Leighton Town face Real Bedford at Bell Close, Leighton Buzzard on Saturday, Jan 2 at 4:00 PM in a basement battle that neither side can afford to lose. Both clubs are deep in the relegation picture in the Southern League Premier – Central, and defeat here could prove costly come the end of the season.

Leighton Town come into this fixture struggling badly (0W 4L in last 5). Real Bedford, meanwhile, arrive struggling badly (1W 3L in last 5) — actually the better-performing side in recent weeks. Leighton Town head into this on the back of a defeat, while Real Bedford arrive off a win — momentum clearly with the visitors.

In 2 previous meetings, Leighton Town lead 0–2 with 0 draws. Their last encounter ended in Leighton Town won 2–3. These two tend to produce goals — averaging 4.5 per game in recent meetings.

Verdict: This looks an evenly matched contest. Home advantage gives Leighton Town a slight edge, but Real Bedford are capable of causing problems. A draw would be a fair result.