Maitland Magpies look all but certain to progress to the Northern NSW First Division grand final after a comprehensive 4-0 defeat of Thornton on Saturday in the first leg of their semi-final.
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A week after the high of realising a 12-year-long goal of returning to top-flight football, Maitland could have been excused for a slight letdown in wet, wintery conditions at Thornton Park.
But under Graham Law’s leadership this season the Magpies have not needed to find too many excuses and it was more of the same against Thornton.
Roger Dowdell continued his strong late-season form with the opening goal, and defender Murray Leyland popped up to double the visitors’ lead to 2-0 at the break.
While Thornton tried to stage a resistance after the break it was Maitland who struck next through Corey Fletcher, before talisman Ben Martin sealed the result with a fourth late on.
Wet weather had forced coach Graham Law to schedule both training sessions indoors in the lead-up to the semi-final, and he praised his side’s ability to remain focused.
“Finals football is very different for me, even as a player, and you really need to try and change your approach and keep things fresh so it worked out well in the end,” he said.
“The guys were thoroughly professional and faultless and I think it really showed today.”
Law singled out the performance Martin up front and at the other end he highlighted the effort of Matt Stonham, who stood in for injured shot-stopper Benn Kelly.
“Honestly, the work rate from Benny (Martin) today was exceptional, he’s been tireless for weeks now and it’s just so important for us,” he said.
“For Matt Stonham to come in like he did was fantastic, and had no problems dealing with whatever came his way.”
Law admitted he “would be sensible with team selection” for the second leg, and could take the opportunity to rest players with niggling injuries.
Thornton coach Darrell McAllister was left frustrated at his side’s failure to capitalise on their chances.
“It was disappointing but in the end we probably weren’t good enough, simple as that,” he said.
“In the second half we had a couple of half chances that could have brought us back into the game, but we couldn’t take them.
“But Maitland are a good side and were very clinical, and that’s why they aren’t going to be in the division next year.”
Both sides will resume the tie next Sunday, with the second leg taking place at Cooks Square Park.