Little Oakley beat Harwich in dramatic penalty shoot out

Once again there was a enthusiastic big crowd for the latest local derby clash between the two teams. The first half was an end to end encounter with both teams having chances. Jordan Heath broke through for Harwich and tried to lob the advancing keeper but under pressure could not get enough height onf his effort. Sam Cripps also had a couple of half chances for the Shrimpers whilst the Acorns attackers also had their moments. With half time approaching Greg Rodger broke the deadlock to give Little Oakley the lead and this time his lob was well placed over the advancing keeper Sam Felgate. After the break the Acorns were defending their lead and managed to keep the Shrimpers at bay until Kevin Coyle equalised with a superb free kick that found a gap in the defensive wall an rocketed into the far stanchion board at the back of the net. With normal time running out it looked that Harwich would win the game when Sean Bartlett headed them into the lead. However there was yet antoher twist in the last minute of injury time when following a corner, Harry Mann scored for Little Oakley to take the tie straight into a penalty shoot out . The Acorns opened up and the first 3 spot kick were perfect for both teams. Oakley scored again, then keeper Dan Joyce saved Harwich next kick and another Oakley conversion won the tie.