Chairman hails emergency workers

The First Division South club's former number two, appointed last Thursday after Lee Casswell stood down after five years at the helm, would have missed out on a dream touchline debut on Saturday but for the hard work put in on a rain sodden Harrison Park and the sensible decision of match officials to allow the fixture to kick off an hour late.

Eeles said: “Events were farcical at times but I'd like to express thank everyone who was involved in getting the game on. I haven't got everyone's email address so please pass on my thanks to your teams. Once again thanks to everyone - you've been terrific today."

The Blues chairman has also hailed the success of two UEFA U17 Elite Championship international fixtures staged at Harrison Park as a huge success in raising the Staffordshire club's profile.

Ukraine and Finland met at the ground two days before England delighted a crowd of 2,727 on Saturday 26 March by beating Finland 1-0, the U17s stars later qualifying for May's finals in Azerbaijan after a 1-1 draw last week with Ukraine at Burton Albion's Pirelli Stadium.

Eeles said: "The club has received many compliments and accolades in terms of the facilities, pitch and professionalism of staff – which speaks volumes for the club and the progress made in recent seasons. The Board would like to thank all those involved over the two games for their time, patience and professionalism.

"There are too many people to thank individually but it would be remiss without giving special acknowledgement to Andy Wain and Andy Reeves, who have both worked diligently and tirelessly to deliver these fixtures successfully."

He added: "The UEFA games have raised the profile of the club and introduced some new football fans to Harrison Park, the Board hope some of these will fans will return to sample a Leek Town fixture in the future."

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