Harwich celebrate Luke Barnard's goal, which followed a clever run by Tyler Rose Pictures: Chris Smith

by TERRY FRANCIS

FELIXSTOWE AND

WALTON UNITED RESERVES 3

HARWICH AND PARKESTON 2

Thurlow Nunn League First

Division Knockout Cup second round

IT was a frustrating evening for Harwich as they exited the League Cup in a match they had every chance of winning.

Felixstowe are currently bottom of the league's north division but had their first victory on Saturday and were cock-a-hoop to win this match.

Harwich were on top at the start and home keeper Joe Potter did well to save Joe Knight's fierce shot and later Tyler Rose fired over when well placed.

It was just not happening for Harwich as they failed to press home their advantage and, in the 32nd minute, they paid the price when their defence was caught out, with Josh Lee heading home a simple chance from a cross.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Five minutes into the second half, Harwich at last found their cutting edge with Luke Barnard slotting in their equaliser.

Harwich looked to be on track for victory soon after when a mix-up in the Felixstowe defence found Kevin Coyle on hand to tap the ball home and give the Shrimpers the lead.

With Felixstowe on the ropes, Harwich failed to take the opportunity to sew things up and then gave away a goal themselves by allowing Conner Field the chance to lob the ball over out-of-position keeper Sam Felgate.

During the match, Felixstowe had few chances but showed how to take them with Jordan Matthews putting them in front.

It was desperation now for Harwich in the closing stages and they were left to rue what might have been.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard: