Get in there: Jordan Heath (sliding on his knees) is about to be mobbed by his Harwich team-mates after scoring against Hashtag United Picture: Chris Smith

by TERRY FRANCIS

HARWICH AND PARKESTON 2

HASHTAG UNITED 1

Thurlow Nunn League

division one south

IT was a special day for Harwich as they ended Hashtag's 14-match undefeated run in front of a crowd of 351 supporters.

The bumper crowd created a cup-tie atmosphere that brought back memories of the good old days at the Royal Oak.

With some of the crowd still coming through the turnstile, Harwich took an early lead when, from out wide near the left-hand byline, Ryan Heath angled a fierce shot across goal which keeper Cade-Watts could only touch on its way into the corner of the net.

Hashtag came back but, in the 38th minute, Jordan Heath increased the Shrimpers' lead with an opportunist shot that went in off the post.

Ryan Adams reduced the arrears for Hashtag when he stabbed the ball into the net to set up a second-half thriller.

After the break, Hashtag bombarded the Harwich penalty area and the Shrimpers defended heroically to keep them out.

Harwich keeper Sam Felgate distinguished himself with a super save when a shot bounced up in front of him and he managed to tip the ball over the crossbar.

On the heavy pitch, Harwich used long clearances to set up raids but the visitors' defence was impressive.

The closing stages were nailbiting but Harwich were holding their own and saw out a battling victory to the delight of their supporters and proud, ecstatic management duo Kieran Shelley and Michael Wallace.

Harwich's first team, who are now up to fifth position in the league, have no fixture on Saturday.

The reserves lost 2-0 to Oyster but will be hoping for a victory when they entertain bottom club Hedinghams at the Royal Oak (kick-off 2pm).