‘FA Vase run will boost Lions in the long-term,’ says Landesberg
FOOTBALL ANDY Landesberg expressed disappointment after London Lions bowed out of the FA Vase in heartbreaking fashion, with an 85th goal direct from a corner ending their hopes of glory.
Attempting to reach the third round of the competition for the first time, the Lions delivered a resilient display against Leighton Town – a team challenging for top spot in the division above – in what was a fiery contest.
In front of a lively crowd at Bell Close, Lions made a nervy start, with some of the tension coming from the touchline perhaps transmitting to the players as Leighton began brightly and did not allow the Lions to settle.
Nick Landesberg and Adam Myeroff were in commanding form in defence for the Lions, while at the other end Adam Bolle went close a couple of times in a game of few chances.
Goalkeeper Dan Lipman was finally beaten when an inswinging corner drifted over his head and into the cor- ner of the net five minutes from time.
Landesberg said: “The boys produced big displays against a decent Leighton team. They edged the first half but we grew in strength and confidence after the break.
“I was slightly frustrated by our lack of cutting edge but overall the display proved how far we have come. We are disappointed we didn’t get something from the game but showed we can compete at this level.”
Recent arrival Mitch Hahn was brought on for the final 30 minutes and Landesberg believes he “will have a big part to play in the coming weeks.”
LIONS: Dan Lipman, Sam Hamerton, Ollie Craig, Adam Myeroff, Nick Landesberg, Jake Furman (capt), Charlie Kasler, Jack Mattey, Max Kyte, Austin Lipman, Adam Bolle. Subs: Mitch Hahn, Adam Burchell