Leighton Town 2-1 Rugby Town

FA Trophy 1st Qualifying Round

Saturday, 15th October 2005

Attendance | 134

Photo Gallery | Rory Squire looks on as Delroy Gordon is tracked 

Rugby 's recent poor record in major cup competitions continued on Saturday, when Leighton brought about an early halt to their FA Trophy campaign.

They made a slow start on an uneven playing surface, falling two goals behind to their Southern League Eastern opponents, and despite a second half rally were unable to turn their supremacy in terms of possession into goals.

Leighton opened the scoring on just 10 minutes, when Rugby keeper Karl Lewis fumbled a long range effort from Jason Haggerwood, the ball dropping at the feet of Luke Melisi, who made no mistake from close range.

The lead was extended on 32 minutes when Enzo Silvestri nipped in behind the Rugby defence to head home Mark Burfoot's ball into the box past a stranded Lewis.

Far too much of the first period was played with the ball in the air, which suited the style of the uncompromising Leighton side.   Rugby rarely threatened Lee Clark in the home net, though a string of corners midway through the half did provide some goalmouth action and hope for the travelling Valley faithful.

Rugby started the second half with more determination and control, and just after the restart Delroy Gordon’s near post flick from a long throw was touched round the post by Clark .

Shortly after Scott Goodwin curled a free kick into the box from a wide right position, and Rory Squire claimed the slightest of touches before the ball sneaked into the net to give Rugby a lifeline.

Striker Kevin Slinn then had two golden opportunities to bring the game level.  First he lifted the ball both over the oncoming keeper and the crossbar, after he had been released by a long kick from Lewis.  Minutes later he headed over from close range after the ever-dangerous David Stone had found him with a pinpoint cross from the left.

Despite numerous set pieces which often panicked the Leighton defence, Rugby were unable to grab a second, and late on were grateful to Lewis for his fine low save from substitute Michael Chennells, as they pushed forward in search of an elusive equaliser.

Team : Lewis, Tullin, Hannigan, Herbert, Farmer, Squire (Wells 78), Gordon, Goodwin (Byrne 85), Slinn, Stone, Williams (Wesley 68).  Sub not used : Peaks