Although taking a second-minute lead, they were unable to take advantage of numerous first-half chances and it needed a cracking goal from defender Andy Joslin before a penalty provided some breathing space.

Making his debut was Liam Morley, on loan from Wivenhoe while there was a welcome back for South Korean San Lee who has at last gained international clearance.

The home side made a great start when skipper Steve Daly nodded home a Danny Rowell free kick and home supporters settled down to cheer more goals.

Swaffham hit back gamely, forcing three corners, with home keeper Paul Wood saving well from Andy Chatters. But Wood was rescued minutes later when Wayne Saunders cleared off the line from Rob Howling.

Some 30 minutes passed before Halstead picked up their game again, but both Morley and Newman were found wanting when opportunities arrived before Dave Barefield forced Halstead's first corner of the half close on the interval.

Halstead pressed strongly after the break but the lowly visitors grabbed an equaliser against the run of play when, on 52 minutes, the home defence were caught ball-watching and allowed Steve Bedford's cross to find the head of defender Jim Miller.

This was quickly followed by Barefield breaking clear to fire straight at keeper Hails.

On the hour San Lee entered the fray for Saunders, but Halstead had to wait until defender Andy Joslin surged foward on to a Barefield lay-off and crack home fine 25-yarder to give his side the lead on 72 minutes.

Some eight minutes later Chris Bryan blasted home a penalty after Steff Falla was fouled in the box to give some relief to the home side.

To their credit Swaffham would not give up and it needed a great save by Wood to deny a Chatters free kick, leaving Halstead to wonder how they failed to take so many first half chances.

Halstead Town: Wood; Joslin, Rowell, Falla, Devaux, Morley, Saunders (San Lee 60), Daly, Bryan, Barefield (Austin 85), Newman (Harper 80). Subs (not used): Battell, Crumpton.