Report by Colin Rogers and Terry Francis
Harwich made a strong start in the 4th minute when Alfie Canning's shot hit the crossbar and Liam White's follow-up shot was also denied, this time bringing a fine save from Swaffham goalkeeper Josh Malin, who dived full length to turn the ball around the post.
The Shrimpers remained on top and took the lead in the 20th minute when Gareth Heath's pin-point corner was headed home by Louie Bloom (pictured).
Harwich threatened again, Harry Tuck firing over an inviting cross with Bloom just unable to make the necessary clean contact and half time arrived with the Shrimpers leading but just by a single goal.
Swaffham have slipped to the foot of the league table and their strategy for this match was to concentrate on defence in an effort to frustrate Harwich and grab a result.
Soon after the restart, Bloom had a one-on-one but could not get the required power on his shot and Malin was able to make a comfortable save.
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From the kick off, Liam Riley had been a livewire in midfield for Harwich and he did the spade work for the Shrimpers' second goal with his final cross being chested into the net by the well-placed Bloom.
Brad Cook in the Harwich goal was enjoying a quiet afternoon with the Shrimpers dominating the match.
The hosts' third goal was scored midway through the second half when Danny Garrad was fouled and he got up to power his penalty kick down the centre of the goal with Malin diving to the post.
When the afternoon's results came through, league leaders Haverhill Rovers had lost their first match of the season. This opens up an opportunity for the Shrimpers as on Tuesday night they visit Haverhill Borough and then on Saturday travel to take on Rovers.
Harwich team: Brad Cook, Keelan Milburn, Jack Wood, Brad James, Harry Tuck, Alfie Smith, Gareth Heath (capt), Liam Riley, Liam White, Alfie Canning and Louie Bloom. Used substitutes: Danny Garrad, Joe Knight, Idreess Namisi and Alfie Eldridge.