A secondary battery comprising an electrode assembly having a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate, and a separator between the positive and negative electrodes is provided. The secondary battery further comprises a case for containing the electrode assembly, and a cap assembly connected to the case. The cap assembly comprises positive and negative terminals electrically connected to the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate, respectively. Lead connectors are electrically connected to the positive and negative electrode plates and the positive and negative terminals. A support is connected to each end of the electrode assembly and surrounds the lead connectors. The supports are adapted to fit between the electrode assembly and the case.