Leighton Town 0-0 Waltham Abbey: drab Southern League opener

In this drizzly contest at Bell Close, the best chances of the game admittedly fell to the home side. Goalkeeper Bradley Robinson provided a brilliant stop on 25’ to deny an Albie Hall header. In the second half, a combination of Robinson and defender Babadi Kamara kept it level – dramatically clearing off the line on 49’ from Louie Barrett’s cross.
Five minutes later, in this slow season opener – the next best (and last) effort fell to Luke Pyman. His volley however, whizzed just over. Waltham Abbey clasped a point. Leighton were perhaps left ruing missed chances, yet a draw was still a positive start to the new season – as boss Gary Flynn reflected:
“It was a tough game, certainly. We’re still finding out about new teams and what teams are like moving forwards. It was a good competitive game today. Opening games of the season can always be a bit like cup finals. We’ve got a few carrying knocks or unavailable.”
“I’m sure lots of teams have, but we haven’t got the biggest of squads. Hopefully though, if we look back in a few weeks and we keep building momentum, keep moving forward as a team – getting some results and winning some games we’ll be alright.”
LTFC: Comas; Joyce, Brennan, Farrell, Sage, Powell, Simpson, Pyman, Watkinson, Hall, Barrett.
Subs: Flanagan, Blackmore-Read, Hatton, Quigley, Daley.

Report by Max Bradfield