MATCH REPORT BY JUSTIN ELLIS

Royal Oak | Attendance: 141

Bank Holiday weekend saw Hackney Wick make the trip to Harwich & Parkeston for their third game of the season, with both sides heading into the contest with one win and one defeat apiece. A wet summer afternoon at the Royal Oak set the scene for a competitive encounter in the search for 3 points.

The opening 45 minutes proved a scrappy affair, with chances at a premium as both teams battled to find their rhythm.

Hackney Wick handed a debut to young goalkeeper Tyron Osadolor, producing a number of sharp reflex saves throughout the afternoon.

It was the hosts who broke the deadlock on 28 minutes. Joe Knight produced the standout moment of quality in the first half, finding the net from distance with a powerful strike that flew past Osadolor to give Harwich the lead.

Half time - Harwich & Parkeston 1 Hackney Wick 0.

Hackney Wick came out with greater attacking intent after the interval and began to pose a much bigger threat.

Their pressure finally paid off in the 61st minute following a patient passage of play. Joshua Opka picked his moment perfectly, threading a well-timed through ball into the Harwich defence for Kennedy Feyi to latch onto and calmly convert.

The equaliser sparked life into the contest, with both sides sensing that all three points were there for the taking.

Hackney Wick went close to completing the turnaround, forcing a smart save from the Harwich goalkeeper William Healy from close range before another opportunity clipped the crossbar. At the other end, Osadolor continued to impress, making a couple of important saves to deny Harwich and ensure the scores remained level.

The young goalkeeper’s performance was particularly encouraging on his debut, standing firm when called upon and playing a key role in securing a point for the visitors.

Neither side could find the decisive goal in the closing stages, and after an entertaining final 30 minutes, the points were ultimately shared.

Full time: Harwich & Parkeston 1–1 Hackney Wick.