Final Roar For Cringila Lions

Illawarra Mercury

Saturday July 26, 2008

By JOEL RITCHIE

CRINGILA coach Icko Atanasoski and Dandaloo coach Rob Birkin agree that today's match at Dandaloo Sports Ground is the point of no return for Cringila's Illawarra Premier League hopes.

Although three-time defending champions Dandaloo (second, 38 points) are well-poised for a title run, Cringila (fifth, 34 points) need a win to keep their premiership flame burning.

"This is a must-win game for us, we can't afford a slip-up," Atanasoski said.

"If we don't get a result we will have to re-evaluate and see if we're going to win a challenge for the premiership or be also-rans.

Alan Lo Proto will return to Crini's starting side after coming off the bench in last week's 3-2 loss to Albion Park White Eagles.

Birkin echoed Atanasoski's comments about the game being a must-win for Cringila.

"If they don't get the three points that would be the end of their title aspirations," Birkin said.

"Cringila have a fine side, but we will be worrying about ourselves."

Christian Cevenini, who has a dislocated shoulder, is the only first-choice player missing for Dandaloo.

Also today, competition leaders Albion Park will host Picton Rangers at Terry Reserve.

Coniston Lions will host third-placed Port Kembla at JJ Kelly Park and Fernhill and Dapto will meet in a top-six clash at Dapto Showground.

Tarrawanna visit Wollongong United at Macedonia Park and Bulli visit cellar dwellers Warilla Wanderers at King Mickey Park.

All games kick off at 3pm.

© 2008 Illawarra Mercury

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