With six changes in their line-up from the team which started in their excellent performance at Frenford, Harwich gave a spirited display against Basildon United, who had beaten the Shrimpers 4-0 on their own patch in a recent Essex Senior League fixture.
On a dull, cold evening, in front of reduced crowd of hardy Shrimpers supporters, it was apparent from the kick-off that the Harwich players were up for the challenge.
The Harwich camp thought that they had scored when Alfie Canning cut in to net but, in a close call, the assistant referee flagged for an offside infringement.

Race night to help support injured striker

However, before half time, Canning featured again when his shot was beaten out to Alfie Eldridge (pictured), who hammered the Shrimpers into the lead.
The match continued to be a lively affair and early in the second half in-form midfield dynamo Eldridge scored his second goal when he cut inside from the edge of the penalty area to rocket the ball into the roof of the net.
It was a rousing showing from Harwich but they had to dig deep when Basildon came back strongly in the closing stages.

Sporting Bengal game switched to Oak

Regular Under-23s goalkeeper Jack Lines, playing his first competitive game for the first team since the 2021/22 season, pulled off three excellent saves to prevent the visitors from scoring.
A well-deserved victory for Harwich gave them their first cup success of the season, vindicating the decision of managers Matt Carmichael and Sean Tynan to make full use of their squad, whilst also keeping players fresh for the league campaign.
The Shrimpers are back in ESL action on Saturday when White Ensign are the visitors to the Royal Oak for a 3pm kick-off.
Harwich team: Jack Lines, Jeremiah Ajisafe, Lewis Wood, Tiwa Odufuye, David Ejakita, Rory Harman, Liam White, Josh Hawkins, Alfie Eldridge, Alfie Canning (capt) and Joe Knight. Substitutes: Omari Obwoya, Jenson Goode, Joe Wood, Charlie Canham (all used) and Louie Bloom (not used).

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