Dave Lindo, Gleaner Writer

A superb strike by Fabian Pascoe in time added handed Humble Lion a 1-0 victory over Highgate United in their Red Stripe Premier League football encounter at Effortville Community Centre yesterday.

Pascoe received a ball at the top of the 18-yard box and after putting it on his favoured right foot, unleashed a beautiful strike which beat goalkeeper Maurice Evans as it flew into the top right corner of the goal.

It was Geoffrey Maxwell's second win in two games after taking over the reins as the Clarendon team's head coach, following the departure of former coach Lenworth Hyde Sr.

"I feel great to know we got the three points because we worked hard for it," the very happy Pascoe said.

The midfielder, who was scoring for the first time this season, dedicated the goal to the fans.

"I feel good to know that the fans can go home and have something to celebrate, we really needed this three points."

motivation worked

Humble Lion's assistant coach, Linval Wilson, was also happy for the victory.

He said: "I think we turned it up one notch in the second half. We went into the dressing room at half-time and we told them that we have to win this game; it was a very important game for the development of the club and they came out and put their best foot forward."

In a battle of survival - with Highgate second from bottom and Humble Lion one spot above prior to the encounter - the first half was evenly contested, with action swinging from either ends.

Humble Lion, however, looked more threatening with Jermaine Christian creating havoc down the left flank and the hard running skipper, Omando McCloud, adding much punch upfront.

The home team came close in the 25th minute when Kimroy Davis was sent clear on the left flank and after taking some touches forward, sent a grounder flying, which hit the upright with the Highgate goalkeeper beaten all ends up.

HUNGRY LIONS

The second half saw the Lions looking hungrier for an opening goal, as the May Pen-based team attacked with greater numbers.

They came close in the 68th minute when second-half subsitute Denzil 'Harry Bulla' Watson was sent clear on goal. However, his low shot was blocked by the advancing Highgate custodian, Evans.

Humble Lion continued to dominate for the remainder of the game and even though Highgate showed heart throughout, the St Mary team was left to curse its luck after Pascoe was given room to produce a wonder strike that gave his team all three points.

Humble Lion now have 22 points, while Highgate remained on 16.