Express & Star

Late Walsall brace is career highlight for Luke Leahy

Boyhood Coventry fan Luke Leahy admitted scoring two late goals to sink the Sky Blues and earn Walsall victory was the highlight of his career so far.

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The defender, who was released by his home-town club as a youngster, netted in the 91st and 94th minute to inspire the Saddlers to a 2-1 League One win on Saturday.

Leahy first scored when he nodded in after beating goalkeeper Lee Burge to a long ball forward from Liam Roberts.

He then showed bundles of character to convert a penalty with practically the last kick of the game after Nicky Devlin had been tumbled in the box.

“That feeling – it was just amazing,” the 26-year-old said. “It is definitely the best day of my career so far.

“Being a Coventry fan, beating them in the FA Cup was special and I didn’t score or get an assist that day.

“But Saturday meant everything to me, my wife and my family.

“One of my friends actually ran on to the pitch when I scored. I told them if I did score not to run on.

“But as soon as I saw him, I knew I had to run to him. It was a moment we’ll cherish for the rest of our lives.”

Leahy scored a penalty in a shoot-out against Coventry in the Checkatrade Trophy last season.

He then missed one against Macclesfield in the League Cup back in August.

But he was adamant he was taking the spot-kick on Saturday.

“It was last minute, against Coventry, I’d already scored and it was to win the game,” he continued.

“I didn’t care if anybody else wanted it, I was taking it.

“As soon as Nicky’s gone down I’ve ran. I think it was the quickest I have ever run – my GPS will probably show that.

“I ran quick to get that ball.

“A few lads came up to me, Morgs (Morgan Ferrier) came up, Zeli (Ismail) came up but no-one was taking that from me.

“I was confident I would score, that was the main thing. And I did.”