Ryman Div One North

Harlow Town 2 v 1 Needham Market

AN INSPIRATIONAL substitution from Hawks boss, Danny Chapman saw sub Shane Stamp head home the winner and put Harlow back on top of the league with a 2-1 win against Needham Market at Harlow Arena.

Harlow went in with a plan and a huge amount of self belief. It was that self belief that saw them over the line.

In the 2nd minute, Junior Appiah picked up the ball on the right hand side, crossed to Alex Read who punched the ball home from close range.

It was just the start Harlow wanted in front of their biggest home crowd of the season (418) but now the task was to extend that lead.

Needham looked short of confidence, early on, as they struggled with the quality of Harlow’s play.

Harlow’s confidence was illustrated by expansive, confident play.

Needham had balance and a confident way of playing but they were hardly threatening Ed Thompson’s goal.

But that didn’t mean they did not try and Sam Newson looked very dangerous on the break

Robbie Martin impressed at right back with his touch and vision in what was becoming a very professional performance. Sometimes Harlow’s defenders don’t get the credit they deserve. A great interception by Layne Eadie illustrated the point just before half time.

Harlow nearly made it 2-0 in the 30th minute when an unpredictable cross by Appiah hit the bar.

The tackling became passionate and there was a concern that the referee Jairo Marin would not be able to control the game.

And Harlow had to contain Sam Newson who, lost his marker six yards out, headed goal wards but Ed Thompson produced a fine one handed save.

Needham looked very determined to shake things up as they came out for the second half and the deadly Newson had two very good chances early in the half

But Harlow in front of a crowd of 418 were determined to take the three points.

However, in the 53rd minute, Daniel Cunningham outstripped the Harlow defence to send the ball flying into the net.

This was now going to test the Hawk’s credibility.

Jared Small went close as the team and a David Cowley shot should have done better.

Shane Stamp came on for Junior Appah as Harlow were starting to get worried that Needham were getting a grip of the game.

But don’t you love it when a plan comes together as in the 53rd minute, a wonderful cross from Jared Small was met by Shane Stamp at the far post who headed in very bravely.

The game was now perfectly poised and played with great speed and atmosphere.