Hubble’s double spells trouble for Worthing as Leiston move up to third

Leiston's Niko Muir-Merchant runs at the Worthing defence. All photos: PAUL VOLLER (Image: Archant)

Two goals from Conor Hubble secured the points and took Leiston up to third position in the Ryman Premier as they seek to secure an end of season play-off spot.

The former Colchester Academy youngster rejoined Glenn Driver’s side in January and this was his first time on the scoresheet since his return as Worthing continued their recent poor run.

It was the visitors who threatened first and Dan Summers’ snapshot was held by home keeper Ashlee Jones.

However, Leiston then went in front on 12 minutes when Hubble rose highest to head home a pin-point corner from Gareth Heath. The prolific Matt Blake could have extended the lead shortly afterwards but he screwed his effort wide after more good play from Hubble who was playing just behind the front two.

Conor Hubble fires his and Leiston's second goal home (Image: Archant)

Worthing were still well in the game at this point and Brannon O’Neill sent a 25-yard free kick narrowly wide. Blake was still proving dangerous and managed to get his next shot on target only for Kieron Thorpe to save with his legs.

The Sussex side continued to find Heath’s corners difficult to deal with and from one of them Tom Bullard headed home at the far post only for the goal to be chalked off presumably for pushing elsewhere in the box.

After the break Leiston began to get on top with midfielder Ade Cole particularly impressive as he drove the home side forward. Nico Muir nearly added another on the hour but his lob over the keeper also just cleared the bar.

The home side then grabbed their second with 20 minutes of normal time left when Muir charged down a clearance into the path of Hubble who wrong-footed a defender before calmly sliding the ball home. Leiston then pressed for another and Blake had two further chances but he blazed the first one wide before Thorp made a fine block from the second.

Leiston's Conor Hubble, right, celebrates with team-mates after putting his team ahead on Saturday (Image: Archant)

Right at the end Worthing had arguably their best chance of the game but substitute Ross Edwards could only slice the ball wide from a great position.

It was too little too late and Leiston gained a vital victory which leaves them level on points with Needham Market but with a far superior goal difference and games in hand as they travel to league leaders Bognor Regis on Tuesday night.