The Nathan Verri Douglas United Dragons recorded a crucial 2-1 win over playoff rival Stratford at Cassowary Park on Saturday night, leaving Douglas in pole position to gain home ground advantage for their next playoff game. 

In a very physical contest against the quick and direct opposition, the Dragons were happy to grind out the result, though they'll likely face likely Stratford again as the playoffs continue.

With five first-team regulars unavailable for the match, the Dragons knew they would have to be at their best to overcome Stratford, but it was the visitors who started the better of the sides. Their direct play caused the Dragons some problems early on, but as the half wore on, the Dragons began to threaten. Ollie Moffat headed into the side netting from a corner and Liam McInally could have pulled the trigger when through on goal, only to decide against it.

With time running out in the first half, McInally gave the Dragons the lead when he picked up the ball on the left hand side of the box following a good cross from Martyn Friars. McInally showed excellent composure as he squeezed his shot past the keeper at the near post. The Dragons’ lead was short lived though, as the Stratford striker who had been causing the defence problems all night got onto the end of a through ball to tuck neatly past the advancing Christian Mackintosh in the Dragons goal to make it 1-1 at half time.

The second half saw the Dragons much more composed in possession, able to dictate play far more than in the first period. There were still a few nervy moments at the back, as Stratford continued with their direct approach. Moffat again had a good chance to put the Dragons in front following a lovely scooped pass from McInally, only to blaze his shot high over the bar. With the clock ticking away, McInally raced clear on the left and this time did put his foot through the ball, leaving the keep with no chance and putting the Dragons in front for the second time.

The final ten minutes saw the Dragons wind down the clock to good effect, keeping the ball off the Stratford side. At the final whistle there were a few sighs of relief however, as the Dragons secured a vital three points. The Court House Man of the Match went to goal hero Liam McInally who, along with his double, was a creative influence throughout the match.

The Blood Orange Reserves continued their march towards the title with an impressive 3-1 victory thanks to goals from Lewis Butterss, a wonder strike from James Turner and James Cooling. This was despite playing fifty-five minutes with nine men following some poor refereeing decisions. Next up is a crucial catch up match against Mareeba on Friday night again at Cassowary Park. The Dragons will be looking to consolidate third place in the ladder while the reserves can all but wrap up the minor premiership with a victory.