Blues Kick off campaign with a win

Wingate & Finchley 3-4 Leiston

Leiston opened their Ryman League campaign with a hard fought 4-3 win at Wingate & Finchley. On an immaculate playing surface the visitors had already gone close through Michael Brothers before Lacey headed the home side ahead with just 8 minutes on the clock. Leiston were back on level terms after 18 minutes when Akurang set up Gareth Heath who confidently volleyed home. Wingate regained the lead shortly after half time through Shulton, but credit Leiston who responded to falling behind & equalised and then went ahead in quick fire succession. First, some great build up play ended with Joe Francis finding the top corner to restore parity to the scoreline & then on 66 minutes Craig Parker lashed the ball into the net after the home keeper misjudged a cross, to edge the visitors in front. Leistons fourth goal came with 5 minutes remaining. Sub Tom Winter who made a positive impact after his introduction, got to the byeline & teed up Gareth Heath who dispatched the chance from 6 yards for his second goal of the game. There was still time for the hosts to have what appeared to be a legitimate penalty appeal turned down & then score again in the first of five minutes of time added on by referee Bushell, but Leiston held out for the remaining nervy moments & it was the Blues who returned to Suffolk with a welcome 3 points on the opening day. Next up for the Blues is a home fixture with Billericay Town Tuesday night, KO 7.45pm