North Leigh Bring Losing Streak to an End

Honours even at Eynsham Park

North Leigh 1 – 1 Slimbridge

Following the surprise recall of keeper Manny Agboola by Oxford United earlier in the week, the Millers turned to Jack Griffiths the regular keeper for North Leigh United, the Millers Hellenic side, as stand in. In addition Roger James who departed to Kidlington last September, returned to the club and in a frantic race to beat the deadline, was signed on the morning with minutes to spare. Indeed it was that man James who scored the Millers goal and, in a game of few chances, was the stand out player on the pitch.

A dull first half by two teams clearly lacking in confidence was lightened by one moment of real quality as on 20 minutes a deep looping cross from the left by Leigh’s Michael Hopkins was met by a stunning volley shot from Roger James who crashed the ball home from 15 yards past a helpless Slimbridge keeper Oliver Hall into the far corner. Apart from that both teams huffed and puffed without creating any chances of note with the home side having the majority of possession.

HT: North Leigh 1 – 0 Slimbridge

The second half started in similar vein with Leigh having the majority of possession. Half chances fell to Hopkins on 47 minutes, James on 60 minutes and shortly afterwards a header from George Seacole, but they couldn’t find the crucial second goal. Gradually the visitors sensed they had a chance and grabbed the initiative starting to put real pressure on the home defence. On 71 minutes a move down the centre carved open the Leigh defence with Joe Wilton scoring with a neat finish clipping a left foot shot past keeper Jack Griffiths from close range.

Leigh raised their game in the final few minutes but couldn’t find a way past a resolute defence.

FT: North Leigh 1 – 1 Slimbridge

North Leigh: Griffiths, Lymn, Hopkins, Marshall, Wellon, Paddock, R James, Sheehan, Seacole, McGlynn (Waldon 72), Grabe Subs not used: Keightley, Carroll, Mattock, D James

Attendance: 61

Referee: Mr Matthew Perry from Cheltenham