Harwich & Parkeston stage grandstand finish to keep their dream alive

There were early chances at both ends with the most notable coming when Rangers keeper Anthony O’Riordan saved well when Jordan Heath was clean through. The Shrimpers took the lead in the 38th minute when Lee Johnson beat his marker before crossing for Robbie Marks to head home. O’Riordan was in terrific form and saved from Ryan Heath before halftime and then early in the second half twice from Jordan Heath and also Johnson. Arlesford eqaulised in the 67th minute when goalkeeper Scott Wass brought down Scott Yearley and he got up and scored from the penalty spot. Harwich were in trouble in the 75th minute when the unmarked Danny Price put Arlesford into the lead. With time running out, Harwich knew that even a draw would be not be good enough. Their hopes were rekindled in the 80th minute when Johnson crossed and Jordan Heath rocketed the ball into the net to put them on terms. In a wonderful finale, both teams went for victory with Arlesford hitting the post and Dan Alston inches wide from a free kick. Skipper Michael MacLachlan threaded a pass through a packed home defence for Marks to put a jubilant Shrimpers into the lead. Harwich had shown great character and determination to pull this game out of the fire and were on top of the world when with a few minutes remaining substitute Michael Palmer ran through to beat O’Riordan all ends up with his shot.
The Shrimpers face a nerve jangling finish and must win their three remaining matches, which include the two favourites for the title West Bergholt and Newbury Forest both of whom must drop points, but the manner of their last two victories will have given them great heart.