HARWICH and Parkeston beat Swaffham Town 3-0 at the Gwinnell & Sons Royal Oak, writes TERRY FRANCIS.

After two narrow defeats, the Shrimpers are back on track after winning the first of three big matches within eight days, as they look to get back in contention at the top of Thurlow Nunn League first division north.

Harwich made a strong start in the fourth minute when Alfie Canning's shot hit the crossbar and Liam White's follow-up effort was also denied, this time bringing a fine save from Swaffham goalkeeper Josh Malin.

The Shrimpers remained on top and took a 20th-minute lead when Gareth Heath's pin-point corner was headed home by Louie Bloom.

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 by just a single goal.

Swaffham have slipped to the foot of the league table and their strategy for this match was to concentrate on defence and frustrate Harwich in an effort to grab a result.

Soon after the restart Bloom had a one on one chance but could not get the required power on his shot and Malin was able to make a comfortable save.

From the kick-off, Liam Riley had been a livewire in the Harwich midfield 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.

The hosts' third goal was scored midway through the second half when Danny Garrad was fouled and got up to power his penalty kick down the centre, with Malin diving to the post.

Harwich visit leaders Haverhill Rovers on Saturday.