Town Exit Dudley Latham Cup

Leighton Town were knocked out of the Spartan Premier Division Cup yesterday after defeat at Ardley United. In a five-goal game not short of excitement, Town ended their time in the competition with eight men.
After quiet opening exchanges, the game seemed to kick into life on 24 minutes. A free kick for the visiting Town was cleared only as far as Tom Bryant, but his shot was well over.
It could’ve been considered a warning shot as Leighton grew in confidence. Their continued pressure would reap rewards just over ten minutes later as Brian Foulger broke the deadlock.
An excellent cross from Josh Hatton found Foulger on the penalty spot and his guided header beat the keeper, nestling in the back of the net.
Now in the ascendency, Bonham’s side were quick to add to their goal. Less than five minutes later, Campbells Ashton and Jervon were a handful for the home side. Firstly, the prior’s shot following a quick counter was saved one-on-one before Jervon could tap in following a defensive slip.
Although looking destined to go into the break two goals up, Leighton couldn’t rest easy. Ardley got one back on ’43 with a brilliant 35-yard effort from Liam Howard, before Jimmy Casbierd made it double delight in the space of two minutes.
The half time whistle signalled the end to a hectic final ten minutes of football and the second period opened with the same ferocity.
On 52 minutes, Leighton were screaming for a penalty. Ashton cut back skilfully but looked to be wiped out by the back tracking defender. The ref wasn’t convinced although the linesman looked to have given the foul.
More frustration would be administered on the travelling Reds by the referee as Ethan Flanagan would be dismissed on ’55.
Movement from the Leighton bench proved little influence as Ardley completed their turnaround in the 67th minute. Daryl Harris with a smart half volley from a ball on the left gave the hosts the lead.
Heads looked to have gone and in the 75th minute Town were reeling. With late challenges flying in, Joe Fitzgerald went into the book. Tom Bryant picked up a second yellow and became the second Leighton player to receive his marching orders.
Town were down to nine and it would soon be eight. Sonny Newbury-Barr was sent to the sin bin on ’86 and Ben Collins went into the book – capping a frustrating Tuesday evening.
Ardley progressed to the next round whereas Leighton will be left thinking what could’ve been at a ground where, for the second time, they’ve ended a game with eight players.
Max Bradfield