Young Lions have gone from wooden spooners to semi finalists after grinding out a 1-0 elimination final win over Leeton.
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The Lions fought bravely against a fiery Leeton side that threw everything into the contest and were lucky not to concede a late goal during a heart-stopping final flurry.
Alexander Mitchell proved the difference for Young, slotting a goal late in the first half to give his side the edge and leave Leeton ruing a wasteful opening term.
A half time chat had Leeton shooting out of the blocks after oranges with Adam Raso driving strongly into the corner and piling pressure on the Lions’ defence.
Pascoe Cup Player of the Year nominee Patrick Hislop was inches from doubling Young’s lead shortly after when an open goal went begging but it was Leeton with all the momentum heading into the final 20 minutes.
Anthony Trifogli was twice denied inside the box and Leeton fans started piping up after a borderline tackle was determined to be a free kick and not a penalty.
Young coach Mark Mellish conceded his side were under the pump late but praised their tenacity.
“They’re a good bunch of boys and they really played for each other out there. It was an ugly win but we got there and that’s what counts.” Mellish said.