MATCH REPORT

Milton Keynes Irish 0 – 0 Leighton Town

Paul Bonham’s Town played out a goalless draw in a game marred by controversy in the 80th minute that resulted in the home side’s goalkeeping coach being dismissed.
Leighton started well against their 12th place opposition but couldn’t make the most of a number of first half chances.
The visitors put the Manor Fields outfit under pressure from the beginning, enjoying a lot of possession before notable chances fell to Ethan Flanagan and Archie McClelland.
Flanagan’s volley from an excellent cross whizzed past the post on 18 minutes, whilst McClelland dragged a shot following a drive into the box tamely wide on 34’.
Before the first period had reached completion, Leighton would have another effort. This time it was Kieran Turner who couldn’t convert – despite receiving the ball well on the edge of the box and beating his man, yet again Leighton fell wide of the mark.
With the sides level at the break, Bonham looked to the bench for an influence in the second half. Changes came either side of MK’s first real effort of note. On 59 minutes, Luka Williams made way for Luke Pyman and on 70’ Ross Adams replaced Kieran Turner.
Following their earlier effort, MK pushed on again on the 71st minute. A close-range volley called goalkeeper Connor Coulston into action smartly to keep it scoreless.
Just two minutes later, Leighton were up the other end. However, Ashton Campbell’s inspiring wing play wasn’t matched by the scuffed effort that flew over from close range.
Now, on 80 minutes the game fell into obscurity. The last 10 minutes of the game were marked by an ugly scene as the goalkeeping coach of MK Irish marched over to the side of the pitch and struck a travelling Town fan for reasons that are yet to be fully understood.
The game ended honours even. Leighton sit 4th in the Spartan South Midlands Football League, while MK Irish remain 12th. Town’s next game is away at Baldock Town this Saturday. MK face a trip to Crawley Green next.

Max Bradfield