Harlow win in top of the table clash!

Harlow hosted the table toppers at the start of the day and knowing that a win would put Harlow top of the table and with a game in hand over their title rivals.

Before kick-off, there was a minute silence to remember and honour the fallen from the First World War.

Harlow introduced new signing Dan Matsuzaka into the heart of defence for his first start for the hawks and Robbie Martin coming in for Ben Glasgow.

It was a fantastic start for Harlow who opened the scoring on three minutes as Alex Reads snapshot from the edge of the area crept into the bottom corner.

After this lively start, the game went through a quiet patch as for the following twenty five minutes, neither side created any chances to worry any goalkeeper.

Harlow were very close to adding a second on the half hour mark as a fantastic cross from Layne Eadie wasn’t dealt with by keeper Shaun Philips and Junior Appiah’s effort was cleared off the line by Samuel Nunn.

Needham came very close to equalising through Sam Newson. The ball was whipped in and found its way to Sam Newson whose header from 6 yards was clawed back out by Ed Thompson from point blank range.

Needham was unlucky not to get on the score sheet early on in the second half as Sam Newson ambitious effort went just over the bar.

And Needham finally got their equaliser through Daniel Cunningham. A sweeping move from the visitors resulting in Cunningham sliding the ball through Thompsons legs.

Harlow replied well to Needhams equaliser as Harlow went close from attempts by Jared Small and David Cowley.

And Harlow re-established their lead through substitute Shane Stamp. A fantastic run by Small got him to the by-line and delivered a fantastic cross to the far post and the on-rushing Shane Stamp who dived and headed into the back of the net.

Alex Read could have got his second goal of the afternoon when James Smith played Read in and his shot was well saved by Philips.

There were many strong individual performances including the defensive partnership of Matsuzaka and Urquhart and Harlow held on for a huge and significant three points that put Harlow top of the table.

ATTENDANCE:418