WEST BERGHOLT 1

HARWICH AND PARKESTON 3

Essex and Suffolk Border League premier division

THIS was an encouraging victory for Harwich, against opponents who are in the hunt for the league title.

The Shrimpers welcomed back skipper Michael Murray, this time in a midfield role.

Bergholt started strongly, with Jack Harrington going close and Liam Springett forcing goalkeeper Sam Felgate to save well.

Harwich replied with keeper Luke Bethell saving Sam Thompson's shot at the expense of a corner.

This resulted in Matt Geen giving the Shrimpers the lead with an excellent angled shot in the tenth minute.

Next the Harwich defenders had to be alert with Jake Bethell's shot being cleared off the line. Harwich were creating chances, with Thompson setting up Geen, whose effort was tipped over by Bethell, and later Luke Barnard shooting narrowly wide.

In the 30th minute, Barnard drew the home defence out for Geen to lay the ball to Murray, who netted the Shrimpers' second goal with another fine finish.

Three minutes into the second half, Harrington reduced the arrears for Bergholt.

Harwich defended well and it was particularly pleasing to see how the younger Shrimpers players have developed to withstand Bergholt's strong physical approach.

Harwich weathered the storm set up by Bergholt and in the 90th minute Barnard was fouled before converting the penalty to give his side a two-goal cushion.

There were then seven minutes of extra time for Harwich to see out.

Tomorrow, Harwich entertain Hatfield Peverel at the Royal Oak (kick-off 2.30pm).