HARWICH and Parkeston were beaten 4-2 at home by Holland FC in Thurlow Nunn first division north, writes TERRY FRANCIS.

The Shrimpers were again facing the prospect of a heavy defeat when they were 4-0 down at half-time in a local derby against an impressive Holland FC whose eventual victory took them to third place in the league table.

However, Harwich put up a much better second-half performance, to reduce the deficit.

Holland scored early on with a 20-yard free-kick into the top corner of the net, which gave goalkeeper Brad Cook no chance.

Harwich came back with Luke Mayhew breaking through the visitors defence and Liam White's shot going just wide.

Harry Miller also had a chance but could not find the target.

The Shrimpers were undone when poor defending saw Holland score their second goal and things became even worse with the visitors netting a third from the penalty spot.

Holland's fourth goal was the best seen on the Oak this season with an attacker cutting in to net with a shot that nestled in the top corner of the net.

Holland's goals had been scored by midfield general captain Deft Cunningham, Ben Dixon, Darren Mills and Zack Elesidy.

Shrimpers boss Sean Tynan's response was to switch to a more attacking formation, bringing on substitutes Jamie Eades and Matt Geen.

The result seemed to be less pressure on the home defence and with the Shrimpers now combining well, a cutting edge to their attacks.

Harwich reduced the arrears with a typically well-directed corner by skipper Gareth Heath, which was perfectly headed home by Dan Keeble.

There was more joy for Harwich when a clever move started by Heath resulted in a clearance which was pounced upon by Jamie Beecham, who netted with a well-placed shot.

Harwich man of the match was Gareth Heath who did well when his team were up against in the first half and played a major part in restoring confidence after the break.

Tomorrow (Saturday) Harwich make the long trip to meet Peterborough FC.