LTFC Match Report

22/11/08 Sutton Coldfield 2 - Leighton Town 1

reds@leightontownfc.co.uk — 2008-11-22T15:00:00+00:00

Sutton Coldfield 2 - 1 Leighton Town

After a terrific performance on Tuesday night against AFC Sudbury , Leighton travelled to the West Midlands to play a side that has been struggling for consistency after reaching the play-offs last season. Games between the two sides are usually close fought encounters and Town were expecting nothing less this time. Town wee forced to make one change from the game last Tuesday when young goalkeeper Grant Beckwith replaced Steve Root who has just become a father for the first time.

Town kicked off with a stiff wind at their backs and they won a corner in the very first minute. Scott Thomas drove the kick in from the left and Peter Clifford drove in a close range volley but Johnson in the home goal made a fabulous save to keep the scores level. Sutton Coldfield replied in the 4th minute and after some slack defending Beckwith made an excellent blocking save to foil Daniels.
Two minutes later Town won another corner and this time Peter Clifford met Thomas’ corner with a firm header to give Leighton the lead. Town were looking slightly the better of the two teams at this stage but Sutton created the next chance but Martin’s weak shot was easily gathered by Beckwith.
After 27 minutes the hosts created another chance when Milner crossed toi the far post but Martin’s header was saved comfortably by Beckwith. Town were still looking the better side but not really creating too many chances but Scott Thomas put a 25 yard effort just over the bar in one Town attack. In the 37th minute James Hatch showed great technique to create a chance for himself just outside the penalty area but to Town’s dismay his fierce shot struck the post and bounced clear.

In the 40th minute Charlie Cunningham lost the ball in midfield and Sutton broke quickly but Brown fired high over to the disappointment of the home fans. Three minutes after this an equaliser looked probable but a tremendous last ditch tackle by Craig Kench rescued the situation for Leighton.
A minute before the break Town could have had a second when Hatch powered a header towards goal but keeper Johnson just got his fingertips to the ball and diverted it in to the post and behind for a corner.
Sutton started the second half with a quick break but Daniels from a good position put his cross behind the goal and the opportunity was lost. Town were finding it harder in the second half as the hosts stepped up the pace, but James Hatch put a long range effort wide of the post in the 54th minute as Town looked for a vital second goal. Sutton went close from corner b ut a near post header went right across the face of the Town goal. The hosts equalised in the 63rd minute when Brown was allowed to turn and his fierce 25yard shot flew into the net with Beckwith well beaten.

Town seemed unable to get any momentum to their game and in the 70th minute they went behind when Brown laid , a pass into the path of Owen who put a low shot across the goal and into the far corner of the net.
Town introduced Aston Goss and Jamie O’Grady in an effort to save the game and in the 86th minute James Hatch created space and chipped the ball across goal but it was just a little too high for Ben Gallant who could not get full contact with his header and the ball went wide. Immediately after this Craig Kench had a chance but put his left footed effort wide of the near post.
With two minutes remaining Hatch laid the ball across the face of the goal but Jamie O’Grady from a good position 8 yards out blazed high over the bar and Town’s last chance for an equaliser disappeared.
This was definitely a game of two halves,Town will rue the two James Hatch efforts that hit the woodwork because if either had gone in Leighton would probably have taken the points. Over the course of the match the two sides were very evenly matched and despite Sutton’s improvement in the 2nd half Grant Beckwith in the Town goal never had to make a save but the hosts did score two decent goals and they took all the points..

TEAM: Beckwith, Cunningham, Cashman, Kench, Clifford, Howley, Thomas(Goss75), Silvestri, Gallant, Hatch, Gordon(O’Grady 85) .

SUB, Not used- McNulty.

Att:127

Leighton Reserves drew 1-1 with Camberley at Bell Close

Leighton’s Under 18’s continued their unbeaten run in the week with a 4-3 win at Leverstock Green. Manager Jamie Green’s side have now gone 7 games without a defeat. Goalscorers for Town were:

FIXTURES.
Tuesday 25th November 7:45 Southern League Cup Leighton Town v Bury Town
Saturday. 29th November Southern League 3pm. Soham Town Rangers Leighton Town
Saturday 29th November Suburban League 3pm Leighton Reserves v Beaconsfield SYCOB
Tuesday 2 December. Southern League: 7:45 Leighton Town v Chesham United

15/11/08 Leighton Town 2 - Bedworth United 1

reds@leightontownfc.co.uk — 2008-11-15T15:00:00+00:00

LEIGHTON TOWN 2 - 1 BEDWORTH UNITED
Town maintained their excellent run of home form on Saturday when they beat a good Bedworth team with a second half goal from Enzo Silvestri. Town knew that the visitors would provide a stern test as games between the sides are usually well contested, uncompromising matches and Saturday’s game continued this trend. Bedworth have shown some impressive form of late and Town named an unchanged team after Tuesday night’s win over local rivals Arlesey, with influential midfielder Wes Lewis still missing due to an ankle injury.
The visitors started the better of the two teams without creating any chances as Town took time to get into their stride and match the visitors tempo.
Bedworth went in front after 16 minutes when Town lost out in midfield and the visitors quickly broke down the flank before Germaine Gordon sent in a perfect ,deep cross and Lamb running in unmarked at the far post headed home from close range.
Town were working hard to match the intensity of the visitor’s performance and Ben Gallant ran onto a quick throw in from James Hatch but he delayed in getting his shot away and was forced wide by two defenders and the chance was lost.
Town were not to be denied however and a minute later the referee awarded a penalty for a trip on James Hatch. After lengthy protests from the visitors, Ben Gallant calmly stepped up and sent an unstoppable spot kick high into the corner the net with Kemp diving in the opposite direction.
The rest of the half was fiercely contested but neither side were able to create clear chances but Town could have gone in front three minutes before the break when Peter Clifford headed on a Leon Cashman long throw in but Leon Gordon stretching at the far post could only head the ball over the bar from close range.
Town started the second half in a more determined mood and Scott Thomas tried his luck from 25 yards but his rising shot flew a yard wide of the left hand post. Bedworth countered but this led to Town taking the lead with the best move of the game. Steve Root threw the ball to Charlie Cunningham who played the ball forward to Ben Gallant, he laid the ball back to Scott Thomas and his cross was cushioned by James Hatch into the path of Enzo Silvestri who did very well to knock the ball into the net despite the close attentions of a defender .
In the 73rd minute after a Bedworth corner kick Town again broke quickly through Hatch who fed the ball wide to Leon Gordon and his return pass looked to have set Hatch free but an excellent saving tackle took the weight off Hatch’s shot and Kemp was able to save comfortably. Three minutes later a good move by Town down their left flank saw Scott Thomas put in a deep cross but Ben Gallant at full stretch could not make enough contact with his attempted volley and the visitors cleared the danger.
In the 84th minute Leon Gordon fired in a fierce shot from the angle of the penalty area but Kemp did well to save at his near post and the keeper collected the ball at the second attempt.
Town then made another good break down their right flank but with Ben Gallant and James Hatch running into the penalty area waiting for the expected cross, Scott Thomas put his attempt behind for a goal kick.
Town then had a half chance when Kemp only partially kick the ball away from outside his area but Leon Gordon’s instinctive long range shot went high over the bar.
Bedworth kept going right to the end and Town had to defend desperately in the last minute to stop the visitors forcing an equaliser. Bedworth had Pringle dismissed for stamping on Enzo Silvestri just before the final whistle.
Town did well to take all three points against competent , competitive opponents in a match that at times resembled a cup-tie in its intensity but their improved second half showing earned them the points and Town fans will have to go back a long way to remember a better team goal than the second half effort which earned the win.
This was a good all round team performance by Town with Leon Gordon earning Man Of The Match honours for Town for his non- stop effort in both attack and defence.
TEAM: Root, Cunningham, Cashman, Kench, Clifford,Howley, Thomas, Silvestri, Gallant, Hatch, Gordon. Subs: not used : Lasbrey, Beckwith(GK),Denton, McNulty, Lindsay.
Att 128:
Leighton Under 18, gave a good performance last Thursday at Dunstable when they drew 1-1 with the hosts to extend their unbeaten run to 6 games. Louis Norton scored for Town.
Next FIXTURES:
TUESDAY 18TH NOVEMBER KO 7:45 LEIGHTON TOWN V AFC SUDBURY SOUTHERN LGE.
THURSDAY 20TH NOVEMBER KO7:45 LEVERSTOCK GREEN U18 V LEIGHTON TN.UNDER18
SATURDAY 22ND NOVEMBER 3PM SUTTON COLDFIELD V LEIGHTON TOWN SOUTHERN LGE.
TUESDAY 25th NOVEMBER 7:45 LEIGHTON TOWN v BURY TOWN SOUTHERN LGE CUP

08/11/08 Barton Rovers 1 - Leighton Town 2

reds@leightontownfc.co.uk — 2008-11-08T15:00:00+00:00

BARTON ROVERS 1 - 2 LEIGHTON TOWN

Leighton took all three points from local rivals Barton from a match where Town were always in control but failed to convert more of the numerous chances that they created particularly in the first half when they totally dominated possession and territory.
After the disappointment of their midweek loss a t Bury, Town needed to get back to winning ways and kicking down the slope they soon showed their attacking intentions. They won a corner in the 3rd minute and Leon Cashman’s kick was headed against the bar by Peter cLifford and Ben Gallant could only knock the rebound over the bar. Five minutes later after some good passing Ben Gallant knocked the ball past his marker but the ball ran away and Patching in the Barton goal was able to get to the loose ball first to deny the Town striker.
Barton’s first chance came from a corner but Steve Root made a good save only for the referee to award Town a free kick for pushing.
A few minutes later Town created another chance from a long throw but Leon Gordon’s shot was blocked by the home defence who were then able to clear the danger. Two minutes later Barton had a chance when O’Brien ran onto a through ball but then shot wide when well placed.
Leighton returned to the attack and Scott Thomas cut inside and his effort was blocked, Enzo Silvestri was first to the loose ball but his follow up shot unfortunately went straight at Patching.
In the 20th minute Town won a free kick just outside the box and a clever routine between Cashman, Gallant and Thomas saw the latter drive the ball low across the goal but nobody was able to get the vital touch. In the 23rd minute another long throw from Cashman created a chance for Leon Gordon but his shot went high over the bar. A minute later Gordon cut inside and his shot was well saved by Patching who pushed the ball round the post. In the 27th minute Leighton again went close when Peter Clifford stooped to get his head to a free kick but his effort hit the bar with the keeper well beaten by the looping header.
Barton went close in the 28th minute after a foul by Clifford on O’Brien, but the young striker headed the free kick wide of the target.
Town thought they should have had a penalty in the 33rd minute when a Ben Gallant ball across goal looked certain to be converted by Leon Gordon but the midfielder was brought down from behind with no contact on the ball, unfortunately for Town the officials decided that the challenge was good.
A minute later James Hatch drove right footed shot towards the near post but Patching again kept his side in the game by turning the ball round the post. In the 42nd minute Silvestri fed the ball to Gallant but his shot went way over the bar.
Just when it l looked as if the sides would go in level at the break Town took the lead. Hatch chased along pass from Cashman down the left and laid the ball across the edge of the penalty area to Scott Thomas who cut inside his marker and placed a left footed shot to Patching’s right. Although the keeper got his hand to the ball he could not stop it entering the net to open the scoring.
Kicking up the slope Town started the second half on the offensive and James Hatch shot just wide in the 50th minute after a pass from Silvestri. Scott Thomas shot over in Town’s next attack and two minutes later Thomas shot wide after receiving a pass from Hatch.
Barton’s chances were not helped in the 67thminute when defender Stuart Deaton was rightly dismissed for stupidly and deliberately elbowing Town keeper Steve Root in the face long after the keeper had caught a cross.
Eight minutes after the dismissal James Hatch created room for himself outside the box but then put his powerful shot just over the bar. Two minutes later Ben Gallant flicked the ball onto the outside of the post after some neat passing between Cashman and Gordon down the left.
In the 80th minute Barton were awarded a penalty and a possible point after a handball decision against Liam Howley. O’Brien who had looked the best Barton player on the day drove the kick into the net with Root diving the other way.
Leighton looked to have thrown two points away but with a couple of minutes remaining Enzo Silvestri picked up the ball on the edge of the box and sent a terrific shot over the keeper and into the top corner of the net to win the game for Town.
Town were worthy winners and Manager, Sean Downey was pleased with his team’s all round performance on a heavy pitch. He will be looking for a similar display against Arlesey Town on Tuesday night at Bell Close ko 7:45.

Team:
Root, Cunningham, Cashman, Lewis, Clifford, Howley, Thomas, Silvestri, Gallant, Hatch, Gordon.

Subs: Denton, Lasbrey, Lindsay, Kench, Beckwith(Gk) None Used

Bookings: Clifford, Lewis.

Att: 92

In midweek Leighton Town U 18 Beat Hitchin Town 6-2 Hitchin at Bell Close in their best performance of the season. Jamie Green’s young side have now won their last four games scoring 21 goals in the process.
On Saturday, Leighton Reserves lost 0-4 to Harefield in the Suburban League at Bell Close.

NEXT FIXTURES.
TUESDAY 11th November 7:45 BGB League Leighton Town v Arlesey Town
THURSDAY 13TH November 7:45 SCYFL. Dunstable U18 v Leighton U18.
SATURDAY 15TH NOVEMBER 3pm BGB League Leighton Tn. v Bedworth United
TUESDAY 18th NOVEMBER 7:45 BGB League Leighton Town v AFC Sudbury

04/10/08 Leighton Town 7 - Chipstead 1

reds@leightontownfc.co.uk — 2008-10-04T15:00:00+01:00

Two Hat Tricks put Town in ‘Trophy’ Seventh Heaven
FA Carlsberg Trophy
Leighton Town 7 - 1 Chipstead
After their disappointing performance last week in the FA CUP, Leighton returned to Cup action in The FA Trophy at Bell Close on Saturday against Ryman League, Chipstead in a match sponsored by the “Mortgage Practice of Leighton Buzzard.” Town played some good football particularly in the first half and this was their best win in an FA Competition since they beat Gorleston in the FA Vase in 1993. Town’s supporters in a disappointing crowd of just 88 were able to watch an entertaining performance from their side and with a little more luck and composure Town could easily have reached double figures as their dispirited opponents crumbled under a wave of constant attacks in the second half.
Town made three changes to last week’s side with James Hatch restored in attack in place of Dennis Fenemore, Charlie Cunningham replaced the unavailable James Lasbrey at right back and James McNulty replaced Scott Thomas in midfield.
Playing into the wind Town took time to settle and their first chance arrived in the 11th minute when they won two corners and from the second James McNulty got his head to the ball under pressure but his effort went wide. Four minutes later the visitors might have gone in front but the ball was flicked just wide of the far post. A minute later Chipstead were awarded a free kick just outside the penalty area but Enzo Silvestri did well to charge down the kick at the expense of a corner. From the place kick Wareing got in a good header which Lee Clark did well to tip around the post.
In the 20th minute Leon Cashman made an excellent break from defence and his powerful run took him past a couple of defenders before he passed the ball to Leon Gordon wide on the right. The midfielder’s low cross was knocked behind for a corner. Leon Cashman knocked in a good inswinging corner and Captain Peter Clifford rose well and headed the ball firmly into the net to give Town the lead. Four minutes later James Hatch shot just over with a good effort from the edge of the area. Town should have increased their lead in the 27th minute when a good move involving Charlie Cunningham and Ben Gallant saw the striker back heel the ball into the path of James McNulty but his fierce shot went wide of the near post. In the 31st minute an excellent 30 yard effort from Aslan flew just wide of the post as the visitors went looking for the equaliser. Town replied a couple of minutes later but Peter Clifford’s header from a corner drew an easy save from Wastell in the visitors goal. Town did get a deserved second in the 39th minute when Enzo Silvestri drove a shot across the keeper and although the ball was going in Delaney helped it on its way into the net. In the 43rd minute Chipstead created another chance but Fleming’s header was easily caught by Lee Clark.
In the 45th minute Town scored a third when Wastell was unable to hold Leon Cashman’s fierce low shot and the alert James Hatch was on hand to fire the loose ball into the net.
Chipstead had the first effort of the second half but full back Fleming shot over from 20 yards. In the 57th minute town had a half chance but James McNulty put his volley way over the bar.
Town were not to be denied however and two minutes later scored their fourth when James Hatch stole the ball off Wareing ran on and then prodded the ball low past the keeper. Two minutes later Hatch scored his third and Town’s fifth when Ben Gallant played a clever pass through the defence and Hatch confidently flicked the ball high into the net with the keeper well beaten. Chipstead now looked completely disorganised and demoralised and three minutes later Enzo Silvestri drove home a left footed shot from close range to make it six. Town were now constantly on the attack and a good move involving Leon Gordon and Peter Clifford saw Ben Gallant shoot just over. Town made two substitutions in the 68th minute when Craig Kench and James Gray came on for James Hatch and Wes Lewis who left the field to generous applause.
Two minutes later Gallant created a chance for Gray who almost made an immediate impact but his shot hit the top of the bar and went behind for a goal kick. Immediately afterwards Ben Gallant broke away from the defence but the keeper made the save as Gallant tried to take the ball round him. Against the run of play Chipstead scored a consolation goal in the 74th minute through Oxley as Town temporarily lost concentration in defence. Town returned to the attack and Leon Gordon centred low towards Ben Gallant who got in a diving header but it lacked the necessary power and direction to beat the keeper.
Aslan then fired in a fierce effort for Chipstead in the 83rd minute but this was deflected behind for a corner which Town cleared easily. Town then created another chance when Gray fed Gallant but his shot passed just wide of the far post. In the last minute Enzo Silvestri volleyed in Town’s seventh and his own third to end the scoring although Gallant had another opportunity seconds before the final whistle.
This was a good all round team performance from Leighton especially after last week’s disappointment. Charlie Cunningham gave a superb display after his long absence with a broken leg and James Hatch showed his qualities as a goal scorer and was voted Man of the Match. Town will now play Bury Town on 18th October at Bury St. Edmunds in the next round.
Team: Clark, Cunningham, McNulty, Lewis(Kench68), Clifford, Howley, Gordon, Silvestri, Gallant, Hatch(Gray68), Cashman(Chapman77) Subs: Root. Fenemore. Not used.
ATT: 88
Fixtures:
Wednesday: 8th October 2008. SCYFL ko 7:45 Leighton U18 v Dunstable U18
Saturday 11th October 2008 BGB League ko 3pm Stourport Swifts v Leighton Town
Suburban League Sandhurst v Leighton Town Reserves
Saturday 18th October 2008 ko 3pm FA Trophy Bury Town v Leighton Town
Town will run a coach to Stourport on Saturday. If you want to travel on the coach please add your name to the list in the Clubhouse. Price £8.

27/09/08 Leighton Town v Crowborough Athletic

reds@leightontownfc.co.uk — 2008-09-27T15:00:00+01:00

Leighton Town 0 - 1 Crowborough Athletic
After the excitement of last year’s FA Cup success Leighton came down to earth with a bang at Bell Close on Saturday when their visitors from the Ryman League South knocked them out of this year’s competition with their first effort on goal during an uninspiring match.
Town were forced to make changes to their line up when James Hatch was ruled unfit and he was replaced by Dennis Fenemore in attack. Wes Lewis returned in midfield at the expense of the unlucky James McNulty.
After an edgy start from both teams Town created the first good chance of the game after a move involving four players saw the ball moved the whole length of the pitch. Ben Gallant showed some excellent footwork to create a chance for himself but he then dragged his left footed shot wide of the post.
After this neither side created anything in attack until the 28th minute when a deep cross by full back David Soutar found the unmarked Gavin Gordon who from 12yards headed over Lee Clark and into the net to give the visitors the lead. Leighton will be annoyed to have conceded a goal when they had three defenders in the box and the striker still managed to find space to get a free header. Six minutes after the goal Town should have been awarded a penalty when Harris handled the ball at least a yard inside the left hand edge of the penalty area, but the match officials inexplicably decided the offence had been committed outside the box
The rest of the half was a scrap affair with Town giving away possession too easily and this prevented then developing any tempo as they looked for an equaliser.
Town started the second half at a better pace and after five minutes Leon Gordon flashed a fierce shot just over the bar after a Town had won a corner. Two minutes later Enzo Silvestri headed wide from another corner. In the 55th minute Town won a free kick on the left but Scott Thomas’s free kick went straight over everyone and out for a goal kick. This just about summarised Town’s lack of quality on the day particularly from set pieces. Two minutes later Enzo Silvestri shot at goal but his effort took a huge deflection and was easily caught by Pickworth in the visitor’s goal. Town’s next effort came from a James Lasbrey free kick but this curled over both the defensive wall and the crossbar.
Despite making two substitutions Town could not find an equaliser and the visitors comfortably held out for their win and a place in the third qualifying round.
The match lacked real quality and the only player who seemed happy on the ball was Crowborough midfielder Luke Gedling. Neither keeper had to make a save in the match and this tells its own story. Town had some decent individual performances but collectively they were unable to repeat some of their earlier performances and this has cost them a place in the next round.

Team: Clark, Lasbrey, Cashman, Lewis, Clifford, Howley, Gordon( Goss71), Silvestri(McNulty89), Gallant, Fenemore, Thomas(Hatch81). Subs: ( Not used) Chapman, Lanham
Att: 161

Town now turn their attentions to the other FA competition when they entertain Chipstead from the Ryman League at Bell Close next Saturday ko 3pm.
Midweek Fixture Under 18
Wednesday 1st October 7:45 Tring Athletic v Leighton Town Under
Saturday 4 th October 3pm Beaconsfield v Leighton Reserves Suburban League

20/09/08 Malvern Town 2 - 2 Leighton Town

reds@leightontownfc.co.uk — 2008-09-20T15:00:00+01:00

MALVERN TOWN 2 - 2 LEIGHTON TOWN
Leighton travelled to Worcestershire on Saturday to take on bottom of the table Malvern but a poor first half display in which they conceded a goal in the opening two minutes put them on the back foot for most of the first 45 minutes.
Town were forced to change their midfield formation when Wes Lewis withdrew through injury and he was replaced in central midfield by James McNulty.
On a beautiful late summer afternoon Town suffered an early setback when the hosts scored after only 2 minutes, a cross from the left was met by Mussell and his glancing header entered the net off the far post with Town keeper Lee Clark a mere spectator. Town could have gone further behind after 16 minutes when Morris turned sharply and drove his shot against the post but fortunately for Leighton the ball rebounded into the arms of keeper Lee Clark. Town’s first attack came in the 22nd minute when after a good bout of passing they won a corner, but this was easily cleared by the hosts. A few minutes later Ben Gallant played in James Hatch but his shot which lacked power never troubled the keeper. Town’s next opportunity again fell to Hatch in the 35th minute when Leon Cashman played him the ball but after turning well he finished poorly. Four minutes later following Town’s best move off the half Leon Gordon cut in from the left and fired in a low shot which home keeper, Humphries tipped around the post at full stretch. Five minutes before the interval Malvern win a free kick on the half way line and Paddock tried to score directly from the kick which Clark watched pass harmlessly over his crossbar. Town went straight up the other end and Ben Gallant turned and shot but his shot went over the bar. Town should have been awarded a penalty just before the break when Aston Goss beat two men and was then fouled inside the box but the referee decided otherwise and blew for half time.
Town looked more determined at the start of the a second half Ben Gallant and James Lasbrey combined down the right before Lasbrey crossed into the box but James McNulty was unable to direct his header on target. In the 55th minute Leon Cashman drove in a diagonal cross but James Hatch at the far post put his shot into the side netting.
Town did not have to wait long for an equaliser however and in the 57th minute following a long throw by Leon Cashman, Peter Clifford back headed the ball towards goal and Enzo Silvestri darted in to head the ball past the keeper. Town were easily the better team at this stage but just 5 minutes later the referee awarded Malvern a penalty for some obscure offence that puzzled most of the spectators and players alike. The spot kick was well struck but Lee Clark diving to his right made the save for the second time in consecutive games, to keep Town on level terms.
Town went in front for the first time after 69 minutes when after some good work by Ben Gallant down the right he drove the ball low across the face of the goal and Leon Gordon running in at the far post side footed the ball past Humphries. Malvern apart from the penalty had not really posed a threat in the second half but in the 77th minute substitute Malins drove into the side netting to remind Town that the game was not secure.
In the 80thminute Town attacked and Dennis Fenemore broke through on goal but was tripped by Kings who despite being the last man was allowed to remain on the pitch by the referee.
Leon Cashman struck the free kick well and Humphries was only able to push the ball up into the air but as Ben Gallant tried to get his head to the loose ball the keeper grabbed the ball just in time.
Five minutes later the hosts drew level in somewhat fortuitous fashion, Town gave the ball away deep in the Malvern half and a long ball was driven deep into the heart of the Town defence and Liam Howley did well to get his head to the ball but he then slipped as he went for the loose ball and Morris was able to lift the ball over Clark and into the net for the equaliser.
Despite their best efforts Town were unable to get a winner and had to settle for a single point despite their domination of the second half.
Team: Clark, Lasbrey, Cashman, McNulty, Clifford, Howley, Gordon(Lanham 77), Silvestri, Gallant, Hatch(Fenemore57), Goss.
Subs: (Not used) Chapman, Scott, Thomas.
Att. 75.

NEXT FIXTURES.
FA Youth Cup 23rd September 7:45 Rushden & Diamonds v Leighton Under 18
SATURDAY 27th September 3pm FA CUP Leighton Town v Crowborough Athletic
SATURDAY 27th SEPTEMBER 3pm Suburban League Cup Northwood Res. v Leighton Reserves
SATURDAY 4th October FA Carlsberg Trophy LEIGHTON TOWN v CHIPSTEAD .

13/09/08 Stotfold 0 - 3 Leighton Town

reds@leightontownfc.co.uk — 2008-09-13T15:00:00+01:00

FA CUP
Stotfold 0 - 3 Leighton Town
Leighton made the short journey across Bedfordshire on Saturday to play Stotfold hoping to
make further progress at the expense of their United Counties League opponents. The last time the two teams met was at Luton in May when Stotfold beat Leighton to win the Bedfordshire Senior Cup.
Town had to make changes from the team that drew with Chasetown last week due to injury and unavailability. Sam Chapman replaced James Lasbrey at full back, Leon Cashman replaced the injured Jack Copson at left back and new signing Aston Goss came into the side on the left of the midfield .
On a very warm afternoon the hosts created the first chance from a corner but Lee Clark was alert to the danger and made a good save from Beckwith.
The game was very scrappy in the early stages with neither team in the ascendancy and lots of misplaced passes but Leighton took the lead in the 17th minute. Following a long throw from Leon Cashman, Town captain, Peter Clifford back headed over keeper Gilham and into the far corner of the net.
A few minutes after the goal Stotfold had a good chance to draw level following a free kick but Bryant sliced his shot wide from close range and Town retained their lead.
Town replied through Goss in the 26th minute but his long range effort lacked power. Town increased their lead in the 33rd minute when Goss ran forward before sliding a clever pass between two defenders for James Hatch. Despite the best efforts of Paul Donnelly to pull him down Hatch showed good strength and ran on to take the ball past the keeper and then stroked in home for his first Town goal. Four minutes later Goss was again involved and was fouled just outside the box but Leon Gordon’s free kick was saved comfortably by Gilham.
Stotfold had a great chance to get back into the game in the 43rd minute when the referee who had an excellent match awarded the hosts a penalty. Paul Donnelly took the kick but his fierce left footed effort went straight at Lee Clark who made the save. Right at the break James Hatch had an effort blocked by the keeper and Ben Gallant’s follow up was delected for a corner.
Stotfold knew it was not going to be their day after 15 minutes of the second half when they had Taylor sent off for pulling back James Hatch. Despite their protests the referee had no other option as the defender was the last man.
Just after this a good move between Cashman and Gordon saw the latter’s low cross pass right across the goal without anyone getting a touch. Town were well on top now and Hatch laid the ball off for Silvestri but his well struck shot was blocked by the defence.
In the 77th minute Clark in the Town goal had to make his first save of the half when he collected Mitchell’s shot. Two minutes later Town extended their lead when substitute, Dennis Fenemore pulled the ball back to Hatch who stroked it home for his second and Town’s third.
Despite this setback Stotfold kept battling and in the 84th minute Lee Clark was forced to tip the ball around the post after a headed effort from a free kick.
Town were able to see out the remainder of the game with comfort and they now await Monday’s draw with eager anticipation.
This was not a terrific game for the spectators but as in all Cup competitions the result is all that matters and Town will be now be hoping for a home draw in the next round.
Stotfold as expected worked hard and competed throughout even when down to ten men.

Team: Clark, Chapman, Cashman, Lewis, Clifford, Howley, Gordon, Silvestri, Gallant, Hatch, Goss
Subs: Root, McNulty(Silvestri 89), Fenemore(Gallant 72), Lanham(Goss 76)
Attendance 101

Leighton Reserves lost 0-1 at Bell Close to Hampton & Richmond in the Suburban League.
FIXTURES
Tuesday 16th September Suburban League ko 7:45 Leighton Res. V Berkhamsted Reserves.
Saturday 20th September. Southern League ko 3pm
Malvern Town v Leighton Town.
Any fans wishing to travel to Malvern on the Team Coach can add their names to the travel list in the Club Bar. Price £8-00 Departure. 11am

06/09/08 Leighton Town 1 - 1 Chase Town

reds@leightontownfc.co.uk — 2008-09-06T15:00:00+01:00

Leighton Town 1 - 1 Chasetown
Town entertained Chasetown at Bell Close on Saturday knowing that this was likely to be one of their most difficult home fixtures of the season. Games between the two sides have always been close and Town knew that they would have to be at or near their best to gain any reward from the game.
Despite the recent inclement weather the pitch looked in superb condition and Town who were unchanged from last week at Tilbury kicked off with the wind at their backs. The game started at a frantic pace. Town were awarded a free kick after just 4 minutes but Jack Copson wsted the kick by curling his shot way over the bar. Chasetown immediately replied and Lee Clark had to push Perrow’s shot around the post for a corner. From the resulting kick Clark made an easy save from Thomas’ headed effort.
Chasetown took the lead with a highly dubious goal in the 12 th minute . Branch swung a free kick into the area and Liam Howley could only head the ball up into the air, as keeper Lee Clark went for the ball three Chasetown players charged the keeper and the ball into the net.Everyone at that end of the ground was expecting Town to be awarded a free kick but the referee and his assistant decided that no foul had been committed.( Nat Lofthouse and Harry Gregg will recall a similar decision) in the 19858 Cup Final.
Despite this early setback Town came straight back at the visitors and in the 15th minute Town were awarded a free kick out on the left. James Lasbrey swung in the kick and Town were awarded a penalty for handball by Teesdale . Ben Gallant stepped up and coolly slotted the ball into the corner of the net after sending Price the wrong way.
Chasetown were awarded a free kick just outside the box in the 25th minute after a foul by Enzo Silvestri, Harris’s fierce free kick was well turned away by Clark diving to his left. Chasetown were looking threatening and five minutes later Branch curled in a free kick but Teesdale put his header over the bar. Town were forced to make a substitution when James McNulty replaced the injured Howley in the 35th minute
Just before the break Perrow created a chance for himself when he cut in from the right and fired in a powerful left footed shot which Lee Clark did well to deflect over the bar. From the resulting corner kick Perrow pulled away from his marker but then put his header over the bar.
After the high tempo of the first half it was no surprise that the game slowed a little and Town had the first chance of the half when some excellent work by James Hatch set up Leon Gordon but his shot was well saved by Price diving low to his left.
A few minutes later Mark Branch fired in a long range effort for Chasetown but this swung wide of the far post. In the 62nd minute the Chasetown captain, John Branch was left unmarked at the far post but Lee Clark was out quickly to smother his shot and then collect the loose ball.
Onokah then tried his luck from long range for the visitors but his effort was deflected for a corner, which was headed wide by the striker.
Town were applying lots of pressure to the visitors defence but not creating any clear cut chances, but Scott Thomas fired in a fierce shot from just outside the box which hit a defender before being kicked clear. In the 83rd minute Leon Gordon fired in a fierce shot but this was headed away by Thomas. Just before the end of the game some clever interplay between Ben Gallant and Dennis Fenemore set the latter free but his shot was well smothered by Price to deny Town a winner.
This was an excellent performance by Sean Downey’s side who matched their visitors stride for stride and a draw was probably a fair result in a match which the crowd thoroughly enjoyed.
This was probably Town’s best performance of the season so far, their defence well marshalled throughout by Peter Clifford looked solid and Wes Lewis after missing most of last season through a bad knee injury gave a superb display in midfield and looked back to his very best. Ben Gallant gave his usual high energy display up front .
TEAM: Clark, Lasbrey, Copson(Thomas68), Lewis, Clifford, Howley(McNulty35)Gordon, Silvestri Gallant, Hatch(Fenemore67), Cashman.
SUBS: O’Grady, Root,
ATT: 158
Leighton Reserves drew 3-3 with Fleet Town on Saturday . With a limited squad this was probably their best display so far this season. Goal scorers were Denton , Goss and Scott.

FIXTURES
SATURDAY 13th September ko 3pm FA CUP Stotfold v Leighton Town (Replay Tuesday 7:45 if required)
Leighton Reserves v Hampton & Richmond Suburban League 3pm

TUESDAY 16th September ko 7:45 Leighton Reserves v Berkhamstead Suburban League

Saturday 20th September ko 3pm BGB League Malvern Town v Leighton Town
Saturday 27th September ko 3pm BGB League Stourport Swifts v Leighton Town
Town will be running a coach to Malvern and Stourport any fans wishing to travel can add their name to the travel list in the Club Bar Price: £8

30/08/08 Tilbury 0 - 2 Leighton Town

reds@leightontownfc.co.uk — 2008-08-30T15:00:00+01:00

FA CUP PRELIMINARY ROUND

Tilbury 0 - 2 Leighton Town

After their successful FA Cup run last season Leighton travelled to Essex on Saturday hoping to make a winning start to this years campaign but they knew it would not be easy against a Tilbury side who have made a decent start to their season in the Ryman League Division One South.
Town made one change to the team that won at Marlow with Wes Lewis replacing Craig Lanham in central midfield.
In the 4th minute Tilbury had a chance when a through ball bounced high over Lee Clark but Town defenders were able to divert Stowe’s effort behind for a corner. After 10 minutes Stowe showed some excellent skills to leave three Town defenders trailing in his wake but Jack Copson covered at the expense of a corner.
Town replied and Lon Gordon drove a cross towards the edge of the 18yard box and Ben Gallant got up well but his headed effort went well over the bar. Three minutes after this Town won a free kick just outside the box but James Lasbrey’s ree kick was diverted for a corner. Tilbury were having more of the possession at this stage but did not pose any threats to the Town goal. Leighton had a good chance in the 27th minute when Peter Clifford could not get his quite direct his header on target after a free kick from Jack Copson. Three minutes after this Leon Gordon cut in from the right at pace and unleashed a tremendous left footed shot which looked bound for the top corner but Hall in the Tilbury goal made a magnificent save to keep the scores level.
In the next minute Leighton had another chance but Peter Clifford at the far post headed a corner wide. Hodge replied with a 20yarder for Tilbury but this sailed well wide. Just before the break Town had another wonderful chance to open the scoring when Leon Cashman raced onto Enzo Silvestri’s through ball but his lob over the keeper went inches the wrong side of the post. In the last seconds of the half James Hatch rose well to reach Jack Copson’s free kick but his headed effort lacked power and was easily gathered by the keeper.
Tilbury had te first attempt of the second half when Lee Clark in the Town gal had to push a 25yard effort to one side and ten minutes later Tilbury had a chance from a free kick but Stowe glanced his header wide.
In the 5th minute Sean Downey brought on Denis Fenemore for James Hatch and within seconds Town had taken the lead with a wonderful goal by Ben Gallant.
The young striker controlled the ball with his back to goal then spun to his right and fired a fierce left footed shot high into the net from 23 yards with Hall well beaten
In the 78th minute a good move involving Fenemore and Copson saw Gallant outjump the home defence but his effort carried no real threat to the home goal.
Town made a second substitution in the 80th minute when Scott Thomas replaced Leon Cashman and within 5 minutes Leighton had doubled their lead and effectively killed off the tie. Town won a corner on the left and Thomas’ kick went past every Leighton player but Cohen trying to avoid the ball could only head the ball into his own net to the disgust of his team mates.
A minute later Dennis Fenemore ran through on goal and his left footed shot curled just wide of the far post.
Town Manager Sean Downey was not happy with his teas first half display but they looked far more cohesive in the second half and Tilbury only troubled Lee Clark once during the whole match. Town as usual looked solid at the back and this gave them the platform to go on and win the game. Once Gallant had given Town the lead Tilbury never looked capable of winning the tie and town comfortably saw time out.
Referee Mr Harris of Maidstone deserves a mention or his excellent display

Town will now play Stotfold in the next round a t Stotfold on 13th September.

TEAM:
Clark, Lasbrey, Copson, Lewis, Clifford, Howley, Gordon, Silvestri, Gallant, Hatch, Cashman.
Subs: McNulty(Silvestri89),Thomas(Cashman80), OGrady, Fenemore(Hatch65), Lanham

Att.57

Town face a very difficult match next Saturday at Bell Close when they entertain FA Cup giant killers, Chasetown, who must be regarded as one of the favourites for promotion from the BGB Midland Division.

Town Reserves lost 0-4 at home Bracknell Town in the Suburban League.

FIXTURES

Tuesday 2nd September ko 7:45 SUBURBAN LEAGUE
NORTHWOOD v LEIGHTON RESERVES.

SAT 6th September ko 3pm
Leighton Town v Chasetown BGB Midland

23/08/08 Leighton Town 1 - 1 Bromsgrove Rovers

reds@leightontownfc.co.uk — 2008-08-23T15:00:00+01:00

LEIGHTON TOWN 1 - 1 BROMSGROVE ROVERS
Leighton had to share the points on Saturday at Bell Close in a match they perfectly foitted the description of a’Game of Two Halves’. Leighton were the better side in the first half but Bromsgrove seemed to find new energy after the interval and it was the visitors who dominated the second half although Lee Clark in the Town goal was only really forced to make one save.
Manger Sean Downey made three changes to the side that beat Woodford on Tuesday night, Skipper Peter Clifford was restored to central defence in place of Sam Chapman, Lee Clark who has returned to the Club replaced SteveRoot in goal and new signing Craig Lanham was chosen in preference to Scott Thomas in midfield.
After a tentative first ten minutes from both sides Town started to get their game together and in the 18th minute after Enzo Silvestri was fouled just outside the penalty area, James Lasbrey curled his free kick past the wall but also just past the near post. A couple of minutes later Ben Gallant was pulled down about 8yards outside the area and Lasbrey once more tried his luck with a curling effort but his well struck free kick again went wide of the post.
In the 23rd minute following a throw in Ben Gallant jumped well to win the ball but unfortunately for Town his looping header was off target.
Town were looking far better than the visitors at this stage and following a good four man passing sequence Craig Lanham tried his luck from just outside the box but his effort was blocked by the visitors defence. In the 30th minute Town missed a golden opportunity to take the lead, Enzo Silvestri started the move when he won the ball with an excellent tackle in midfield and fed the ball to Leon Gordon who laid it off to Ben Gallant, unfortunately for Leighton, Gallant’s low ball across the face of the goal went straight past three defenders but also past the incoming Silvestri who was unmarked but probably unsighted only 4 yards from the visitors goal.
Town remained on the offensive and a few minutes later the industrious Silvestri won the ball in the air but there was insufficient power in his effort and the ball was easily collected by Dormand.
Town very nearly went in front in the 40th minute when a fiercely struck shot from the corner of the penalty area by James Hatch flew a couple of inches off target with the keeper well beaten.
In the last minute of the half just as it looked like ending scoreless Leon Gordon and James Hatch combined down the Town left and Hatch’s ball across was neatly tucked away by the alert Gallant.
HT 1-0
Bromsgrove must have received a rocket from their manager during the interval because they certainly looked a different side in the second half without giving the Town defence too many problems.

Town were unable to keep possession and the visitors stepped up the pressure and with 18 minutes remaining they scored an equaliser when Town failed to clear their lines and the ball fell to Birley who drove it straight into the net. Two minutes later an effort from Jermaine Clarke flew just over as the visitors looked for a winner. Lee Clark was also forced to make a save with his leg from the same player.
Most of the spectators in the ground agreed that a draw was the fairest result but Town will be disappointed that they could not duplicate their superiority after the interval.
Leighton have now played two of the League’s bigger clubs in Nuneaten and Bromsgrove and have done well in both games however defensive errors have cost them points in both games and they will be hoping for better at Marlow on Monday.
TEAM. Clark, Lasbrey, Cashman, Lewis(McNulty89), Clifford, Howley, Lanham(Thomas 80), Silvestri, Gallant, Hatch(O’Grady80), Gordon.
Subs: Thomas, Chapman, Copson, McNulty, O’Grady
Attendance: 114
Town’s reserve side travelled to Camberley with a depleted side and paid a high p[rice when they were beaten 5-1. Dennis Fenemore scored a superb 25 yarder for Town’s consolation goal.
FIXTURES.
Monday 25th August ko 3pm Marlow v Leighton BGB LEAGUE
Tuesday 26th August ko 7:45 Leighton Reserves v Newport Pagnell SUBURBAN LEAGUE
Saturday 30th August ko 3pm Tilbury v Leighton FA CUP
Saturday 30th August ko3pm Leighton Reserves v Bracknell SUBURBAN LEAGUE
Saturday 6th Sept ko 3pm Leighton Town v Chasetown BGB LEAGUE
There are still a few seats left on the coach for the trip to Tilbury. Anyone wanting to travel should add their name to the list in the Club Bar.

16/08/08 Nuneaton Town 2 - 1 Leighton Town

reds@leightontownfc.co.uk — 2008-08-16T15:00:00+01:00

NUNEATON TOWN 2 - 1 LEIGHTON TOWN

Town started their League Season with a trip to Nuneaton on Saturday and if it had not been for two defensive mistakes they would have returned with a well deserved point for their efforts.
Nuneaton who were in the Conference North last season were relegated 2 divisions after going into Administration but are one of the strongly fancied sides to gain promotion as they seek to regain their former status at the higher levels.
Leighton had to make a defensive change when Peter Clifford failed to recover from a knee injury sustained in the midweek win over Stevenage and Sam Chapman and Liam Howley were paired together in central defence. Wes Lewis was included in midfield as partner to Enzo Silvestri.
Town started with the wind slightly in their favour and James Hatch had the first shot of the game but his effort flew wide of the post. A minute later the hosts were awarded a free kick just outside the box but Sam Chapman headed the ball away to clear the danger.
In the early stages both sides were struggling to find any tempo and the ball was being given away far too easily and the game had no real pattern.
In the 8th minute the hosts were awarded a corner which was delivered to the far post but fortunately for Town the ball was headed into the side netting. A few minutes later Steve Root in the Leighton goal had to be alert to punch the ball off the head of an attacker, as the hosts stepped up the pace.
Town countered and were awarded a free kick just outside the box but Scott Thomas drove his low kick straight into the defensive wall and the chance was lost. A few minutes later Silvestri ran through from midfield but was denied at the expense of a corner. Although Sam Chapman won the ball his header was easily caught by Acton in the home goal.
In the 22nd minute the Nuneaton left back made a good break down the flank but from a good position put his cross behind for a goal kick. Town had the next chance but Ben Gallant’s header was easy pickings for Acton.
Nuneaton took the lead in the 35th minute when Ramsay ran onto a hopeful forward ball and held off challenges from Chapman and Lasbrey to slot the ball past Root.
HT 1-0
Nuneaton created the first chance of the second half after winning two corners. Browns header from the second looked like finding the net but Town were able to kick the ball off the line to keep lead down to one goal.
In the 65th minute after foiling a Town attack Nuneaton broke quickly down their right and Ramsay shot just wide of the far post under pressure.
Town replaced Scott Thomas with Jamie O’Grady and within two minutes were level . James Hatch showed some neat footwork and fed a clever pass to O’Grady and his wonderful curling cross was met at the far post by Enzo Silvestri with a fabulous header which flew into the back of the net.
Town looked more confident after the equaliser but Nuneaton had a chance from a free kick just outside the area but their fierce effort flew just over the bar.
With just five minutes remaining and Town looking good for a point the referees assistant flagged for a highly debatable free kick as three Town players went to win the near the corner. After Town protests about the decision the free kick was swung in to the box and the unmarked Ramsay was left free to head his second and the winning goal.
Despite their best efforts Town never looked like scoring an equaliser and the hosts finished with all the points.
Town were disappointed not to have earned a least a point but Nuneaton had more possession and more territorial superiority although Steve Root had very little work to do apart from collecting a few crosses and through balls. Two defensive lapses cost Town dearly but they displayed their usual collective resilience and spirit to make it hard work for the hosts.
ATTENDANCE: 748
TEAM: Root, Lasbrey, Cashman, Chapman(Kench 88), Lewis, Howley, Thomas(O’Grady 65) Silvestri, Gallant, Hatch, Gordon.
Subs(Not used) McNulty, Bell, Copson.

Leighton Reserves drew 1-1 with Bedfont Green Reserves at Bell Close.

FIXTURES
BGB LEAGUE TUESDAY 19th AUGUST ko7:45 Leighton Town v Woodford United
BGB LEAGUE SATURDAY 23rd August 3pm LEIGHTON TOWN V BROMSGROVE ROVERS
BGB LEAGUE MONDAY 25th August 3pm MARLOW v LEIGHTON TOWN