Point Gained as Frenford Held by Late Harwich Leveller
Frenford 2–2 Harwich & Parkeston
Emdad Rahman
Frenford FC continue to fly high at the summit of the Essex Senior League despite being denied victory by a last gasp Harwich & Parkeston equaliser in an entertaining four goal encounter.
The league leaders looked on course for another valuable three points after establishing a two goal advantage, but the visitors showed plenty of character to fight back and snatch a share of the spoils.
Frenford made a positive start, looking purposeful in possession and keen to impose their attacking game. The early pressure was rewarded when Steven Carvel stepped up to convert from the penalty spot, giving the home side the breakthrough their opening play deserved.
Carvel was again instrumental shortly afterwards, turning provider with an assist for Mo Malik, who finished confidently to double Frenford’s advantage. It was a productive contribution from Carvel, whose influence was central to the home side’s first half performance. His afternoon was unfortunately cut short when he left the pitch late in the first half.
With a two goal cushion, Frenford appeared well placed to take control, but Harwich refused to let the game drift away. Lewis Bloom pulled one back from the spot before the interval, giving the Shrimpers renewed belief and setting up an exciting second half.
During the interval Frenford paid tribute to Liverpool and England legend John Barnes on his 63rd birthday, with World in Motion providing the soundtrack. It was a fitting celebration of one of English football’s most gifted players and a reminder of the game’s ability to bring generations together.
The second period developed into a competitive, end to end contest. Harwich emerged with greater urgency firing the last half hour, looking to capitalise on their renewed momentum, while Frenford sought to restore their two goal advantage. Both sides committed players forward, producing plenty of goalmouth activity, attacking transitions and nervous moments for the respective defences.
Frenford had opportunities to put daylight between the teams, but Harwich remained organised and determined. The visitors continued to ask questions, with Frenford having to work hard defensively to protect their slender advantage. There were close calls at both ends as the game entered its closing stages, with neither side willing to settle for what they had.
Just when Frenford looked to have done enough to secure another home victory, Harwich delivered the final twist. A last minute equaliser, arriving virtually on the final whistle, stunned the home supporters and ensured the points were shared.
For Frenford joint managers Imrul Gazi and Steven Carvel, there will be plenty of positives to take from another performance that demonstrated their quality and ability to compete at the top end of the division.
Managers Imrul Gazi and Steven Carvel commented: “There were plenty of positives in our performance, particularly going forward. We showed our quality, and with a very young side.
“We started brightly, created opportunities and put ourselves in a strong position. Credit to Harwich for their fight, but we have to learn from the closing stages and make sure we see these games through.
“Baring in mind other results today its a positive point in the end.”
The result brought an end to an afternoon of contrasting emotions for the high flyers, who are now in second place and on the heels of Heybridge Swifts.
Two goals, some excellent attacking combinations and a memorable tribute to John Barnes provided plenty to celebrate, but the late equaliser left a sense of unfinished business.
Nevertheless, Frenford remain firmly in the driving seat at the top end of the table. Their consistency, ambition and collective spirit continue to underpin an impressive campaign.
Harwich deserve credit for their resilience and refusal to surrender, taking full advantage of their late opportunity.
Essex Senior League – Today’s Results
* Barking FC 2-0 Clapton FC
* Basildon United 2-2 Ensign
* Frenford 2-2 Harwich & Parkeston
* Great Wakering Rovers 7-1 Benfleet
* Hackney Wick 0-3 Romford
* Hutton 6-2 Sporting Bengal United
* Ilford 1-1 Woodford Town
* Stanway Rovers 0-1 Heybridge Swifts
* Soul Tower Hamlets 2-3 Hullbridge Sports
* West Essex 2-0 Halstead Town
