EASTERN Suburbs have kept their NPL Queensland finals hopes alive with a gritty 1-0 win over Wynnum Wolves FC at Heath Park on Saturday night.
A well-taken second-half goal from striker Bailey Ferguson proved the difference in an even contest, as the Tigers claimed three vital points to stay within striking distance of the top four.
After a cagey first half, the breakthrough came in the 66th minute when Laurence Cant sparked a quick attack down the right wing.
Cant beat his marker and delivered a sharp low cross into the box, where Ferguson was waiting.
Showing composure under pressure, the forward controlled the ball just inside the centre of the 18-yard area, turned his defender, and curled a superb left-footed strike into the top left-hand corner, giving the goalkeeper no chance.
Wynnum Wolves had several good moments of their own and were arguably on top for large periods of the match.
Easts also hit the post and forced Wolves goalkeeper Zac Galea into a couple of excellent saves.
With Wolves creating some promising opportunities but then failing to add the finishing touch, there would be disappointment that these chances weren’t converted – particularly considering how much possession the team had.
Eastern Suburbs held firm in the closing stages as the Wolves pushed hard for an equaliser, with the home side digging deep to protect its lead.
The win sees Eastern Suburbs climb to fifth on the ladder, now just two points behind fourth-placed Gold Coast Knights, and importantly, with a game in hand.
The result was especially meaningful for the Tigers, who were docked three points earlier in the season following a decision by Football Queensland relating to player eligibility.
Despite that setback, the side has remained in the mix and will be looking to push hard in the final rounds.
For Wynnum Wolves, the result keeps them in 10th place, seven points clear of bottom-placed St George Willawong with three games remaining.
Not yet mathematically safe from relegation, Wolves will now turn their attention to a tough home fixture on Saturday night against second-placed Moreton City Excelsior (6.15pm kick-off).
Eastern Suburbs will look to continue their finals push against finals contenders Gold Coast Knights this weekend in a must-win clash.
