Leek Sneak Into Next Round

Injury ravaged Leek Town clawed their way into the next round of the FA cup in a tense encounter at lower league Causeway United on Sunday.

Blues established a 3-0 lead and looked comfortable going in at the break but a superb second half fight-back almost cost Leek dear as the home side ran riot in the second half.

Causeway shocked Leek pulling a goal back just a minute into the second period and added a second on the hour. Matt Haddrell settled things down with his second of the game but Causeway struck again three minutes later leaving Blues with a 20-minute battle on their hands to achieve victory.

Leek are at home to East Midland side Tipton Town in the 1st qualifying round on Saturday 17 September when prize money of £3,000 will be on offer to the winners.

Three make full debuts
Leek Town Director of Football Neil Baker gave full debuts to three of his players in last week’s local derby at Kidsgrove.

Starting the game was midfielder Sean Turner and defenders Tim Sanders and Glyn Mellor who all gave a good account of themselves.

Sanders signed for Leek in July 2011 after spending three seasons at Kidsgrove Athletic where he made over 100 appearances. He began his career on the books at Port Vale before becoming part of the Blues, youth set up after which he moved on to Hednesford Town and Alsager Town.

Central defender Mellor impressed in pre-season training and signed in July 2011 from Staffordshire Senior League Champions Ball Haye Green.

Turner joined the club in July 2011 from North West Counties League ground sharers Leek CSOB. He was previously on the books at Hednesford Town and Kidsgrove Athletic.

Meanwhile, full back Ricky Bridge made his debut for the club when he came on as a half time substitute for Ben Nixon who was suffering from foot blisters.

Bridge joined the club in July 2011 after spending three seasons at Kidsgrove Athletic. He began his career at Manchester City and moved on to Port Vale before becoming part of Leek’s successful youth set-up. Bridge left Harrison Park to join Alsager Town before linking up with Kidsgrove.

Fixture change
Evo-Stik NPL officials have made a change to Leek Town's fixture list.

The home game against Ilkeston FC which was scheduled for Tuesday 25th October, has been brought forward to Saturday 8th October kick-off 3pm.

This is due both sides receiving a bye in the Preliminary Round of the FA Trophy which takes place that day.

The match is likely to attract one of Blues biggest crowds of the season with Ilkeston supporters travelling in good numbers this season and a Saturday date will ensure they bring a good following.

Leek will now be at home for three consecutive Saturday's in October with Brigg Town the visitors on Saturday 15th and a First Qualifying Round tie in the FA Trophy against Rainworth MW or Hucknall Town the week after.

Coming up
Leek Town fans are reminded that Blues are away at Brigg next Saturday and the coach will leave the ground at 10.30pm – for further information ring 01538 386356.