A PAIR of early goals helped Leamington return to winning ways following a 2-1 victory against 10-man Darlington.
Both Henry Landers and Tim Berridge struck inside the first 12 minutes to put the home side in command at the Your Co-op Community Stadium.
The visitors reduced the deficit courtesy of Will Hatfield’s strike just before the break only for visiting defender Toby Lees to see red late on.
The result means Leamington sit 16th in the National League North table.
Prior to kick-off, Leamington chairman Jim Scott presented a special shirt to Jack Edwards after he became the club’s modern day record appearance holder in his side’s recent defeat against Chester.
And the Brakes made the perfect start as Landers planted a powerful header into the net after just seven minutes.
The home side doubled their lead four minutes later when Berridge poked home after Edwards helped on Rob Evans’ long throw.
However, Darlington halved the deficit one minute before the break when Hatfield’s deflected effort found the net.
At the interval, the club brought Cally Stewart onto the field as the striker showed his appreciation to the crowd after completing a move to League One side Shrewsbury Town.
Chances were at a premium after the break before Darlington defender Lees received a second yellow card two minutes from time.
Leamington are next in action against Redditch United in the Birmingham Senior Cup on Monday, January 20 with kick-off at 7.45pm at the Valley Stadium.
