Leighton Town through to last 16 of FA Vase

Leighton Town have reached the last 16 of the Buildbase FA Vase, earning a trip to Cobham, Surrey on Saturday.

Town’s 2-1 victory over Walton & Hersham at Bell Close at the weekend was live-streamed for fans to watch.

They will have enjoyed returning favourite Danny Webb’s penalty, awarded after Archie McClelland was scythed down, ensuring a 1-0 half time lead.

The visitors – who finished the game with nine men after two second-half red cards – levelled after sustained pressure, an awkward high bounce eluding keeper Brad Kirkwood.

But Ross Adams restored Town’s lead, curling the winner into the top corner direct from a corner in the 65th minute, giving supporters at home plenty to celebrate.

Although Leighton were forced to defend in numbers and soak up the pressure, they kept their Wembley hopes very much alive.

“It was a very competitive game,” said relieved manager Joe Sweeney.

“They were a very good footballing side, with very good players and it could have been tricky. It’s great we’ve got the chance to be in the last eight for the second time in a row. It would be a brilliant achievement.”

Last year Leighton reached the last eight with a fantastic victory at Bradford Town in Wiltshire but just missed out to Corinthian in their quarter-final.

“Because of the situation this year any team that’s in it could win it. We are all going into the games cold and no one can go and scout,” he added.

“It makes it different, but exciting in a way. We’ll have a hard training night on Tuesday and then prepare for the game in the session on Thursday.”

Sweeney said the streaming of the match to supporters proved very successful, with excellent picture quality and local commentary.

Saturday’s fifth round tie will again be played without spectators due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Combined Counties League Premier Division side Cobham were awarded their fourth round victory when Stowmarket Town withdrew from the competition.