Leighton Shake Off Post Christmas Ring Dust to Come Out on Top

Leighton's first game back for this half of the season saw them entertain bottom of the League Oxford Hawkes. A bright start by Leighton was quickly snubbed out when the visitors found a free man in the D and were able to put themselves in front early in the game. After finding their composure, Leighton began to control the game more and a series of short corners tested the Hawkes defence, but were not close enough to close the score line gap. A quick interception by Mark Stephenson opened up Man of the Match Tommi Lakins to take on the Hawkes defence. From here was able to slip the ball to Josh Gale, returning after a long absence due to injury, to slide in and put the ball over line. With the game now level Leighton continued to have a number of chances but struggled to make them count. As the half came to a close a Lakins shot was returned to him by the keeper, which Lakins lobbed back over him and into the net to give Leighton the lead.
In the second half Leighton continued with their high pressure and Lakins was soon back on the score sheet. A well placed pass by Josh Farnfield found Lakins open and able to squeeze the ball past the keeper at his near post to make the score, three goals to one for the Buzzards. Some strong periods of possession helped to keep Leighton in control and create their next goal. A long pass from Lakins found Jack Gorton free at the top of the D and with a shot that will be in contention for goal of the season, he smashed the ball over the keeper's head, hitting the underside of the cross bar as it passed the line. Leighton's final goal fell to Lakins, capping off his hat-trick. A run across the pitch by left back, Dave Fry (also returning from injury), resulted in him playing the ball through to Lakins, and Lakins smashing the ball into the back board for the Buzzards fifth and final goal of the game.
Next week Leighton travel to league leaders Amersham and Chalfont and will look to right the wrongs of their previous encounter.