Fledglings edge past local rivals Aylesbury

Leighton Buzzard Fledglings 4 - 2 Aylesbury 5s

The Fledglings had to battle to overcome local rivals Aylesbury, going behind twice but eventually sealing the win in the final ten minutes. Leighton started brightly but a misplaced pass let Aylesbury in; a deft finish saw the ball lifted over keeper David Fry and into the goal.

With half time approaching Leighton equalised, Alex White passed quickly to Peter Gale, who turned and crossed to the far post where Tom Billington helped the ball on to Tom Handley who calmly slotted the ball past Aylesbury's keeper.

Five minutes into the second half Aylesbury again took the lead. Indecision in the "D" allowed an Aylesbury forward in onto goal and able to clip the ball past Fry. However, it was to be Aylesbury's last success of game. As Aylesbury started to flag Leighton's player of the match, Joshua Farnfield became a constant attacking threat, showing great skill, particularly when picking one lofted pass and moving the ball on in one fluid movement.
And soon Leighton were on level terms: Matt Carter fired home the Fledglings' second equaliser following great work from White.

While Aylesbury continued to threaten, Fry’s saves kept the score even and Leighton gradually gained the upper hand. First Tony Farnfield's rising shot went close, the Aylesbury stopper making a good save with his pads. Then Leighton scored their best goal of the day. A fantastic passing move saw Leighton work the ball up the field and out to the right of the "D", to Joshua Farnfield. His pinpoint pass to Harry Walshe, enabled Walshe to pick his target, shoot and score.

Entering the last ten minutes it was vital that Leighton stayed concentrated and kept their energy high. Jordan Field excelled in this period, not only defending well but getting forward to give an extra man in attack. Following good work down the right Handley crossed for Gale to force home Leighton's fourth and final goal. With only five minutes to go Aylesbury couldn't recover and while the score line may have been hard on the visitors, Leighton deserved their win for their determined second half display.

Final score: 4 - 2 Leighton win, Aylesbury 5s lose
Player of the Match: Joshua Farnfield