HARWICH and Parkeston finished their Thurlow Nunn League first division north season on a winning note with a 2-1 victory over Parson Drove at the Gwinnell & Sons Royal Oak, writes TERRY FRANCIS.

The Shrimpers ended in seventh position, two places off the promotion play offs.

Harwich got off to a flying start to the match, scoring after only 28 seconds.

Shaun Kioussis' long ball found Alfie Canning and his pass allowed Dan Keeble to unleash a cross-shot that went over goalkeeper Chris Brazil's head and into the top corner.

Parson Drove came back with a good effort that went just wide and later their striker Jack Prentice's header produced a good save from Shrimpers goalkeeper Brad Cook, who tipped the ball over.

Twenty minutes had gone when Harwich next opportunity came from Gareth Heath's corner, where Danny Garrad headed just past the post.

Harwich increased their lead in the 28th minute when Reece Harte ball out of defence allowed Heath to thread a through pass to Luke Mayhew, who powered a shot into the net.

Parson Drove responded and Cook saved a certain goal by diving to turn the ball around the post. and then a minute before half time Drove again went close with a shot inches off target.

After the restart Parson Drove keeper Brazil was soon in action making a diving save from Mayhew's shot and later keeping out Garrad's effort at the expense of a corner.

Harwich had a great chance of a third goal when Heath's clever pass set up Joe Knight but his shot went over the crossbar.

Parson Drove reduced the arrears with 15 minutes remaining when Prentice out jumped the Shrimpers defence for his header to beat Cook.

Attacks were on top now with Harwich just unable to take advantage of two dangerous Heath corners whilst at the other end, Cook made an excellent diving save at the foot of the post.

Parson Drove were lively opponents and looking for an equaliser but Harwich contrived the best chance in the closing stages when Ben Sargeant set up a one on one chance for Knight only for his shot to go agonisingly just outside the post.

Harwich under-23s seek to renew their challenge for the runners-up spot in their league when they entertain Brantham Athletic 23s on Saturday, kick-off 3pm.

Woodbridge Town 23s are their visitors to the Gwinnell & Sons Royal Oak next Tuesday, kick-off 7.45pm.