Harwich dreams of League Cup Final shattered as they lose to Little Oakley

The pitch was in excellent condition despite the recent bad weather, thanks to the hard work of the Shrimpers ground staff and once again the local derby attracted a big crowd, this time the match being played under floodlights. Little Oakley are in great form, well on course for promotion whilst mid table Harwich have not been at their best in their last two fixtures. Harwich defended well during a goaless first half and there was all to play for after the interval. However the second half was only 5 minutes old when Gregg Rodger's shot rebounded and the alert Luke Mayhew gave Little Oalkley the lead. Harwich cause was not helped when they had Ryan McGibbon sent off and in the 60th minute the Shrimpers defence was outpaced for Rodger to cut his shot into the net for the Acorns second goal. Adam Hampson made a good run for Harwich but could not get enough power in his shot to trouble Joyce in the Oakley goal. Little Oakley were playing really well now and with their supporters roaring them on Harry Mann scored their third goal with a spectacular shot from outside the penalty area that had Shrimpers keeper Sam Felgate rooted to the spot. The Acorns 4th goal involved their set piece specialists with Sean Koussis free kick being powerfully headed into the net by Lewis Wood. Harwich were struggling and in the closing stages Felgate made a great double save but before the final whistle subsitute Tom Dunningham added the Acorns 5th goal.
An excellent performance from the jubilant Little Oakley players and we wish them well in the Cup Final against March Town United.