Leigh Genesis vs. FC United of Manchester preview

Leigh Genesis finally make their long-awaited debut at the Leigh Sports Village Stadium this evening when neighbours FC United of Manchester are the visitors for a 7:45pm kick off.

The first competitive meeting between the clubs will mark the inaugural fixture at the impressive new stadium, with Leigh's largest crowd of the season expected to gather in support of Lee Merricks and his young side.

Although, as mentioned, it is the first competitive game between the two clubs, they have twice met previously in pre-season friendly fixtures, the last seeing a 4-0 FC United victory in August 2006, although the most significant past encounter came on a blazing afternoon when over 2,500 spectators were at Hilton Park to see Leigh draw 0-0 with a United side that was playing their first ever fixture.

Both sides go in to the game on the back of disappointing results at the weekend, with an encouraging start to the game for Leigh Genesis at Matlock Town being completely wiped out in a 5-0 defeat, while FC United conceded a last-gasp goal in suffering a shock 2-1 defeat away to Witton Albion.

In accordance with Leigh Sports Village Stadium policy, there will be no cash turnstiles in operation at tonight's game, although tickets can be purchased up until kick-off from the Ticket Office (priced £8 for adults, £5 concessions and just £2 for under 18's), with supporters advised to arrive early to avoid queuing.

It's sure to be a special evening at the first ever football fixture to take place at the town's new stadium, so get down there early and soak up the atmosphere and make sure you don't miss a piece of history.