Guilsfield boss Leonard looks back on playing career

Leonard is the son of ex-Shrewsbury Town, Hereford United and Cardiff City star Carleton and enjoyed a fine career himself as part of the successful Guilsfield squad which became a force in the Huws Gray Alliance during a long association.

Leonard took over as manager before departing for a brief stint at the now defunct FC Oswestry in the North West Counties League.

However Leonard returned last summer and is now looking ahead to the future with his beloved Guils.

Leonard looks back at his career and shares some of his highlights.

Nathan Leonard (right) receiving an award on behalf of FC Oswestry Town last season. Picture by NWCFL website

Nathan Leonard (right)

What was the biggest achievement in your Welsh football playing career?

"Unfortunately we only won the Central Wales Cup once whilst I was playing so I would say our Welsh Cup runs were the highlight.

"The first of those was the best, beating Airbus, Connahs Quay and Caernarfon Town/ They great memories and brilliant to be a part of."

What was the biggest disappointment in your Welsh football playing career?

"Losing cup finals, unfortunately there's been a few.

"But the two that stick out were both against Caersws.

"One in the league cup final at Porthmadog, should have won that but going down to 10 men didn't help. Yeah, still hurts that one.

"Then in my first year as manager we lost to them in the Central Wales Cup at Llanidloes. We had a great season in the league but were poor on the day and deserved to lose.

"Also a couple of seasons ago we took Connahs Quay, the eventual winners I think, to extra time in the Welsh Cup.

"We were 2-0 up but unfortunately couldn't hold on and their class and fitness pulled them through in extra time. As a manager that would have been a huge achievement to beat them.

Biggest inspiration in your career?

"My Dad. Always wanted to impress him if he was watching, unfortunately never got to his level. He is still a big help to me now and someone I can always ask for advice.

Best ground you ever played at?

"Bescot Stadium in Walsall or the New Meadow Shrewsbury in England.

"In Wales I would have to say Porthmadog. Used to love playing there, great ground and people and we always seem to raise our game there. Good ground for us was Port."

Best team-mate?

"Tough one this could pick one of about 20. I've probably played with Andy Ford the most and cant rate him enough as player or teammate, top draw. But Danny Barton would have to be it.

"From my time at Ellesmere as a youngster he took me under his wing, picked me up all the time and always gave top advice.

"Then was a great teammate of mine at Guilsfield and then made me his assistant manager when he took charge as manager.

"He always made you play better, demanded standards of everyone and he wasn't shy to tell you if you weren't working hard or giving him quality balls to tap in."

Danny Barton of Guilsfield Reserves. Picture by Darren Hyland.

Danny Barton.

Most difficult opponent?

"Again I have a lot to choose from as I've had some good battles with plenty over the years and the odd argument.

"But in terms of talent I would say Darren Thomas at Caernarfon. He could make you look stupid at times and had a bit of everything, I could never get near him."

Darren Thomas has been in stunning form for Caernarfon Town of late.

Darren Thomas.

Most memorable match?

"First year as manager we played Holywell in the Welsh Cup and beat them 3-2 with one of the last kicks of the game.

"I still remember the celebrations in the corner everyone in the dugout running out going mad, that's what footballs all about.

" It was a proper cup tie, tackles flying in, both teams doing everything they could to win.

"Asa Hamilton and Gaz Sudlow were having a ding dong battle all game and thankfully Asa did the business and won us the game, oh and then got sent off. Literally had everything that game."

Leo Riley with Asa Hamilton

Asa Hamilton (right).

Advice to a young player?

"Work hard. The harder you work, the more you get out of football. Look after your body and listen to your experienced team mates, coaches and manager.

"Try and soak it all in and never waste a session or game. You never know when it will be your last game."