Harleston Town fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat away at Thetford Town, despite a much-improved second-half display and a determined push in the final stages of the match.

Town made just two changes from Saturday’s defeat at Ely, with Olly Ebbage coming in for the injured Tom Huckerby, while new signing Max Willett replaced Nathan Page. It was also a special night for the Sutton family, as brothers Harry and Ollie started in opposite goals – a rare and memorable moment for both players.

The match started at a frantic pace, with both sides exchanging early opportunities. Just three minutes in, Thetford had the first chance of the game, comfortably saved by Ollie Sutton. Moments later, Alfie Bell was played through by Joe Manning but fired straight at Harry Sutton in the Thetford goal.

The action continued as Thetford broke through midfield in the 8th minute, forcing another strong save from Ollie Sutton, before Josh Durham capitalised on a defensive slip at the other end, only to see his effort blocked. Sutton was called into action again on 15 minutes to keep the hosts at bay, capping an eventful and energetic first quarter of an hour with both sides still settling into the new season.

Archie Gilmore, a standout performer in Saturday’s defeat, showed his quality once again, constantly probing and creating space. His first real chance came in the 34th minute, but his low strike was well gathered by Harry Sutton.

The deadlock was broken just after the interval. Thetford produced the first real moment of quality, as George Diggins and Harvey Lot combined neatly, before the latter fired home to make it 1-0 in the 46th minute.

Town nearly hit back immediately through a Joe Manning header that looped just over the bar, and continued to push as the half wore on. However, new striker Max Willett was forced off through injury early in the second half, replaced by Panashae Mundawara.

Harleston responded with a wave of pressure. Rob Turner tested Harry Sutton with a powerful strike in the 52nd minute, before manager Matt Halliday introduced Brandon Pickess and Nathan Page to freshen things up.

The chances kept coming. Durham’s deflected free kick led to a dangerous corner, with Shane Cox flashing a header just over. Spencer Cawcutt came inches away from connecting with a dangerous cross on 66 minutes, and Robbie Turner saw another free kick well held by Harry Sutton.

In the final stages, Town looked sharp and full of running, and an equaliser felt inevitable. Their best opportunity fell to Archie Gilmore in the 89th minute – a free header that lacked direction and fell into the arms of the keeper. Alfie Bell then went agonisingly close in stoppage time, firing just wide from a promising position.

Despite the defeat, it was a spirited and encouraging performance from Town – a clear improvement from their opening day showing.

Manager’s Reaction – Matt Halliday:
“I was really pleased with the performance tonight. I thought we looked sharp, organised, and we created plenty of chances – certainly a big improvement from Saturday. If we keep playing like that, the results will come, I’ve got no doubt about that. But I’m not naïve – I know we can’t just play good football and not win games. That side of things needs to turn quickly.”

Next up for Harleston Town:
The focus now turns to the FA Cup as Town return home to The Rec on Saturday, where they’ll host Walsham-le-Willows. Kick-off is at 3pm.