Leamington aiming to end season on a high at play-off chasing Buxton
Leamington wrap up their National League North campaign on Saturday when they travel to play-off hopefuls Buxton (ko 12.30pm).
The Brakes know they will finish bottom of the table, but their hosts have a lot to play for as they sit in the final play-off place.
Buxton are ahead of rivals Merthyr Town on goal difference and need a win to guarantee a play-off spot.
But they will host a Leamington side that has shown real fight and spirit in recent weeks, and those traits were in evidence again on Saturday as they were edged out 3-2 at home by third-placed Kidderminster Harriers.
The Brakes twice came from behind thanks to goals from Theo Streete and Max Brogan to tie the game at 2-2, before a stunning solo goal late on from Boston United loanee Kieren Donnelly secured the points for Harriers.
Brakes boss Scott Easterlow told LeamingtonFCTV: "I thought for large parts we were probably the better side, certainly in the first half when I would say we were the team that looked the most likely to win.
"It was great character shown by the lads to twice come from behind and equalise, but it is just frustration then that the winning goal comes after they have cleared the ball off their line, and then 10 seconds later the ball is in the back of our net.
"It's unfortunate, but Kiddy have got some really good players, and the finish from Donnelly is a great one, which is what good players can do.
"I feel for the lads, but it seems to be the same story for us where we are in games, but it is just moments that cost us but that is the level it is. Kiddy punished us and that is why they are competing for the play-offs."
The game was defender Streete's final home match for Leamington, after he announced he will be retiring after next Thursday's Birmingham Senior Cup Final against Tamworth at Walsall's Bescot Stadium.
Easterlow paid tribute to a player who joined the club from AFC Telford United in 2022, saying: "I didn't know Theo before I came to the club, but since I have been here you get to see what he is really like.
"That's not just out there on the pitch, it is in and around the changing room with the young lads, and he is one who is always giving advice to people. He is a top player and also a top person."