Lions hopes suffer a big blow

GARSTON VETS LEAGUE

FOOTBALL LONDON Lions’ title hopes were dealt a blow as they suffered their first league defeat of the season, finishing well beaten at reigning champions Winchmore Hill.

Lions got off to the worst possible start when defender David Soutar succumbed to injury inside the first five minutes.

Hill forged ahead on 20 minutes from a breakaway goal tinged with fortune. Tony Gold did well to get to the cross before his man, but his clearance struck Paul Lenchner and rebounded in the net.

Lions then had their best spell and deservedly drew level when Mike Pearson skipped past a couple of challenges before rifling a left-footed strike into the bottom corner.

Hill regained the advantage early in the second half, and the game turned in their favour soon after. Lions’ striker Lee Cash appeared to be brought down in the box; the referee seemed ready to blow his whistle, but then allowed play to continue, and Hill took full advantage, playing the ball forward and three passes later it was in the back of Lions’ net.

Lions, try as they might and with no lack of effort, were unable to create enough and with the spaces they left Hill picked them off twice more to give the scoreline a very one-sided feel.

Walthamstow, fresh from making it to the Essex County Cup final, will provide the test for Lions this weekend.