Robin Hood scored set-piece headers either side of half-time to cancel out an early strike from Donavon Thompson in a 2-1 victory away to St George’s at Wellington Oval yesterday. Jason Titterton came up with the winner midway through the second period after Lejuan Simmons had levelled the scoring in the 25th minute.

Hood coach John Barry Nusum was naturally pleased with the Premier Division leaders a place in the semi-final.

“We controlled possession of the ball today, but struggled a bit in the final third,” Nusum said. “It was a tough game, but I’m pleased that we were able to come from behind and grind out a victory.”

St George’s were spirited in their approach and the First Division side were a goal up in three minutes through the hardworking Thompson.

Goalkeeper Timmy Figureido was unable to get enough on a clearance and the ball bounced kindly for the striker, who made no mistake.

The goal did not seem to rattle the Premier Division side, who were using the width of the pitch to their advantage.

Simmons and Mahzye Burchall were very lively on the wings and the pressure eventually paid off when Simmons glanced a Chris Caisey free-kick into the far corner in the 20th minute, to bring his team back on level terms.

Burchall then had a good opportunity to put his team ahead before the half, but pulled his shot wide of the upright from 12 yards out.

The miss could have been costly, as St George’s would have an even better opportunity to reclaim the lead five minutes into the second half. Another delivery into the Hood area fell to the feet of Jelani Carlington, but the midfielder blazed his effort over the bar from close range.

Hood, having dodged that bullet, were now starting to find more openings in the attacking third, and would eventually take the lead in the 58th minute. Titterton was first to a Simmons free kick, heading firmly past the goalkeeper.

The home team continued to work hard, but were dealt another blow in the 80th minute when Philip Anderson was sent off for a second bookable offence.

Both teams had late opportunities. Sage Paynter could not keep his effort down after breaking through on the counterattack, and substitute Shakir Smith’s chip sailed over the bar after he dribbled through the St George’s backline.

Hood were then able to see out the victory and claim their spot in the semi-final.