HARWICH and Parkeston manager Mike Wallace has praised the "professionalism, attitude and quality" of man-of-the-moment Sean Bartlett.

The striker is enjoying a rich vein of form and starred in Saturday's 3-0 victory against Hackney Wick, netting twice in the Thurlow Nunn League first division south contest at the Gwinnell & Sons Royal Oak.

He was then at it again on Tuesday, playing a leading role as the Shrimpers sealed their place in this season's First Division Knockout Cup semi-finals.

In addition to slotting home a penalty in a 2-2 draw against Lopes Tavares, he converted from the spot as the tie went to a shoot-out and Harwich won 5-4.

"Sean's been an absolute credit to the club this season and deserves the rewards he's getting, in terms of his goals," said a delighted Wallace, whose side could now face a last-four tussle against neighbours and rivals Little Oakley.

"I think the only position he's not played in has been goalkeeper.

"He's moved around and filled in, covering a number of different roles.

"His professionalism both on and off the pitch is top drawer and never once has he complained.

"As long as he's helping the team, he's happy to play anywhere."

Wallace also hailed Bartlett's loyalty, revealing that the striker has had opportunities to leave the Shrimpers.

"I know a number of clubs with bigger budgets and better resources have been contacting him," said the Harwich boss, whose side are without a game on Saturday.

"However, Sean has been true to his word and stayed with us - something I'm grateful for.

"We're lucky to have a player with his attitude and quality and I hope we have him here for a long time."

Dan Clark was also on target in Saturday's convincing victory against Hackney Wick while Jake Plane notched the other goal against Lopes Tavares.

The quarter-final tie went straight to penalties after finishing 2-2 after 90 minutes.

The Shrimpers netted four of their five spot-kicks through Bartlett, Clark, Plane and substitute Lewis Blanchett.

Lopes Tavares converted their first three attempts before Harwich man-of-the-match, goalkeeper Sam Felgate pulled off two great saves to make it 5-4.

"We weren't at our best and were on our last legs towards the end," added Wallace.

"Lopes play with so much pace and really put us under pressure.

"But the boys defended for their lives and I was so proud.

"They put in such a shift and the outcome of the shoot-out was a reward for their efforts."

Wallace's men now play the winners of the Oakley-White Ensign tie, which is due to take place at the Acorns' Memorial Ground next Tuesday (April 11), kicking-off at 7.45pm.

Harwich's next Thurlow Nunn League fixture is at home to Wivenhoe Town on February 15.