HARWICH and Parkeston slipped to a 2-1 defeat at Park View, in their latest Thurlow Nunn League first division south, writes TERRY FRANCIS.

It was a disappointment for the Shrimpers who controlled the first half, held the lead and looked to be on their way to their first victory of the season.

Harwich started well on the G3 all-weather pitch, set in the centre of a large athletics stadium in White Hart Lane, North London.

Jake Kioussis made a penetrating run and with neat footwork created a scoring chance but was denied by a good save.

The Shrimpers midfielder's partnership with left-back Reece Harte was working well and in the 34th minute, Harte sent over a perfect cross to the far post where Rob Good ghosted in to shoot Harwich into the lead.

The Shrimpers had been playing well although in the closing stages of the half goalkeeper Brad Cook was forced to come out and make a smart block.

At this stage it looked a very winnable match for Harwich and they had an early chance to increase their lead after the break when Harte sent in another great cross but Good was unable to get his head on the ball.

In the the 50th minute, out of the blue, Park View equalised with a superb shot from outside the penalty area which curled into the corner of the net giving the diving Cook no chance.

It was as though a switch had been flicked in the Park View team and now looking a better outfit.

Within ten minutes the hosts took the lead when Harwich were caught short of defenders leaving the home side to work the ball through for a simple goal.

Shrimpers new manager Sean Tynan used his substitutes to try and rest the initiative back and Declan Kama did look as though he could engineer an equaliser.

However time ran out and Harwich were left to rue those ten minutes that changed the game.

Harwich face a tough task on Saturday when they visit Buckhurst Hill who with games in hand could catch the league leaders.

Shrimpers Reserves are at Tiptree Jobserve.