Fine performance but Harwich just edged out of Essex Senior Cup

Without their leading goalscorer Jordan Heath and up against formidable oppostion in Takerley, who are undefeated in the league and FA Cup and Vase, Harwich decided to play 5 in midfield. This proved effective with the Shrimpers still giving the Takerley defence problems. First Bradley Westley's cross was headed just over by Jake Kioussis. In the 28th minute Harwich had their best chance when the hard working Shaun Gunn, ploughing a lone furrow leading the attack, broke clean through but goalkeeper Yates managed to dive and divert his shot for a corner. The Shrimpers were enjoying a good spell with Ryan Heath unfortunately scuffing his shot after Shaun Mathurian's pass had split the home defence wide open. The strong Harwich defence was containing Takerley's attack and when Bryn Thorpe tried a long shot Shrimpers keeper Sam Felgate dived to save at the foot of the post.
Harwich continued to find each other well in the second half as they held their own. In the 72nd minute Takerley worked their first clear cut chance and the Essex Senior League leading scorer Stuart Zanone headed them into the lead at the far post. The Shrimpers were undetered and showed fighting spirit with Luke Barnard coming on to join Gunn in attack. For Harwich Michael Hammond headed just over the bar and at the other end Shaun Kioussis made a terrific last second tackle when Zanone seemed certain to score.
Harwich exited the Cup but left their Management Team with a lot of positives to be pleased with.