LEAMINGTON Brakes will enter Christmas sitting at the top of the Southern League Premier Division table after securing a convincing 2-0 win against Kings Langley on Saturday afternoon.
Following a 0-0 draw against Frome Town last week, Brakes manager Paul Holleran was pleased to see his side back in the winning groove as Richard Gregory bagged two goals against the league strugglers.
After Saturday’s game, Brakes were seven points clear of nearest rivals Slough Town – with the chance to extend that lead on Tuesday (December 20) night with a home tie against Chesham United.
The home side may consider themselves to be a touch unfortunate though as Lewis Rodrigoe was sent off, meaning the hosts played much of the game with only ten-men.
Brakes needed no second invitation to take full advantage of the additional player as Gregory headed home a free kick from close range to put Leamington ahead after just ten minutes.
Nine minutes later Gregory added to his, and Leamington’s, tally when drilling a low drive past the home side’s keeper following a questionable free-kick call from the officials.
From there, Leamington controlled much of the game – though Kings Langley did try their chance as an offensive breakaway saw Jerry Amoo come close, putting his shot over the bar.
Reduced to ten-men, Leamington continued to press in search of a third – however they received no reward for their late endeavours as Brakes had to settle for the two early goals, which proved more than enough to secure the three points.
Prior to the full time whistle, Brakes man Callum Gittings was sent off following a near high kick incident which forced Kings Langley player Ollie Cox off the pitch.
Away from the action on the pitch, Brakes boss Paul Holleran held a raffle for injured Dunstable Town defender Sam Doolan – who was severely injured during Leamington’s Evostik Southern League Premier Division fixture against Chesham United at the Phillips 66 Community Stadium.
The young defender was taken to hospital after a clash of heads with Darren Pond, and scans later revealed he had suffered a fractured skull and eye socket.
Holleran said: “I spoke to Sam during the week and learnt the extent of his injuries.
“I thought it would be nice to raise a bit of money for him while he recovers.”
