BLUES EASE TO WIN IN OPENING FRIENDLY

Blues pre-season campaign opened with a 3-1 victory over NWCFL side Abbey Hulton United at the Drayton Beaumont Stadium.

Town opened their campaign last season with a 9-0 victory on the same ground, but it was apparent early on their would be no repeat with Leek looking a little rusty.

With manager Neil Baker away in Russia, assistant Peter Ward took charge and his fairly familiar line-up did take the lead on 27 minutes when new-boy Tyler Blake slotted home.

The home side equalised on the stroke of half-time after Ben Chapman parried a good effort and the loose ball was tucked away.

Blues made a number of changes at half-time as they give their full squad a run-out with Dan Trickett-Smith and Danny Roberts (holidays) and Rob Stevenson (injury) the only absentees.

Five minutes into the second half Zeph Thomas (pictured) netted from close range after substitute Jordan Johnson hit the post and Thomas added his second and Blues third on 64 minutes to round off the scoring.

Team: Ben Chapman, Niall Green, Joe Kearns, Sam Hall, Scott Lycett, Mat Bailey, Naill Maguire, Marc Grocott, Zeph Thomas, Tyler Blake, Tim Grice Subs, all used: Lewis Short, Darren Chadwick, Charlie Walford, Jordan Johnson, Dominic Smith, Jessy Bavanganga, Owen Wyatt

Attendance: 93