Shiffman helps Haroldeans close in on MJSL title

With an eight-point buffer over second-placed Reich Blue, Mike Bloomberg’s men now have one hand on the trophy.

Bloomberg said: “Considering we came close to folding after last season, it’s a tribute to the attitude of the players shown so far that we are in this position. It’s in our hands but nothing is done and dusted yet.

“We have some tough away game looming and some other teams will be looking to knock us off our perch. But this was another important win against a strong side who pushed us all the way.

“Adam will make the headlines but Paul Harris and Adam Boyars were outstanding in midfield while Maxim Green changed the game for us.”

In a topsy-turvy game it was substitute Green who played a key role. Yoni Shadmi had bagged a brace and Andy Shaffer also struck to leave the game in the balance. But Green scored Haroldeans’ third goal and set up Shiffman to complete his treble.

Reich White appear to have blown their big chance but player-manager Michael Gaswirth is refusing to hoist the white flag.

He said: “We were again missing some key players but that’s no excuse. We had chances to take something out of the game. We missed opportunities, should have won a first-half penalty and had an effort cleared off the line with the last kick of the game.

“I was proud of the performance and how we have progressed since the start of the season. And we still have everything to play for. I believe Haroldeans will drop points and we still have to play them at home at the end of next month.

“The title is far from over, although this does make it more difficult for us now."

Reich Insurance Blue’s title bid appears over after falling to a 2-1 loss at Maccabi Manchester Blue.

Reich led via Rafi Leeker before Ben Gould and Jimmy Castle struck for the hosts. Top-scorer Adam Wilson’s red card made it a day to forget for Stuart Delmonte’s men.