Alberton edge out CBC in 5-goal thriller

It was the visitors’ 14th win of the 18-game season.

John Mann’s side had a few changes from the 11 which clinched the title, with the coach admitting to have ”pulled some positions out of the hat”.

They raced into a commanding position, with Renato Lopes and Terrence Law handing them a two-goal cushion as they stamped their authority on the early exchanges.

Alberton’s positional game dictated the tempo of the match and stretched the local team, who were forced to chase the game before the break.

The half-time score was 2-0 to the visitors.

Much like in the first-half, the visitors were first out of the blocks in the second half, pushing players forward in search of the killer blow.

Mikey Potgieter put the match beyond CBC just inside the hour mark, with an impressive finish, following an enterprising build-up from the away side.

The home side refused to stay down, however, and lively fullback Gareth King ignited hope of a comeback when he finished a delightful cross with a diving header.

CBC’s comeback rally was given a further boost when a red card was issued to the away side in the latter stages of the half.

The goal had no negative effects on Alberton’s attacking prowess, but the next score would come from Glenn Brierley’s men.

Jona Wilcombe received the ball just outside the Alberton box and dribbled past two Alberton defenders to create space and unleash a low pearler for a sublime goal.

With the comeback in sight, the home side continued to probe with an all-out attack approach, but the match ultimately petered out, with Alberton taking maximum points.

“It was a competitive game,” said Mann.

“We beat CBC comfortably in the reverse match, but this one was really competitive.”

CBC skipper, Evan Partridge was upbeat, despite the loss.

“The game was played in great spirits,” he said.

“We gave a few players a run out in different positions.

“Against the league winners, we showed great determination to pull two goals back and were unlucky not to salvage a result, but, nonetheless, I’m proud of the way we chased the game.” – @SabeloBoksburg