Tigers set sights on top five

Wednesday 2 July, 2008 12:01am

THE Leichhardt Tigers have kept alive their hopes of finishing in the NSW Premier League's top five after beating Manly United 1-0 at Lambert Park on Sunday.

The close game saw a valiant effort from both sides but 72 minutes in Leichhardt striker Robert Younis scored with a free kick to clinch the victory.

Manly United opened up opportunities early with Joey Schrippa leading an impressive interchange of passes. The Manly side sped towards the goal before Leichhardt goalkeeper Matthew Nash produced a save by pushing the ball out for a corner. Manly's introduction of Chris Payne saw them come close to scoring but Leichhardt remained strong, coming close to a goal in the 35th minute.

Younis had a perfect chance from the side but was stopped by Manly goalkeeper Bradley Swancott.

Tigers' captain Michael Galluzzo did not return during the second half due to a hamstring injury. He was replaced by David D'Apuzzo. Manly defender Roberto Hamad was also sent off the field after receiving yellow card after a scuffle.

Younis's goal came after a ruling that Swancott had left his penalty area while holding the ball.

Manly's last chance to salvage a point came with Schrippa, who got the ball from the Tigers' Matthew Nash, who had come off his line. Schrippa powered over the crossbar but was not able to draw the game.

The Tigers were able to penetrate Manly's penalty area more frequently however the visitors had a strong performance midfield, with more points than their opponents.

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