Lion-hearted Murphy show in FNQ men's soccer

Craig Ross

Monday, May 3, 2010

© The Cairns Post



A STAR turn from young striker Matthew Murphy lifted Leichhardt to the top of the FNQ Football men's premier division soccer championship after its 4-2 home win against Stratford on Saturday night.

Leichhardt coach Chris Pennington’s decision to throw Murphy into the fray in the final 15 minutes of the match paid off handsomely, the youngster repaying his coach’s faith with two late goals to seal the victory.

The teams were locked at 1-1 at halftime after Leichhardt had enjoyed an ideal start when Darcy Fernandez scored in the third minute and were level at 2-2 when Murphy exploded into the match.

The two sides went into the clash sharing top spot after opening the season with three successive victories apiece and Pennington was delighted the Lions now have the sole premiership lead.

"The boys played good football, it was a tough game," he said. "We’re getting stronger every week, the boys are digging in and they’re sticking to the plan set for them."

Pennington said his side’s ability to retain possession of the ball for extended periods of the game contributed to the victory.

He said goalkeeper Jack Richards was outstanding on the night, producing several fine saves, with defender Mark Pinto also strong at the back.

Stratford coach Glenn Binskin was proud his players had pushed Leichhardt late into the match, despite having their third game in seven days.

"We knew Leichhardt were going to come out hard against us, and we did the same thing," he said.

"We had our chances, and we hit the post twice or three times, (but) after three games in a week, the boys were feeling it a bit in the last 15 minutes."

Binskin said the tough schedule meant he would not read too much into the result and was confident his team would bounce back next round.

He said midfielder Andre Lohman and attacking weapon Aaron Bull were among his best on the night.

In the other premier division match on Saturday night, Edge Hill secured its first win of the season with a 3-1 triumph over Mareeba.

It was just Edge Hill’s second match for 2010. It will line up for its third against Fusion at Tiger Park on Wednesday night.http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2010/05/03/107991_local-sport-news.html