Ilhan Fandi’s header from Diogo Costa’s left-wing cross was comfortably gathered by Tai Po goalkeeper Tse Ka Wing as the visitors had an early sight of the target while Bailey Wright steered a header wide as the visitors took control.

But for all their dominance, Lion City Sailors were struggling to find a way through the well-drilled and disciplined Tai Po defence.

Wright saw his low drive through the defence blocked by Tai Po’s Leo Rigo while Song Ui-young’s curling strike from 20 yards out beat Tse Ka Wing only to clip the top of the crossbar and bounce to safety.

The Sailors continued to probe after the resumption with Hugo Gomes’ downward header from Giovanni Haag’s corner bouncing wide while Ilhan attempt was deflected wide for another set piece for the visitors.

It was from that corner that the visitors went in front. Haag’s delivery from the Sailors’ left was flicked on by Toni Datkovic from inside the six-yard box with Phaeton taking the slightest of touches to steer the ball home.

Ilhan’s efforts to add a second were blocked while Bart Ramselaar looped his shot over the bar.

While Lion City Sailors were on top, Mark Jackson’s side were at risk while their lead remained so slender.

With 18 minutes remaining, substitute Wallisson Bahia’s curling effort was only marginally wide while moments later the Lion City defence was forced to scramble clear as another inviting ball across the face of goal by Wallisson caused panic in the backline.

Tai Po’s Paulinho Simionato shot wide of Victor Aznar’s right post with an effort on the run with four minutes remaining while Diogo Costa and Antonio Mance squandered late opportunities to put the result beyond doubt, but Lion City secured the win.