Harwich's excellent home form continues with narrow win

Harwich secured 3 vital points in a tight contest against an organised Halstead outfit but probably should have won by a greater margin. After losing last week the boys new the importance of starting the match on the front foot and duly took the game to Halstead and the early signs were there that Jerome and Lex were going to cause the Halstead defence problems but it took until mid way through the first half when a thumping goal kick from George was misjudge allowing Jerome to sprint through on goal and calmly finish to break the deadlock. This rocked Halstead and Harwich went in search of further goals with Lex and Jerome going close on several occasions. Then as half-time approached Lex thumped an indirect free kick goalwards which the keeper parried into the net allowing the goal to stand and give Harwich a well deserved lead.

Half time

Harwich 2 - 0 Halstead

The expected Halstead onslaught didn't materialise in the second half although they looked dangerous on the counter attack and it was Harwich who failed to convert several chances before Halstead hit back with 15 minutes remaining when the ball wasn't properly cleared following a scramble in the box. George then produced a decent save and Jenson made a great challenge as the centre forward was ready to pull the trigger. Harwich who looked in full control for most of the match were under pressure as Halstead went in search of a late equaliser but Harwich held firm and it would have been a travesty had they not taken the 3 points.

Result

Harwich 2 - 1 Halstead

Good performances across the pitch with the back four in front of George all looked solid and compact. Jenson sacrificed his natural game in a CDM role and Lex and Jerome were full of running but Man of the Match was awarded to Ryan for his normal all action display.