A LAST-MINUTE goal denied Harwich and Parkeston a point in their Thurlow Nunn League division one north opener, writes TERRY FRANCIS.

The Shrimpers were beaten 4-3 by Cornard United, at the Gwinnell & Sons Royal Oak.

Cornard got off to a flying start with a well-taken goal from former Shrimper Charlie Lindoe.

United were the better team in the first 30 minutes and they increased their lead through Jack Graham.

Credit to Harwich as they fought back with Joe Knight reducing the arrears with a shot through a crowded goalmouth.

Matt Geen, who is in great form, then rounded the goalkeeper to score the Shrimpers equaliser before half-time.

The match was proving a thriller for the crowd and in the third quarter of the game, Geen scored his second excellent goal by hammering home his shot from the edge of the penalty area.

Substitute Sabini levelled the scores for Cornard and as in the early stages Harwich again struggled to contain United's speedy attackers.

With Cornard squandering chances from two free-kicks in dangerous positions, it seemed that Harwich would hold out for a draw.

But there was heartbreak for them when Scott Sloats scored United's injury-time winner.

On Saturday Harwich travel to meet Swaffham, who were relegated from the premier division, whilst the Reserves entertain Tiptree Heath at the Gwinnell & Sons Royal Oak, kick-off 3pm.