THE Coffs United Lions edged past the Coffs Coast Tigers 1-0 to go top of the Coastal Premier League last Saturday at Polwarth Drive.

A clinical first half finish from Mabior Garang put the Lions ahead at half time but they had to survive a second half onslaught from the Tigers which included a penalty that ricocheted off the crossbar.

In a game of slim margins it was Mabior’s work rate and high press that got the Lions over the line.

“It was definitely a tight game and really physical, I had heaps of chances to put a couple more away but I wasn’t successful.

“The high press up the field I reckon played a big part in my goal and us scoring a goal definitely lifted our team to push us through to the end without conceding a goal,” said Mabior.

The three points sent the Lions to the top of the CPL as they swapped places with Boambee who went down to Macleay Valley Rangers 2-1 on Sunday.

Coach Glen Williams was happy to walk away with the points in a game of slim margins.

“The night started with a speed bump after Jake Mahoney had been struck down with gastro, so Will Goodwin made another first grade appearance and played very well between the sticks.

“First half we played some great football with high intensity and some pressure put on their defence gave Mabior Garang a half chance that he calmly slotted away.

“Not sure what happened at half time, however the Lions seemed to sit back and let the Tigers come at them.

“The Tigers kept going attack after attack and it paid off with a run through the middle resulting in young Will (Goodwin) bringing down the attacker in the box.

“The resulting penalty hit the crossbar and went sailing over the top, the result ended 1-0, the second half was not one of our best but we have the points,” said Glen.

The Lions’ next match is against Lake Macquarie City in the sixth round of the FFA Cup on Saturday 12 June at Lake Macquarie.

The Tigers host the Taree Wildcats on Saturday 12 June at Polwarth Drive with a 3pm kick off.

 

By David WIGLEY