“I was so close to resting him, but I didn’t want to take him out,” said Richie Wellens, head coach of Leyton Orient, reflecting on the decision to start Dom Ballard in the recent match against Stevenage. Ballard rewarded his coach’s faith by scoring both goals in a 2-1 victory, bringing his total to 21 goals in League One this season.
Wellens has consistently praised Ballard’s potential, stating, “He has got so much improvement in him it is scary.” This sentiment reflects the high expectations surrounding the young player, who has already made a significant impact in his first season.
In January 2026, Ballard was named EFL League One Player of the Month after scoring five goals in six matches. His recent brace against Stevenage adds to his impressive tally, including a perfect hat-trick scored against his former club, Reading.
Wellens also expressed his hope for Ballard’s performance to set a standard for the remainder of the season, saying, “I hope this performance is the benchmark for the season now.” As Leyton Orient looks to maintain their position in the league, Ballard’s contributions will be vital.
Looking ahead, Leyton Orient will next face Peterborough at home, where fans will be eager to see if Ballard can continue his scoring streak. The team’s current form, bolstered by Ballard’s goals, provides a sense of optimism as they navigate the challenges of League One.