As we said in the “Know Your Enemy” report leading up to this game, it was entirely likely that Marginson would not field anything near a full strength squad for today’s 10th anniversary celebration match at Leek CSOB FC.



It turns out we were right, with none of the first team starting XI featuring in the game and, it seems Marginson himself wasn’t even in charge. That all makes perfect sense, though, with the fish we need to fry on the weekend to get started right in league play.

Of course, that also means that there’s really not too much to read into this. What you need to know? A team of reserve and youth players lost 5-2 to Leek CSOB which, ironically enough, turns around the 5-2 win our boys enjoyed here 10 years ago though there was certainly more on the line in that first matchup. Today, though, was all about the celebration and all about how far we have come as a club in those 10 years. Leek also had a special meaning attached to this game as it served as a fitting testimonial to long time player Mark Fox.

So, with all that aside, what happened today at Leek? The game started bright enough with both teams seeming to take some time to find their way into the game. We were scoreless at the 15 minute mark but that hardly foretold how the rest of the game would play out.

In front of a crowd of 312, Kei Wain opened the scoring for the Old Boys in the 20th minute. The 1-0 lead would last through half time, though FCUM had the better chances and possession at the end of the half and really seemed to come into their own.

The Rebels started off on the right foot in the second half with Connor Martin equalizing shortly after the game restarted. However, the lead was short lived as Zak Barker scored to restore the lead to Leek CSOB in the 60th minute.

Back and forth action continued, though, as the game really began to pick up. Dean Hope scored for FCUM to bring the game level once again, however, after the referee spotted a hold in the box, the man of honor Mark Fox converted the ensuing penalty kick to put Leek up 3-2. It was a lead they would hold and expand from.

As the Rebels fought to get back into the game, the defending became lax and Kei Wain and Zak Barker both doubled their total to leave us with the final of 5-2 to Leek CSOB. It was a deserved win.

However, as I said at the beginning, with this roster the game didn’t mean much on the field in terms of reading anything to the result. That’s why, you’ll notice, we also won’t be adding this game to our form list.

This game, though, was a celebration for both Leek CSOB and FCUM in different ways. In that respect, this game was certainly a roaring success.

So what’s up next? Our boys return to league play on Saturday at 3, when Tamworth come to Broadhurst. We’ll be looking for a good result and to get our league campaign righted. Be on the lookout for that “Know Your Enemy” report.

As always, thanks for reading!