Dragons jump to second after fiery clash



Monday 29 August 2011

Dragons jump to second after fiery clash

The Douglas United Dragons have moved to second place on the FNQ Football men’s second division table after a fiery 5-nil demolition of arch rivals, Innisfail Cutters, on Friday night.

Scottish recruit, Will Storrar, featured in the scoring with two goals at the Dragons’ last home game at Cassowary Park, while John Raffaele continued on his record-high goal-scoring FNQ Football season with one goal.

Dragons player, Rodney Rasmussen, told PortFM’s Saturday Morning Sports Show that emotions ran high during the traditional grudge match.

Matt Smith sent off with a yellow card after allegedly remonstrating against a rugby-style tackle.

“It was a pretty rough tackle,” Rasmussen said. “Then there was a heated argument and some pushing a shoving.

“All three of Matty’s yellow cards this season have happened during clashes with the Cutters, but he still ended up with two goals.”

Best for the Dragons were Ben Sorat, goalie Gary Fitzgerald and Neil Burkam before going off with a hamstring in second half.

“Our first half was sloppy, but we still went three goals up,” Rasmussen said.

“Then we played real footy in the second half and put another two goals away.”

The Dragons are hoping for the return of star shooter Smokin’ Joe Abidini to return from work commitments in the lead-up to finals, as striker Dave Mainwaring is out for the remainder of the season with an ankle injury.

This week, Dragons are away to Redlynch Maroon on a rare Sunday game at St. Andrew’s College, Redlynch. Kick-off is at noon.