Unlucky sevens for hard-working Suffolk

Swimming: A disappointing draw proved the best that Suffolk's strong waterpolo side could manage in a recent hard-fought match.Given their impressive performance in recent months, Ipswich might well have hoped to clinch a glorious win in their penultimate winter league game of 2002.

A disappointing draw proved the best that Suffolk's strong waterpolo side could manage in a recent hard-fought match.

Given their impressive performance in recent months, Ipswich might well have hoped to clinch a glorious win in their penultimate winter league game of 2002.

Playing away from home, the side took on Harlow with – on paper – every chance of gaining glory if their competitive form remained true.

Unfortunately fortune was not to be on the side of the Suffolk squad.

With captain David McCartney sidelined due to a stomach bug, Ipswich began slowly and were soon falling well behind their opponents.

By the close of the first quarter they found themselves a disappointing three goals down after a string of errors.

These tactical mishaps included a goalkeeping slip from Chris Stephens, who let a straightforward Harlow shot slip through his hands.

Ever determined, Ipswich rallied in the middle periods with goals from Matt Morgan and Guy Smith, while Rick Tovell steadied the defence by denying Harlow any clear shooting opportunities in front of the net.

A penalty later looked promising after hard work by Morgan.

It might have proved valuable but instead came to nothing when Artie Radziunas pounded the ball into a post instead of the net.

The last quarter started with Ipswich trailing 5-4. A glimmer of their usual style shone forth as they scored three quick goals, but in the closing minutes Harlow clawed back first one then a second to level the score and finish the match 7-7.

It was far from an ideal result for the Suffolk squad, but certainly one which will make them grateful to have their full team back in action in time for the remaining games of the league.