Is it any coincidence the two games were played on 3G pitches? Maybe, maybe not. The club has stated its desire to put in a 3G pitch of their own spanning almost the length of Donkey’s Lane. Good to see the club also forward thinking with this proposal opting for an area closer to Donkey’s Lane than the clubhouse, that way, when Leiston reach the Football League, they won’t have to dig their pitch up! Result!

Having a 3G pitch will certainly improve things financially and beneficially for the club, as well as be a real asset for the community, and of course less weather disruptions. But does having a 3G surface improve results on the pitch?

BLUES v HORNCHURCH PREVIEW... All you need to know

I remember the good old days of the old-fashioned 'plastic' pitches at Luton, Oldham and QPR and hasn’t technology advanced so much that 3G/4G, these days you can hardly tell the difference between them and grass.

I’ve been busy this week having to use both my hands to count the sides in the Blues’ league with synthetic, 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G! artificial etc., pitches, and I managed six (I hope that is the correct number).

Now, a little glance at the current standings and half of those sides occupy the top 10. You would have thought that number would be greater wouldn't you? But then if you look at those clubs' home results, (haven’t I been busy folks), you still only get three sides in the top ten. Surprised or not?

BLUES SIGN STRIKER, HARLEY

Across the other three leagues at step 3 you will see Macclesfield and Merthyr top of their divisions and both have 3G surfaces. Of the four step 3 leagues nationally though, it’s a 50% split of 3G and natural grass.

Is there an advantage, results-wise then, to those with 3G pitches? Over to you!

Meanwhile, it's FA Cup weekend and I know I won't sleep... far too excited! Spotted on Hornchurch's socials they're bringing a coachload of fans t'boot! Fantastic, love a good atmosphere.

Now, need to get the vocal chords warmed up... Come on Leiston!