New signings provide spark for Highgate

Gareth Davis Sr, Gleaner Writer

A brace from Roberto Fletcher and a goal from Steve Green allowed coach Michael Smith to leave Lynch Park on Wednesday in a jubilant mood, following Highgate's 3-0 win over Harbour View in a Red Stripe Premier League encounter.

Fletcher's goals came in the 4th and 44th minute, respectively, while Green scored in the 12th minute.

"We played together as a team," said Smith. "The acquisition of Green and Fletcher via the transfer window is paying dividends. We also had two other players, and since their arrival the team spirit has been lifted. We are now scoring goals, which was our downfall, and with this new attitude, Highgate will rise."

Fletcher put Highgate into the lead after Green played a ball to him near the arc of the 18-yard box. Fletcher calmly controlled the ball before firing a powerful right-foot shot into the back of the net to give his team a one-nil lead.

Highgate continued to attack and when Green broke through on the left flank, before cutting inside the middle, it was obvious that a second goal was coming. Green easily disposed of two defenders before firing a cracker into the back of the net for a two-nil lead.

All hopes dashed

Any plans Harbour View had of staging a fight back was dashed, as Highgate showed total dominance through a series of attacks from Green, Fletcher, Damian James, Severo Murphy, Julian Nugent, who bombarded their defence with shots from all angles.

Highgate put the issue beyond doubt when Green, with his upper body covered in bandage, played a through pass to Fletcher, who disposed of two defenders before firing near the edge of the 16-yard box past the goalkeeper for a 3-0 lead on the stroke of half-time.

The onslaught continued in the second half as Highgate simply ran rings around their opponents.

Losing coach Donovan Hayles had high praise for the new-look Highgate team, who he said deserved to win after dominating the entire game.

"We came here expecting the three points," he said. "Instead, we were outplayed in all areas. Highgate looked good today, and I was really surprised at how they kept running. We lost the game even before we got here, as the guys were complaining of fatigue and tiredness. I cannot be too hard on them, as they played a tough semi-final recently, which they haven't yet recovered from."