Reed Hall 1 - 4 Harwich & Parkeston Blues Under 13's

Harwich were hoping to get back to winning ways after last week's first defeat of the season but with 5 call offs started the match with the bare 11 players and looking to avoid a potential upset against mid table Reed Hall. Kicking against a strong wind Harwich took control of the match from kick off creating several chances before Jerome latched onto a great through from Ryan to cut inside the centre back on the edge of the box and slot the ball into the bottom left corner after only 4 minutes.

Reed Hall rarely troubled the back four with full backs Thomas and LJ who was carrying an injury, putting in solid performances along side Max and George who are beginning to form a 'Bruce and Pallister' style partnership at the heart of the defence but Harwich committed the cardinal sin of not playing to the whistle when James took a heavy knock in midfield and the speedy Reed Hall winger capitalised by equalising mid way through the half.

With their tales up, Reed Hall pressed forward sensing that the game was for the taking and Harwich had to weather a 10 minute spell of pressure before a Jenson free kick found Max in space who drilled the ball into the net to restore the Harwich lead going into half time.

Half Time Reed Hall 1 - Harwich 2

The second half saw Harwich in the ascendancy using the wind to their advantage. Reed Hall elected to play a high line but failed to cope with Jerome's searing pace and only a succession of fine saves from the home keeper kept Harwich at bay. The tackles were flying in from both sides at times as the game simmered but the referee kept control and played a great advantage to allow Jenson now playing in a more advanced role to continue his run and extend the lead to 3-1.

Further drama followed when Harwich were down to 10 players following LJ's injury when a trip in the box saw Reed Hall awarded a penalty which was brilliantly saved by George in goal with the taker blazing the follow up over the bar.

Jenson completed the scoring towards the end of the match as Harwich completed their second 'double' of the season.

A tough encounter but Harwich coped well as the boys rolled their sleeves up and showed their battling qualities for the 3 points today in an entertaining match with a few looking to recover from their knocks before yet another away game next week against Alresford.

Good performances across the pitch today in the face of adversity. LJ soldiered on, under-rated Thomas solid as always, Max dominant in the air and Jerome, Jim and Ryan putting in the miles. Will and Kian did well on the flanks and George's handling in goal is improving each week alongside his excellent distribution. Jenson showed his usual touch of class but Big George was voted man of the match. George is a shining example to others of what results can be achieved from hard work and perseverance.

Full Time

Reed Hall 1 - 4 Harwich