Coombes and Stidder at the double as Sports take points

Easington Sports' Craig Robinson gets in a shot as North Leigh United's Sean Hurcombe closes him down

Sports travel to Pewsey Vale for Saturday’s UHLSport Hellenic League return fixture looking to maintain their 100 per cent start.

The Division One West leaders beat Pewsey Vale in their season opener and picked up another three comfortable points in Saturday’s 4-1 victory over North Leigh United.

A brace apiece for Andrew Stidder and George Coombes secured all three points in a much-changed line-up from the previous weekend’s Emirates FA Cup tie.

Sports took the early lead when Coombes beat Gareth Walker at his near post and rifled the ball into the top corner of the net. Stidder doubled Sports’ advantage with an improvised finish, kneeing the bouncing ball over the onrushing Walker.

Sports were more direct in the first half but threatened the North Leigh goal with virtually every attack. Tom Smith and Craig Robinson controlled possession in midfield and the mobile front three were able to constantly turn the visitors’ defence.

Sports finished the half 3-0 up after Sam Grant raced down the flank, showed neat footwork to cut back inside and crossed low for Stidder to side-foot home without breaking stride.

If the game was not won by halftime, it certainly was over within a minute of the restart as Sports went 4-0 up virtually from the kick-off. Coombes again showed good composure in front of goal and was able to lift the ball over the visitors’ keeper.

Walker remained busy for the rest of the half and made further smart saves from Robinson and Stidder. Sports struggled to maintain the pace and intensity in their game and a defensive lapse allowed Sean Hurcombe to score a late consolation for the visitors.