Joy for Harwich as they win in the FA Cup

Harwich took a strong band of supporters with them, travelling in a double decker coach, on the trip to Ilford. There was a scare for Harwich in the first minute Walter Pedro Simoa's effort struck the post. The Shrimpers faced a strong wind during the first half but took the lead in the 6th minute when Nicky Palmer's cross was volleyed in by Kevin Coyle. Harwich looked dangerous in attack with Heath seeing his header saved by goalkeeper Hugo Rosetti. Ilford also had chances with Elliot Browne scuffing his shot and so Harwich maintained their 1-0 lead at half time. The Shrimpers crucial second goal came in the 52nd minute when Jamie Beecham put Heath through and he defltly lobbed the ball over Rosetti. Harwich were close to netting a third goal when Joe Knight took a frree kick and Rosetti managed to fumble out Sam Cripps header at the expense of a corner. Ilford reduced the lead in the 80th minute , winning a free kick on the halfway line from Harwich conceed a corner which resulted in Said Ali turning the ball into the net. Harwich remained on top though with Coyle going close to scoring again. Harwich last played in the Cup in 2009, losing to London Colney and their last victory was in 2007, also against Ilford. Our famous old club has reached the First Round Proper on 5 occassions and so it is great to be back in the Compettion.

Report by Carl Allen