Leighton Programme Interview

It has been a good week for The Gate. A comeback victory on Tuesday evening at East Thurrock United was followed by a comprehensive win against Salisbury FC in the Emirates FA Cup on Saturday.

One player who has enjoyed the past seven days is Margate centre-forward, Noel Leighton. On the scoresheet for both games, Leighton has begun to bag the goals displays have merited.

Speaking after Saturday’s 4-2 win in Wiltshire, Leighton expressed his delight to be a part of an outstanding team display.

“I’m really pleased with the win, the goals and to be through to the next round. I thought all the boys played superbly today. We really brought the game to Salisbury and in front of a decent crowd I felt we showed what quality we have in the squad.”

“I’m personally delighted to get the two goals, it is always good to score and be part of a win, you can’t ask for much more as a striker but there is always something a little bit special about the cup and all the boys are buzzing we have gotten through.”

Leighton added, “When the draw was made, we knew we were in for a tough game. It’s a long journey to make, the draw definitely could have been kinder, but we took that in our stride - and it is certainly going to be a good-journey back home!”

Goals breed confidence in any striker, and for Leighton, with a busy October coming up his focus is clear.

“I’ve had a good return this week and I want to score more and chalk some more goals up, any striker would but it’s an important few weeks for the club and as a team. We want to build up form, carry the momentum forward and climb up the table.” 

That starts with this evening’s game and the visit of Leatherhead FC to Hartsdown Park before a journey to Haringey Borough and upcoming scheduled games versus Merstham and Phoenix Sports.

“It’s a busy month which is part and parcel of the season. As a team you want to stay in as many competitions for as long as possible which means you inevitably have the fixture congestion, a lot of Saturday/Tuesday weeks. It’s a challenge but it is one we know we can deal with as we’ve shown this week.”

“Leatherhead will be another tough game – they all are at this level, but we are keen to make our home form a bit more concrete. We had a great day out on Saturday, we celebrated and deserved to but now focus is on getting three points and making sure the supporters go home happy like they did at the weekend.”

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