MAGPIES Crusaders United have come from behind in the second half to secure a vital three points with a 5-3 win over Redlands United in Mackay on Saturday night. Redlands got off to the best possible start as the Magpies Crusaders gave away a penalty which Alex Warrilow slotted into the net.
Magpies Crusaders started to settle into the game and had opportunities in front of goal but were unable to convert chances which allowed Redlands to capitalise.
Redlands had the opportunity to double the lead with a free kick as the ball put into the box went untouched but it went wide. However, Redlands did not have to wait long to have another golden chance but this time they were more clinical.
From a corner, it was out over the back with a flying header from Warrilow who put it past Magpies Crusaders goalkeeper Mitchell Wright who was able to get his fingers to it in an attempt to save it.
Redlands added a third before halftime as defender Billy Hobbs got a foot onto the end of a free kick after it was deflected by Magpies Crusaders captain Michael Lyall.
The second half saw Magpies Crusaders come out rearing to go as they had a big chance to get off the mark as Lyall headed a cross back into the centre of the box but it was a swing and a miss.
Their pressure on the Redlands defence paid off as Kyle Markham received a pass at the top of the box on the counter and slotted it past Andrew Ralph in a one-on-one.
Magpies Crusaders continued and had their second a minute later with a free kick from Lyall. Magpies levelled the game through Markham before taking the lead two minutes later after the original shot from Magpies was blocked by Redlands just before the goal line but the ball went up and dropped for Lyall who hit a half volley.
The three points were all but sealed for Magpies when a cross came into the box as a header from Magpies was put right in front of Ralph which rebounded off him and in front of Markham for his double.
Redlands are back at the Cleveland Showgrounds this Friday night as they take on reigning NPL Queensland Champions Western Pride.
