LEDBURY Colts secured a top-five finish in Herefordshire League Division Three after a 2-1 home win over Leominster Town Reserves.

Richard Thick’s young squad are still in line to challenge for the title after reclaiming second place with a hard-fought triumph over their mid-table visitors.

Colts returned to the New Street ground for the first time since the 12-0 thrashing of Malvern Vale on January 17 after permission was granted by landowners Property Solutions Ltd.

Leominster were out for revenge after a 7-3 by Colts in December during a volatile encounter.

Colts had more attempts on target in the first half-hour with captain Nick Bolton seeing an effort disallowed for offside.

Jamie Gladwin’s shot was stopped by keeper Nick King-Magee, who nearly fumbled the ball over the line.

Midfielder Roy Powell’s strike was pushed wide by King-Magee but he then struggled to hold an effort from veteran Mitch Preedy.

The busy keeper saved bravely at the feet of Gladwin and was helped by a defensive clearance to deny Ledbury’s Dan Powell.

But Leominster then enjoyed a bright spell with Dan Ramshaw-Evans having an effort disallowed for offside.

Kane Mckenzie and Tori Williams hit the bar before Tommy Murphy tapped home the opening goal past teenage keeper James Loader.

However, Thick’s men levelled just before half-time when a superb Tom Skittery shot bounced down from the bar and crossed the line.

In the second period, Ledbury keeper Loader palmed a free-kick wide and prevented a potential own goal from defender Pete Boyle.

But the hosts’ second-half persistence paid off as Gladwin fired in Bolton’s fine cross for the winner 10 minutes from time.

Thick said: “The display showed exactly how far we’ve developed as a team. It was physical and we did well considering Leominster had several first-team players in.

“We wasted several chances and went a goal behind but showed great character to pull one straight back and win.

“If you’d have told me we’d be going into the final two games with the title in our hands, I’d have snapped your hand off. Ultimately, however, I want the lads to enjoy their football, which they really are at the moment and their togetherness is unique.”

Meanwhile, the promotion-chasing reserves were held to an unexpected goalless draw at fourth-placed Holme Lacy in Division One.

They visit mid-table Wellington Colts tomorrow, while Ledbury Colts travel to title-rivals Tupsley (both 2.30pm).