Harwich and Parkeston play host to Diss Town in high spirits on the back of a mid-week win away to Ipswich Wanderers.

It was the Shrimpers' second win of the season and was Steve McGavin's first since taking over the managerial hot-seat at the Royal Oak.

Harwich still prop up the league but three points could see them leap-frog rivals Clacton depending on the Seasiders' result at Ely.

Diss are 20th in the division but have picked up 11 goals in their last three wins. Last weekend they defeated Tiptree 3-2 in the FA Vase with a last-minute penalty.

The match will also be a chance for McGavin to pit his wits against another former professional Robert Fleck, who is the current Diss manager and former Norwich City and Chelsea striker.

McGavin was delighted to see his side win 3-2 at Ipswich Wanderers Tuesday night and said: "It's important to get the first win out of the way as the longer it goes on it becomes a big concern.

"But the league table doesn't lie and although we're showing signs of improving we must tighten up at the back."

Harwich will have to reshuffle their side for the visit of Diss. Kevin Mann is out with a long-term groin injury, Duncan Jackson needed six stitches in a gashed knee picked up in last weekend's defeat and Robbie May is to undergo a knee operation.

Daryl Eagle and Gareth Heath are both unavailable.

Centre-half, Aaron Hanna will be available for selection after missing the mid-week win but Paul Smith and Paul Musgrove will both miss-out.

Published Friday November 15, 2002

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