Harwich's first scoring chance came in the 27th minute when impressive full debutant Tobi Dehinsilu set up Joe Knight, playing his match of the new season. However, his effort, under pressure, went just wide. Knight (pictured) had been tackled from behind but his appeals for a penalty kick were turned down.
Eleven minutes later, for the second match in succession, Harwich were reduced to 10 men when Oakley McNair was controversially sent off for a tackle.
McNair had been doing well in his midfield role but, despite losing him, Harwich continued to match their opponents and did have the ball in the net for a goal that was ruled offside.
Ten minutes into the second half, Harwich won a corner kick and, from Knight's close range shot, Romford goalkeeper George Sapsford made an excellent diving save.

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Harwich central defenders, captain Charlie Canham and Lewis Wood, were a dominant partnership and when called upon, goalkeeper Will Healy also gave a sound performance.
Harwich had a couple more chances before the final whistle, with Sapsford saving well from Liam White and fellow substitute Leo Carty being marginally offside when put through from Knight's headed pass.
In the penalty shoot-out, Sapsford was Romford's hero, saving three of the Shrimpers' spot kicks to take his team through to the second round by a 3-1 margin.
Despite the defeat, it had been a heartening display from Harwich, with plenty of positives to take forward.
Harwich team: Will Healy, Jeremiah Ajisafe, Charlie Canham (captain), Lewis Wood, Jack Cosby, Jenson Goode, Oakley McNair, Tobi Dehinsilu, Louie Bloom, Joe Wood and Joe Knight. Substitutes used: Liam White and Leo Carty.