over the coming weeks and make a decision from there, but right now I’m enjoying it.”

Sixteenth-placed Lakenheath will head to Fakenham Town on Saturday (3pm).