Stalybridge Celtic and Leek Town Share Points in 1-1 Friendly Draw

Stalybridge Celtic and local rivals Leek Town played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in their International Club Friendly on July 25, 2026. The match offered both sides a valuable workout in their preseason schedules.

Stalybridge Celtic struck first, taking the lead in the 35th minute through a well-worked team move that ended with a composed finish. The home side dominated large spells of the first half but could not extend their advantage. Leek Town regrouped at halftime and responded after the break, leveling the score with a powerful header from a corner kick in the 62nd minute.

Both teams pushed for a winner in the final half-hour, but strong goalkeeping and last-ditch defending ensured the scoreline remained 1-1. Stalybridge Celtic will be encouraged by their first-half performance, while Leek Town showed resilience to come from behind. The friendly provided important minutes for fringe players and gave managers a chance to experiment with formations.

With the season approaching, both clubs will take positives from a competitive run-out that kept the traveling fans engaged until the final whistle.