A scrappy opening period burst into life on 22 mins with an unconventional goal. Mario Noto sent a free kick into the penalty area, and Jared Small flicked a leg at it to see his backheel volley fly over the goalkeeper and into the net.

Just five minutes later the lead was doubled. A neat counter-attacking move was passed across the pitch from right to left. Left-back Layne Eadie, on the overlap, latched onto a through-ball from Joe Benjamin and rifled a shot in at the near post.

A third goal followed to complete the scoring within a ten minute spell. Alain Moges headed a free kick back across goal, and Alex Read was on hand to poke home from close range.

Wingate’s best chance came just before the break when Alfie Bartram ran through on goal, but a last ditch sliding tackle from Craig Pope denied the striker.

HT: Harlow Town 3-0 Wingate & Finchley

The second half was a more tame affair, although Harlow were reduced to 10 men when Ibrahima Sonko saw red for a foul as the last man.

Wingate couldn't make their numbers advantage count, with long-range efforts from Rob Laney and Robert Ogleby going wide of the mark, and will be disappointed with their afternoon’s work.

FT: Harlow Town 3-0 Wingate & Finchley
ATTENDANCE: 227

The Hawks next travel to Canvey Island for a Bank Holiday game on Monday 29th August. Kick off at 3pm.