SUNDAY SHRIMPERS 3

AFC COLCHESTER 1

Colchester and District Sunday League division one

SHRIMPERS kept their title dreams alive with a crucial victory against league leaders AFC Colchester.

Colchester were playing their last game of the season.

Shrimpers, on the other hand, still have four fixtures left and need five points to secure top spot.

Colchester were quick out of the blocks and took a seventh-minute lead through Cripps.

The Shrimpers had to stage a fightback and, midway through the half, they were rewarded.

Lewis Wood’s clever header provided Michael Palmer with the opportunity to equalise, with an excellent finish.

The hosts were looking strong now and it was proving an exciting clash.

Palmer was man-of-the-match and he gave the Shrimpers a second-half lead with a cool finish.

Colchester were still dangerous and Shrimpers keeper Sam Jewell pulled off a stunning diving save to keep out Jake Bethell’s low shot.

Substitute Daryl Elmer then made a telling contribution when he was brought down following a powerful run and Jake Koussis made the game safe with a clinical penalty.

On Sunday, the Shrimpers play in the Fowler Memorial Cup final against top premier division opponents Corecalona, at Lawford Lads’ ground.

Kick-off is at 10.30am.