Harleston Town record first Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division win of 2025 over Heacham

Manager Matt Halliday is hoping that his Harleston Town side have started to turn a corner after they recorded a 4-2 victory over Heacham.

Prior to Tuesday night’s triumph, Harleston had won none of their previous six Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division fixtures – a sequence that featured five defeats.

However, they stopped the rot courtesy of goals from Spencer Cawcutt (2), Jamie Smith and Josh Durham, which moved Town up to 16th place in the process.

Halliday, who was appointed Harleston boss in November, said: “It’s really pleasing to get the win because it’s been tough going recently.

“We played really well when we beat Mulbarton (on December 28) but we didn’t follow that up.

“I think part of the reason for that is the weather we’ve had. We had some games called off after the Mulbarton win and we lost a lot of momentum.

“I saw some pleasing signs even when we weren’t winning, but ultimately we lacked quality in the key moments. We also haven’t been defending well enough and if you put that together it’s not a good mix.

“But it came together much better against Heacham. The first 30 minutes we were exceptional and while it did get a bit nervy, we weathered the pressure and picked up an important three points.

“Hopefully it’s the start of a decent run of results and we can move up the table.”

By chance, Harleston will return to action tomorrow with an immediate rematch against Heacham (3pm).

And while his side will have to guard against a home team gunning for some quick revenge, Halliday also believes that his players will be even better prepared for the contest.

“Tuesday was the first time I’d come across Heacham. I’d never played or managed against them,” he added.

“It was good for me to see what they’re about. They’ve got some quality players that are full of energy – they definitely gave us some problems.

“But we’ve already beaten them and we’ll be confident that we can do it again.

“I’ve got a better insight into them, we’ve got a bit more information and hopefully that will help the players to nullify some of their threats.”

Halliday is hopeful that he will be able to welcome some key absentees back into the squad for the weekend, including defender James Wilson and goalkeeper Elliot Pride.