It certainly was not a vintage Dragons performance against JCU however, with coach Nick Tither left with plenty of things to ponder after surrendering a three-goal lead and only getting over the line in the end thanks to an own goal.

The Dragons started the match brightly despite the very long nature of the grass making fast, free-flowing football difficult. They controlled the ball better than JCU and initially dealt with their fast, skilful players well. Indeed the Dragons took the lead when Andy Warburton showed good composure for once to find the bottom corner from about twelve yards out. His usual form in front of goal returned soon after as a couple of easier chances went begging.

Warburton then turned provider doing some excellent work down the Dragons left before laying an inch perfect pass into Danny Ferrero who took his time before lashing the ball home via the underside of the bar to the delight of his small but vocal group of support. Matty Smith then continued the trend of the season by winning and then converting a penalty to give the Dragons what looked like an unassailable three goal lead.

This is where something changed however. The attitude and intent seemed to fall away whilst JCU just kept plugging away. They were having particular joy down the Dragons right, getting in behind and causing a few problems as well as when they picked up the ball in midfield and ran at the Dragons defence.

JCU took full advantage of the Dragons dithering by grabbing two gaols before the halftime break. Both goals were well taken and left Gaz Fitzgerald no chance in the Dragons goal.

The riot act was read at half time in the hope that there would be an improved second half performance and while the Dragons did a better job of controlling the ball, JCU still managed to cause more than their fair share of problems.

The Dragons thought they had once again killed the game off as a contest when Matty Smith’s corner deflected off a JCU player and into the back of the net but there was still time for a bit of a grandstand finish as a giveaway in midfield allowed JCU in again and another superb finish made it 4-3 with under ten minutes remaining. 

Thankfully, and despite a few nervy moments, the Dragons hung on for the victory that moves them eleven points clear at the top of the table. The Paddy’s Bar Man of the Match went to Max Taylor who used the ball intelligently and was unlucky to see his first half strike deflected onto the bar and out.

Next up for the Dragons is a massive home game against Atherton, the only team who can do anything to stop the Dragons winning the league. Get out to Cassowary Park on Friday for an 8pm kick off and cheer the lads on.