HARWICH and Parkeston were beaten 2-1 at Haverhill Borough in their latest Thurlow Nunn League first division south match, writes TERRY FRANCIS.

The Shrimpers were beaten by the division's bottom team on the New Croft artificial G3 pitch, on a bitterly cold afternoon.

Harwich were on top from the start and they had their first chance in the third minute when Jordan Heath shot over when through.

The Borough goalkeeper was kept busy making diving saves from Rob Pratt and Jordan Heath at the expense of corner kicks.

Midfielder Steve Polley got into scoring positions for Harwich but could not find the net.

The Shrimpers' best effort came when Alfie Smith's fierce drive rocketed against the post, with the goalkeeper beaten.

Even though Harwich were so on top, a goal can turn a match.

And there was a warning just before half-time when Shrimpers keeper Brad Cook had to make a diving save, followed seconds later by a defender forced to block on the goal line.

Harwich fell behind in the 60th minute, against the run of play.

A smart breakaway caught the Harwich defence out and Callum Stone beat the advancing Cook to give a jubilant Haverhill the lead.

Things got worse for Harwich 15 minutes later as they lost concentration and shape, leaving Stone to score his second goal in similar fashion.

Signs of desperation crept in the Harwich ranks now but they were steadied by the introduction of substitute Mark Palmer to mount a final effort.

Heath's shot reduced the arrears to give Harwich hopes of salvaging an important point.

During the match Harwich had won free-kicks in dangerous positions but each time had failed to take advantage, allowing the Borough defensive wall to make blocks.

Now in the very last minute the Shrimpers had one more such chance and at last produced a good effort, with substitute Jake Kioussis's kick going agonisingly inches wide.

It was a frustrating day for Harwich but they are still nine points clear of the relegation places.

They travel to Tilbury on Saturday to meet bottom club Brimsdown and will be determined not to slip up again.

Harwich Reserves entertain Tiptree Jobserve at the Royal Oak, kick-off 2.30pm.