Pictures reproduced with kind permission of Chris Smith

by TERRY FRANCIS

HARWICH AND PARKESTON 1

MAY AND BAKER 0

Thurlow Nunn League

division one south

THE excitement is growing as Harwich maintained their challenge for honours with an 11th consecutive victory.

This one was particularly important as it was gained against May and Baker, who are one of the other sides in contention.

Although the Shrimpers held their advantage, the visitors were desperately trying to salvage a draw at the close.

There was a good atmosphere at the start with a crowd of 217 and both teams tried to gain control of the midfield.

May and Baker had dangerous attackers in Reece Tranter and Bsmir Hoxhaj but Harwich's defence was impressive and did not allow them a clear sight of goal.

The Shrimpers also found that the visitors' rearguard was difficult to pierce but, with half-time approaching, they made a vital breakthrough to take the lead.

Tyler Rose's pace was decisive and he finished with a powerful shot that gave the keeper no chance.

In the second half, there was danger for Harwich but goalkeeper Sam Felgate ran to the far edge of the penalty area to clear.

It was an absorbing match and, with time running out, James Zanetti shot just inches wide for May and Baker.

Jordan Heath then saw his first shot blocked but reacted smartly and was close to making the game safe but his clever angled shot was just off target.

After the final whistle, Harwich's players and management team ran to their supporters to celebrate.

On Saturday, Harwich should have a good following when they travel to neighbours Wivenhoe Town (kick-off 3pm).

The reserves are at home at the Royal Oak against runaway leaders Gosfield United (2pm).

THURLOW NUNN LEAGUE

DIVISION ONE SOUTH

P W D L GD Pts

Hashtag United 25 17 4 4 31 55

White Ensign 22 16 2 4 32 50

Halstead Town 23 15 4 4 25 49

HARWICH & P 22 15 3 4 25 48

May & Baker 19 14 1 4 24 43

Hackney Wick 21 12 5 4 19 41

Frenford 22 11 4 7 12 37

LITTLE OAKLEY 24 10 7 7 -7 37

Coggeshall United 18 11 3 4 29 36

Holland 22 11 3 8 11 36

Benfleet 23 9 3 11 5 30

Wormley Rovers 22 8 5 9 5 29

Burnham Ramblers 23 7 4 12 -15 25

Wivenhoe Town 21 4 5 12 -26 17

Braintree Town Res 24 4 4 16 -38 16

Brightlingsea Regent Res 22 4 2 16 -14 14

Lopes Tavares 21 2 6 13 -33 12

Fire United 24 3 2 19 -47 11

Newbury Forest 22 2 3 17 -38 9