Image: Stock

Harimau Muda ‘A’ moved to eighth in the NPL Queensland standings on Wednesday night following a gritty 1-0 win over Northern Fury at Townsville Sports Reserve.

The clinical finishing of Adam Nor Azlin proved the difference between the two sides, breaking the deadlock late in the second half.

Northern Fury  - who, due to injury and illness in the senior squad, fielded six Under 17 players – saw the better of the attacking chances throughout the contest but proved unable to take advantage.

The host’s best opportunity came just prior to half time when the club’s leading goal scorer, Braedyn Crowley, had a clear run to goal but shot too soon just outside penalty area.

Fury created further scoring chances through Crowley, Corey Waples and Kevin Fraser, but ultimately lacked the punch required in the final third.

Harimau Muda goalkeeper Muhamed Firdaus Muhamed kept his side in the contest – saving both Crowley’s effort before half-time and a further one-on-one opportunity for Waples.

The visitor’s pounced in the 78^th minute courtesy of a long ball that saw Fury defender Mathieu Peyre beaten for pace by the fleet-footed Malaysian front men – Azlin ultimately finishing the movement with a composed finish through the legs of Fury goalkeeper Matthew Syme.

The win is the Malaysian side’s second against Fury this season and extends Fury’s run of losses at Townsville Spors Reserve to six games.

Fury will switch venues this Sunday as they look to recapture their home form against league-leaders Palm Beach Sharks at Brolga Park.

Ian Ferguson’s side is expected to be bolstered by the return of first team regulars Ari Isman and Jani Peut to the match day squad.

Northern Fury 0
Harimau Muda 'A' 1 (Adam Nor Azlin 78')