ROB Small believes Callum Leahy’s dismissal proved to be a blessing in disguise as Isthmian North leaders Bowers & Pitsea came from behind to seal a 2-1 win over Mildenhall Town.

Leahy’s red card came with Bowers already a goal behind thanks to Evans Kouassi’s first half opener.

But Jamie Dicks levelled matters before fellow substitute James Thomas headed home the winner with just two minutes remaining.

And Bowers boss Small was overjoyed with the impact the duo made after coming off the bench.

Small said: “I’m really happy for them, especially James after scoring the winner in those circumstances.

“They were unfortunate not to be in the team when our good run started and they don’t deserve to be out of the team, but it’s difficult to change the team when we’re winning.

“We played reasonably well and I think Callum’s sending off was a blessing in disguise because Mildenhall didn’t make their advantage count or work as hard.”

Kouassi converted Lee Watkins’ pull back to open the scoring on 27 minutes.

Matters appeared to get worse for Bowers as Leahy was given his marching orders after kicking out at Tommy Robinson, but Dicks found the equaliser 10 minutes later.

Kouassi missed a golden opportunity to restore Mildenhall's lead as he hit the post with a spot-kick.

The miss proved crucial as Thomas headed home Quentin Monville’s late cross.