Stourbridge secured a narrow victory over Leighton in a closely contested match, thanks to two goals from Jai Verma. The game, played on October 10, 2026, saw Leighton, managed by the newly appointed duo Andy Leese and Tom Meakes, start strongly despite having only one previous win this season.
Leighton created early opportunities, with Charlie Pattison’s header striking the post in the 19th minute. Shortly afterward, Tyler Winters and Stefan Vukoje each had goals disallowed for offside. However, Stourbridge took the lead when Charlie Pavey’s low shot was saved by Leighton goalkeeper Josh Blunkell, only for Verma to capitalize on the rebound from the ground to score his first goal.
Just after halftime, Pavey had a chance to double the lead after a setup from Verma but missed the target. Verma himself also saw a curling effort drift wide before Leighton responded. At the other end, captain Kyal Williams delivered a cross that Winters headed in to level the score.
Despite Leighton’s efforts, Stourbridge maintained the momentum and pressure throughout the match. Verma’s second goal came in the 78th minute when he won the ball from Sydney Ibie, advanced toward the Leighton defense, and skillfully struck the ball with the outside of his foot to regain the lead for Stourbridge.
Leighton pushed for an equalizer late in the game, with substitute Jack Sayell coming close in injury time, his shot narrowly missing the target. The match ended with Stourbridge holding on to secure the win, marking an important result as both teams continue their campaigns.
