Batchelor buoyed by winner

Leamington boss Paul Holleran is tipping Richard Batchelor to hit the goal trail after the midfielder’s dramatic injury-time winner against Stourbridge on Tuesday night.

Batchelor pounced in first minute of injury time to give Brakes a 2-1 win at Amblecote and set up an FA Cup second qualifying round clash at Corby.

And, after ending Leamington’s 28-year wait for a victory at their Black Country rivals, Holleran wsaid Batchelor should now have the confidence to add goals to his undoubted combative abilities.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“It was the perfect time to score and it was a great for our fans who have been travelling to Stourbridge for years without any joy,” said Holleran.

“The third-man run is something we do time and time again on the training pitch and I was delighted for Richard.

“He’s probably not quite 100 per cent after the foot injury but he thoroughly deserved it.

“He’s good at getting in behind the back four and I’ve always said he should score more goals. Hopefully, it will be the first of many.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The victory over Stourbridge extended Brakes’ unbeaten run to 20 matches, but it is sure to face a stern test tomorrow when Arlesey Town visit the New Windmill.

Zema Abbey’s’ side lie fourth after winning four of their last five league games and Holleran says the only surprise is that their promotion challenge has taken so long to materialise.

“Arlesey were one of the teams I fancied to do well last season,” he said.

“They’ve had a look at the league and spent their money wisely in the summer and made good additions.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“But we’re at home, on a good run and we’ve got experienced players at this level.

“Hopefully we should have enough to continue the run.”

Craig Owen will be missing tomorrow after suffering a hamstring injury in the first tie against Stourbridge, while Stephan Morley (hip flexor) is a doubt.

Related topics: