There were several changes in the Witham side on Saturday due to suspensions, injuries and illness making their task more arduous against a team destined for the Championship.

However, although enduring some menacing moments in the first half, Witham were equal to their hosts and with a little bit of luck and some better finishing, could have ended the first half in the lead.

After the break however it all went wrong for Witham with an accumulation of defensive mistakes.

In the 56th minute, Wayne Cort headed in and the same player got Harlow's second goal with a lob that saw the ball bounce and hit the upright before going in.

Wade Falana scored an easy third goal when he had an open goal at his mercy to head in, and in the closing moments, Cort completed his hat-trick.

Witham had their chances with Wayne Vaughan and Lee Guiver going close and a low shot from Justin Pearce following a corner only inches away.

It was a battling performance by the Witham side against a better team.

Last week's match against Grays Athletic in the Essex Thames Trophy saw Witham win 2-1.

Lee Guiver and Wayne Vaughan were the Witham goalscorers in an evenly matched game with Witham introducing some players from the Youth team who all played well.

Witham Town Reserves lost their Essex & Herts Border Combination game 2-1 to Canvey Island at Spa Road on Saturday, Chris Bassert the Town goalscorer.

Town Under 18's lost 1-0 to top of the league Maldon Town.

Town's first team are away on Saturday at Hemel Hempstead for a Ryman League match.

On Easter Monday (April 5) Wivenhoe Town are the visitors to Spa Road for a Ryman League fixture, and with the teams close to each other in the League, a good crowd is expected (kick off 3pm).

There is still time to register for the Youth Soccer School at Spa Road over the Easter holiday.

Call at the club for a form or telephone Pat Garrett on 0410 485780 for further details

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.