Pleasing performance from Harwich against Benfleet

There was an even start to the match but it was Harwich who struck first in the 28th minute when the visitors defenders blocked Jordan Heath's first effort but the Shrimpers leading scorer, ever alert, followed up to give his team the lead. Shaun Gunn and Jordan Heath combined well but Heath's shot went just wide. Harwich goalkeeper Sam Felgate made two good saves to keep out Benfleet and at the other end keeper Florent Gislet was also impressive. Harwich were caught out in the 65th minute failing to deal with a ball through the middle of their defence and Rob Lacey ran on to put the ball over the head of the advancing Felgate for Benfleet's equaliser. A great through ball from Jordan Heath set up Gunn but he couldn't get a good connection on his shot. Things were hotting up as both teams looked to get on top and a heavy tackle and flare up resulted in Jake Kioussis from Harwich and Benfleet's Lewis Hunt receiving red cards. Once again Jordan Heath's clever pass gave Gunn a chance and this time his finish was excellent as he beat two defenders before shooting Harwich back into the leadwith 76 minutes gone. The excitment was not over, the ball spinning up at Felgate who managed to push it forward for Brad Westley to clear. With a difficualt 5 minutes remaining Harwich missed two good chances to make the game safe but were still in front at the final whistle.