Harborough`s problems began early on as the villagers struck the first blow in the ninth minute.

Using the slope and headwind to their advantage, they played long balls into the Harborough half, constantly putting them under pressure

Town striker Danny Wright levelled the scores after pouncing on a through-ball and rounding the keeper, but minutes later Harpole responded with a headed goal to take a lead into the second half.

Harborough`s problems were compounded when, having made two first half substitutions, it became clear that two more of their players were unable to start the second half due to injuries.

The sight of Harborouh taking the field down to ten men spurred Harpole on and with the majority of possession it was inevitable that the visiting defence would crack.

Right back Brent Steed clumsily challenged a Harpole striker in the box and was red-carded, leaving the away side with just nine players and 3-1 down.

The game was put beyond doubt on the 75th minute when Harpole scored from another penalty, which was well struck beyond keeper Luke Maher.

Wright`s persistence up front enabled him to score his second goal late in the match but the contest and the three premier division points were comfortably Harpole's by then.

Harborough's next fixture is against Brixworth at Bowdens Park on Saturday, (ko 2pm).

Desborough Town were cruelly denied three points when visitors Holbeach United grabbed an equaliser eight minutes into injury time.

The home side had fallen behind as early as the second minute but fought back and Danny Rogers grabbed an equaliser on 25 minutes.

Midway through the second half Michael Boyle-Chong gave them the lead and they then missed further opportunities to increase their lead before the late equaliser.

The reserves notched their second successive 3-2 victory, coming from two goals down to snatch the points with goals from Jordan Middleton, Simon Chambers and Lee Greig.

This Saturday the first team entertain Daventry United while the reserves visit Blackstones.