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A Call To Arms   Our club is at a crossroads, a point in time where we can go a number of ways. With our Chairman Ian Moorcroft stepping down at the end of the season the club needs new leadership, whether that be in the form of new business minded people joining the existing board or a group forming a new board and taking the club forward.   Over the past three years the club has taken a number of positive steps including the establishment of our Woman’s side alongside our Girls Under 18s, Boys Under 18s and Boys Under 16s teams. The club has strengthened its ties with Twyford Spartans and this continues to bare fruit, agreed in principle a new 30 year lease of the ground,  held it’s position in the Southern League Premier Division (albeit it’s tight at the moment), formation of the Club Committee and a number of other notable achievements, yet we know there is so much more to do to create a sustainable, community based club.   The 3G Pitch Project continues to move forward in the background and an update will be available soon. Other projects such as the LED Floodlights have been delayed by the lease signing but with that now upon us we will be able to progress.   There is so much potential here at Tiverton Town, a rich heritage and history that can’t be created or manufactured. We have something special, but we need to progress and to do that we need people at the helm of the club who can lead us into the future.   If you are interested in talking about the future of the club please in the first instance contact Club Secretary Viv Curtis via email – secretary@tivertontownfc.co.uk

Match Report by Darren Holmes Saturday January 10th At Alwyns Lane Chertsey Town 4 McCoy 6 Lee 20 Abisogun 23 Berry 83 Tiverton Town 3 Jagger Cane 1 Koita 18 Swann pen 71 Att: 507 Tiverton Town playing away to Chertsey Town Following the thrills and spills of Two Derby wins over the Christmas period, Tiverton travelled to Chertsey whose ground is in the shadow of Thorpe Park. The Yellows’ came up short once again in another goal-fest, Rollercoaster of a game, but came agonisingly close to extending their unbeaten run to Three matches. Taking the positives we are finding the net with encouraging regularity at the moment, although the heavy amount of goal’s conceded still remains worrying and will eventually consign us to the drop. The Curfews’ are play off hopeful’s and the midweek signing of prolific forward Nathan Minhas from Chesham, will have enhanced their chances of achieving that come the end of the season. For this encounter Asa Hall and his coaching staff named an unchanged line up. Hall once again taking up a deep lying midfield role and Harry Hutchinson partnering captain Toby Down in the heart of the Yellows’ defence. A dramatic start to the game, meant that with barely a minute played Tiverton took the lead. A searching ball into the box found Louis Jagger Cane aerially and he nodded home. Chertsey’s response was almost immediate though and the Yellows’ required fast reaction’s and good hand’s from Matt Wonnacott, as he palmed over to foil Olly McCoy. A second save from Tivvys’ number one followed minute’s later, to keep us ahead. Our host’s then put together a quality move, with plenty of incisive passing and good movement. Levelling thing’s up when Wayne Ridgely found McCoy who finished emphatically, to highlight the Curfews’ play off claim’s. However Tiverton’s spirit has always been evident in spite of potentially demoralising result's and match position’s. Our lead was restored in the 18th minute, when Toby Down’s accurate, lengthy pass was collected by Dan Koita in the channel. Cutting into the box, he fired across the keeper and into the far corner. 2-1 to the Yellows’ and the build up play from both side’s was impressive and entertaining for a crowd of just over 500, who were there to witness a hugely watchable spectacle. The openness of the game suggesting that there were destined to be further addition’s to the scoreline. Unfortunately though for Tiverton the next Two goals were both for the home side and the conceding of goals in quick succession issue, once again reared it’s head. Parity was achieved through Conor Lee who scored after sustained possession in our final third. Then the powerful, fleet footed Gary Abisogun with 23 minutes on the clock stepped into the area from out wide and Chertsey were infront for the first time. His shot flew past Wonnacott and made the Yellows’ task that much harder. There was an end-to-end feel to the game and there was a rousing reaction from Asa Hall’s men as they went about trying to level. A couple of minutes later Tor Swann who was finding more and more joy down our host’s left, pretended to cross on a few occasions before delivering invitingly into the box, but the ball was headed away from the lingering Koita. Then it was the Curfews’ turn as the pendulum swung back and forth. Their slick attacking play matching Tivvy’s and requiring some good defensive work to nullify their threat. The Tiverton bench then protested about an unpunished tackle of questionable legality on Wellington, right in front of them, after 35 minutes had gone. Half time was fast approaching and the Yellows’ determination to not go in behind was apparent. Corey Koerner’s clearance fell kindly to Jacob Wellington who broke Chertsey’s defensive line initially, before his shot was blocked. The ball rebounded back to Gabe Billington whose driven effort wasn’t far away, but went wide. Asa Hall then jumped highest in the Curfews’ area in the 43rd minute, but his goalbound header was deflected behind for a corner. The player- manager then sent a scorching attempt from range, on the verge of half time to the corner of Luke Wynne Robert’s goal. The Chertsey Gloveman pulling off an excellent fingertip save to deny him. Not long after Hall went close the player’s disappeared into the dressing rooms for some refreshments, as the half ended. A change was made at the interval, tactical or otherwise. Ryan Keates replacing Corey Koerner, as the Yellows’ looked to get back on even terms. Messrs Hall, Steve Orchard and David Steele will I’m sure have given words of wisdom to the away dressing room, before they returned. The game got back underway with Tivvy on the front foot, although we were indebted to Matt Wonnacott, as he came out on top of a one-on-one duel, shortly after the restart. He was both alert and showed superb reflexes. Happening Three minutes into the half, this was a vital intervention from the Torquay loanee and avoided what would have looked like a daunting two goal deficit. Without seriously threatening it was the Yellows’ who had the better of a Ten minute spell with little in the way of notable action. The match sprang back into life after Minhas was sent through, as the Tiverton backline was prized open. The away side had the frontman to be thankful to though as he took a heavy touch and the opportunity passed him by, with an hour played. A few minutes later Billington cleverly made space for himself to shoot on the edge of the Curfews’ area, however his shot climbed over the bar. Then a neat piece of interplay between Jagger Cane, who adeptly flicked on to Swann who put a good cross in, narrowly went beyond the lurking Koita. Down the other end, Minhas who carved out an opportunity of his own making, couldn’t keep his shot down. However, it was Tivvy who looked more dangerous in the final third at that point and were playing attractively through the team. That attacking intent was rewarded when Koita played in his strike partner Jagger Cane and he was sent tumbling before he could pull the trigger. The Referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot in the 71st minute. Birthday boy Tor Swann celebrated his 22nd with a confident penalty that sent Wynne Jones the wrong way and equalised for his team. This was a third goal in as many games for him and Tiverton’s improved cutting edge has also coincided with Jagger Cane’s return from injury. A rejuvenated Koita who is in fine form at the moment, made way for Aiden Horne after 80 minutes, but unlike the previous Saturday against Taunton, the side were unable to see the game out. Chertsey who had made a flurry of substitutions, saw one of them Dan Berry make the defining impact on the match. Hall had done well in stretching to get ahead of onrushing Curfews’ and headed back to clear. His clearance though fell to Berry who calmly caressed the ball home in the 83rd minute. The Yellows’ tried in vain to conjure up a Fourth goal, but it didn’t materialise and the home side maintained their lead until the final whistle. A frustrating loss and the team will be the first to accept that they could well have taken a point or even more away from this encounter. Though as the dust settles on this game, it’s also good to remember that we are producing much more convincing performances at this present time and are playing our best football of the campaign. Bovey Tracey are next on Tuesday night in an absorbing tie in the St Lukes Devon Bowl, at the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium , which reunites Asa Hall with Ben Gerring who will be in the away dugout. The biggest game of next week though is also at home, when fellow strugglers Hanwell are the visitors at The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium. Tiverton: Wonnacott, Wilkins, Down(c), Hutchinson, Koerner(45), Hall, Billington, Wellington, Swann, Jagger Cane, Koita(77) Subs: Ross(GK), Wood, Keates(45), Horne(77)

Match Preview  Chertsey Town v Tiverton Town  Saturday January 10 th   3pm Kick Off  At Alwyns Lane  Alwyns Lane, home of Chertsey Town FC   Uplifting results over Christmas mean that the Yellows’ will travel to Chertsey on Saturday hoping to continue finding thrills despite the theme park season being closed. It has reignited a campaign that looked insurmountable before the stirring victories against Plymouth Parkway and Taunton.    A word of caution though, we are still deep in the woods and still have plenty of ground to make up on the team's above us. If we are to add to our point's tally, we will have to rise to the challenge of facing top half Chertsey who are fresh from a 1-0 win away at Uxbridge.    Formation changes worked over the course of our first back-to- back win’s of the season and it will be fascinating to see how we line up and how we fare tactically against the Seventh placed Curfews’. Asa Hall and his coaching staff will know that they will have to execute their game plan well against significantly higher opposition.    A feel-good factor is perhaps evident for the first time this term. The reliving of Koita’s sublime overhead kick has I’m certain entered many fan’s heads and the players’ have given themselves an outside chance of beating the drop. Maintaining the standard’s set though is imperative.    Louis Jagger Cane has been carefully managed since his return and played a telling part in both successes.    Toby Little is the man in the hotseat at Chertsey, having been a top performer as a player at this level for a long time previously. The technical, left sided Little is 36 years old and registered to play. Much in demand in his playing career, he had sustained spells with Chesham, Hayes & Yeading and Beaconsfield, before joining the Curfew’s as a player.    Despite losing the undoubted striking talent’s of Jack Mazzone to fellow Southern League Premier South team Bracknell during this campaign, our host’s sit just outside of the play offs. They were our opponent’s at the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium on the opening day of the season and triumphed 2-0.   The departure of Mazzone has left a void to fill. However, forward’s/ Widemen  Olly McCoy who was professionally contracted to Birmingham City earlier in his Senior career and Bradley Wilson, a mid season capture from Basingstoke have both been amongst the goal’s.    McCoy arrived at Alwyns Lane in the 2023/24 season and the cultured player is much travelled. Yeovil, Wealdstone and Bath City have all been destination’s for the former Beaconsfield favourite. He has Six goals so far.    Wilson a goalscoring winger/forward, is in a rich vein of scoring form this term. Finding the net 10 times from 20 games in this division for both Stoke and the Curfews. A gifted performer, his overall record in Southern League Premier South is; played 79, scored 34.    Powerful and athletic forward Gary Abisogun is a major focal point and has prior to this worn the colour’s of  Slough and Chesham in the higher climb’s of National South. The Pacy and quick footed attacker is formerly of Bracknell.    A vastly experienced side includes Ashley Lodge, once with Bracknell, who was a standout performer in their FA Cup run a few campaign’s back and starred in the televised game versus Ipswich. The 36 year old has played for a host of top non league club’s and heavily featured in the league above for Chesham, last term.     Look out also for emerging talent, 22 year old Daniel Berry who was previously at Chipstead. Berry is a mainstay in this term’s line up, having made 20 appearance’s so far.    Popular midfielder Wayne Ridgely has rejoined the Curfews’ Following a spell away with Walton & Hersham and is a very talented option for manager Little. Ex Met Police schemer Luke Robinson who began the season at Hampton & Richmond is an excellent acquisition. With plenty of knowhow and creativity, he was a Curfews’ player in the last campaign and Farnborough are another club on his CV.    Little’s defensive armoury also has seasoned player’s at this level and higher. Central Defender Darryl Harrison was a mainstay at Bracknell in the last couple of season’s and has established himself as a regular in the Surrey side’s backline. Solidly built, he is a talented and dependable defensive presence.    Alex Fisher has a sizeable amount of experience to call on and the left back was part of the formidable and miserly Met Police defence for Four campaign’s in this division. He joined Chertsey in the 2023/24 season and has become a lynchpin for the Curfews and is very comfortable in possession.    Conor Lee is another ex Met Police defender, playing for them before they voluntarily dropped down a division. He has been at Alwyns Lane for the past Three campaigns, including the season they were promoted to this level. Ex Hanwell and Bracknell player Isaac Olorunfemi has been with the Curfews’ after beginning last season at Bracknell and is very capable in this standard of football.    In possession of the number one shirt is Luke Roberts. A product of Dorking Wanderers’ academy, Robert’s was at Redhill last term and had a phenomenal 22 clean sheet’s there.    Can we continue putting result’s together? A positive one here  could transform belief in the dressing room. Talk of survival has been fairly muted to this point, but backing up our impressive form over Christmas could yet prove season changing.  The imposing frame of Hyperia, the UK's tallest and fastest rollercoaster towers above the sky line at Alwyns Lane

Match Report  Saturday January 3 rd   At The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium    Tiverton Town 2   Wellington 41 Koita 82  Taunton Town 1   Sanogo 78  Att 1173  Tiverton Town's line up (left to right) Asa Hall, Tor Swann, Louis Jagger Cane, Jacob Wellington, Dan Koita, Brooklyn Wilkins, Corey Koerner, Toby Down (c), Gabe Billington, Matt Wonnacott, Harry Hutchinson   An enthralling and encapsulating afternoon ended with a stirring win over our local rivals for the first time since 2020. For a good few months now the Yellows’ have been treading water result's wise. so to back up victory against our Devon Rival's Plymouth Parkway in a stunning way, versus Taunton is a measure of how well Asa Hall's men have performed over the Festive period.    The Management team of Hall, Steve Orchard and David Steele  were able to call on the same player’s that achieved success at Bolitho Park, with the exception of the unavailable Jack Kennell. Midfielder Jacob Wellington coming into the starting Eleven and Aiden Horne amongst the substitutes.    Asa Hall deploying himself as a holding midfielder, with Harry Hutchinson partnering Toby Down in Central Defence and Brooklyn Wilkins the right sided full back and Corey Koerner on the left. Tor Swann, Gabe Billington and Wellington across our midfield, with Louis Jagger Cane and Dan Koita, up top.    The Taunton line up was littered with former Tiverton players. Jamie Richards, Niall Thompson, Jack Rice, Alfie Moulden and Tom Purrington were all starters for the Peacock’s. Our captain Toby Down of course, has a playing association with the Somerset side.    It was a pretty non-descript opening to this eagerly anticipated meeting, on a difficult playing surface. However, it was the Yellows’ who without seriously threatening who were more cohesive and enjoying the better of possession.    Swann giving notice in the early exchanges of the problems he would cause throughout, down Taunton’s left, Jagger Cane’s intelligent use of the ball and both his and Koita's movement to the fore. Billington and Wellington both busy and bright behind them.    In the Eighth minute Wilkins determination saw him win the ball and then launch an attack that saw Jagger Cane receive possession. He in turn fed Wellington who was impeded by the bobbly nature of the pitch and denied him a good crossing opportunity in a dangerous position.    A few minutes further into the game, Hutchinson’s forceful challenge set the wheels in motion for another Yellows’ attack. He found Swann with his pass out of defence and the skilful Winger twisted and turned his way along the touchline, delivering into the box an inviting cross, that sparked half-hearted appeals for handball.    A 16 th minute header from Scott Robinson that went high and wide of Matt Wonnacott’s goal was the response from our visitor’s, as Tivvy presented a much more secure looking backline than they have done for the majority of this campaign.     Moment’s later Swann found himself in on goal, but dragged his shot wide and out for a Peacock goal kick. A crunching Down tackle then put an end to a promising move from the away side. Koerner was then deliberately tripped, but the resulting free kick went astray.    In the 24 th minute Tiverton were again first to the ball, as Wilkin’s stepped in and played the ball onto Jagger Cane who with his back to goal, swivelled and his effort warmed Frankie Phillip’s gloves, low down but fairly central.    Swann continued to be a pest out wide and a quick shift away from his marker appeared to see his beaten defender handle on the ground, but the Referee waved play on. A bloodied Wilkins then left the field. He wasn’t replaced but his shirt was.    Then the talented Jack Rice who often cast’s himself as the pantomime  villain, as Tivvy fan’s know, entered the Referee’s book. Rice who has a black belt in the dark arts testing the Match official’s patience with a combination of theatric’s and verbal’s.    Rice’s next meaningful involvement though saw him neatly combine with another ex Yellow Alfie Moulden, in the 33 rd minute. Though the opportunity carved out by the former Tiverton Player of the year was flashed wide.    The industrious Gabe Billington  then drew a tactical foul, which went unpunished as he was breaking into the Peacock’s half. Billington’s committed display, also seeing him manipulate play impressively when in control of the ball.     The Yellow’s were uninhibited in the final third. The classy Jagger Cane often finding little pocket’s in which to play in and stretch Taunton’s backline. Koita was really imposing himself on the game and the gifted frontman was a constant threat.    Tiverton always looked the more likely in the first half and the incisiveness of their play paid dividends when the alert Wellington nicked the ball past his defender and supplied a mature, accomplished finish in side-footing into the net and beating Phillips.    A buoyant Yellows’ and Wellington almost added to their lead on the verge of half time. A last ditch challenge around the six yard box arriving, just as he was about to pull the trigger. A set-piece then saw a thumping header from Hutchinson, produce a fantastic fingertip save from Taunton’s Exeter loanee.    A 1-0 lead at the break and deservedly so. Infact if Tivvy had added to that scoreline, few could have argued. Nothing was being taken for granted though, knowing how many times good position’s have been squandered this term.  Tiverton Town celebrate Jacob Wellington's 41 minute opener   The team took their momentum from the first 45 minutes, into the closing half. The home side were quickly on the front foot and Wellington was once again the perpetrator. Buying himself a bit of room with quick feet and firing a powerful shot at Phiĺlip’s, who strongly saved.     More teasing and tormenting from Swann then saw him drive Asa Hall’s men forward and the ball just evaded the accelerating Koerner. In the 57 th minute Jagger Cane’s astute piece of footwork, opened the door for himself. Phillips’s excellent reaction save once again preventing his strong connection on the ball.     The high pressing Koita then turned over possession and carried on to the edge of the box, but he wasn’t able to get a clean shot away and the keeper’s save was a comfortable one. That happened in the 65 th minute and Four minutes later his strike partner Louis Jagger Cane was replaced by  Aiden Horne in a like-for- like substitution.    Taunton had been quite subdued up until this point, however their best spell in the game followed. Asa Hall had acted as a good defensive shield on a few occasions and his well timed sliding tackle on Rice was very necessary. The ball then fell kindly to Ben Seymour who lifted over.    Captain Toby Down then bravely headed away with Peacock predator’s circling in the home box, this was folowed by a vital block from Dorchester loanee Harry Hutchinson. In the 74 th minute Hall was quick to anticipate a threatening Niall Thompson surge. His tackle going out for a throw in.    There was brief respite for the Yellows’ when Swann broke away and Taunton conceded a corner, but the away side’s equaliser wasn’t totally unexpected. Substitute Seidou Sanogo scrambling home after good work from fellow sub Owen Brain, on 78 minutes.    Anyone whose read the usual script will probably have guessed a different outcome. In the 80 th minute Koita didn’t quite get enough on his attempt to trouble Phillips’, however it wasn’t long before he found a somewhat better connection.    An imperious break from Swann in the 82 nd minute exposed Taunton’s defensive unit and keeper Phillip’s raced out of his goal to the wing, in looking to dispossess him. Swann though went past him, leaving him in no man’s land.     On reaching the by-line he pulled his cross back into the area and the onrushing Koita then produced an audacious overhead kick. As sublime a finish as you could wish to see from 12 yard’s out, with his marker helpless to react.    Technically I haven’t seen a goal any better than this since watching Tiverton from their final season in the league below. A superb bit of skill and athleticism from Dan Koita, the local boy. This sent the crowd delirious and was more than worth the entrance fee.  Taunton Town's Josh Owers watches on as Dan Koita wheels away in celebration of his spectacular winner   And once again like at Parkway, Tiverton saw the game out professionally. Vital intervention’s from Down, Hall and Hutchinson keeping their local rival’s at bay and Swann was thwarted when breaking into the Taunton area. Five minutes added time did little for the nerves, but the Yellows’ held on to a victory that was deserving.    A fantastic all round display for the fan’s to savour, hopefully for the side to build on and a Wonder goal. Tiverton will head to Chertsey this weekend with a bit of belief and momentum. The team are still quite a way adrift and it would be foolish to expect miracles, but what a six point’s over the Festive period. We should be immensely proud of the lads.    Tiverton: Wonnacott, Wilkins, Down(c), Hutchinson, Koerner, Hall, Billington, Wellington, Swann, Jagger Kane(69), Koita  Subs: Ross(GK), Wood, Keates, Horne(69),

Ian Moorcroft announced his intention to stand down as Chairman of Tiverton Town FC at the end of the current season.   Ian rejoined the board in November 2023 after a short period of time away from the club following a previous 20 plus year relationship with the club. Whilst there have been many changes to the structure of this board Ian has been the one constant. Ian has supported Tiverton Town FC both financially and with his time, knowledge and business expertise. Through his significant financial input the club has continued to play in the Southern League Premier Division and has enabled the first team management to field a team that is extremely competitive at this level. After gifting his business R&M Wholesale to his employees, he now feels the time is right to take a step back from his day to day business activities and wishes to enjoy his retirement with his wonderful wife Barbara. While no words can truly show how much we appreciate what Ian has done for the club we wish to put on record our sincere thanks for a commitment rarely seen in football. Both Ian and Barbara will always be warmly welcomed at the club and Ian will be supporting any incumbent with his expertise. This announcement does mean that the structure of the club will need to be considered and are inviting expressions of interest from parties who may wish to either join the existing board either as a Committee Member or Chairman or form a new board for the 2025/26 season. Any expressions of interest should be addressed to Club Secretary Viv Curtis via email contact@tivertontownfc.co.uk . All enquiries will be treated with the utmost confidence.

Plymouth Parkway 1 Hall 65 Tiverton Town 2 Swann 83 (pen) 90+3 Saturday 27th December Bolitho Park Attendance: 806. With confidence not exactly riding high amongst the Yellows faithful and the witnessing of many a disappointing result and some discouraging performances, the expectation of a derby win, would I guess have been relatively low. The reality though for the Yellows was full of festive cheer, as our long-suffering fans were treated to a win, a little over two months after their last one. Confounding the weight of recent history and condemning their Devon rivals to a first defeat since the two sides became opponents in this division and levelling up the victory count.    The matchday eleven, saw player-manager Asa Hall in a role he fulfilled on a number of occasions last term, moving back into Tiverton’s backline. Gabe Billington and Jack Kennell were in the middle of the park and Louis Jagger Cane returned to partner Dan Koita upfront from the outset.    In the spirit of a derby game, there was a lot of pride at stake.  The initial play took part in the Yellows half, as both teams sized each other up. The ball eluding the stretching Jenson Ireland as it was driven across the face of goal in the opening minutes and then in the 6 th minute, ex Yellow Carlo Garside’s dangerous cross was headed over by Will Sullivan.    A marauding Tor Swann run which ended with his cross being met by an acrobatic overhead kick from Dan Koita, although clearing the crossbar, seemed to give Tivvy an imprint on the game.    A solid intervention from Brooklyn Wilkins halted Parkway progress and when the ball filtered through to Koita, he showed good vision in spotting the advancing Jagger Cane, but a timely piece of covering round from commanding centre back Taylor Scarff prevented him from being played in.    Then Matt Wonnacott was called into action, as a good spell from our hosts saw Sullivan's mazy run end with the Torquay loanee showing good handling, but the Parkway man’s directed shot was straight at him. With just over 20 minutes played, a crucial, well-timed tackle from Wilkins thwarted Parkway inside the area.    In the 28 th minute after some patient and progressive possession football from Asa Hall’s men, a decent chance fell to Koita, however he screwed his shot wide of keeper Isaac Finch’s goal. Just beyond the half hour mark a clear opportunity for Sullivan was once again too close to Wonnacott. His goal bound effort being easily foiled.    Some backs to the wall defending from Hall then impressively came to the Yellows rescue, as he saved a certain goal in clearing to safety from inside the six-yard box. Wonnacott palming away, shortly after.    A clever ball from Wilkins sent Koita down the line in the 39 th minute, who in turn found Jagger Cane. The snap header though from the not fully match-sharp frontman went astray.     Kennell and Billington were both busy in the engine room, but as both sides headed for the dressing rooms in a tense first 45, the keeper’s had been largely untroubled. Keeping things tight though has been an occupational hazard for Tiverton and to go in goalless was heartening.    Brooklyn Wilkins who was in the thick of the action in the opening period, picked up a knock in the first half and Jacob Wellington was the player that replaced him before the match resumed.     A little way into the closing half, a stinging Tor Swann effort from a tight angle was clawed away by Finch, as Tiverton spurred on by new addition to the dugout David Steele, looked to impose themselves on the game. Although in the 48 th minute Harry Hutchinson threw out a determined trailing leg to deflect a shot from close in, wide down the other end.    The elusive opener though followed a spell of wrestling for the ascendancy and it was the home side and former Yellow Callum Hall who provided that moment. A scuffed shot from a Parkway player was blocked and leapt up to the midfielder who supplied an accomplished, cushioned finish from close range, with 66 minutes played.    The Yellows were though not in unchartered territory and a rallying cry from the committed Harry Hutchinson provoked a stirring response from the team as they immediately probed for an equaliser. However, a quick break from the hosts that ventured into the Yellows box required the assured Wonnacott to flex a strong hand out to deny them.    With 77 minutes on the clock a piece of trickery along the byline from Wellington resulted in a corner. Koita then produced a similar bit of skill in teasing his way along the byline, showing excellent feet. Another corner was the outcome for a purposeful Tiverton.    The same player then fizzed the ball into the box and only a desperate block denied Tor Swann’s effort that was goal bound. Tivvy though were rewarded for their unflinching pursuit of something from this game in the 83 rd minute, when Koita latched onto an inviting pass from Hall, cut inside and into the box, he was up ended and the referee pointed to the spot.    Up stepped Tor Swann and he conclusively beat Finch down the middle. Swann celebrating with the away support who were yet to know that they would soon be basking in the glory of a rare victory.    Galvanised by the goal, Asa Hall, Steve Orchard and David Steele’s side pressed for a winner. Jagger Cane, who had linked up play well on his return, dragged a really good opportunity wide after being set up by Koita and Wellington also fired beyond the other side of the post.    Substitutions were made in the final stages as Steve Orchard and David Steele looked for a fresh impetus. Ryan Keates and under 18 Will Collins coming on for Jagger Cane and Koita, as the Yellows pressed for all three points.     A low, hard cross was played into Parkway’s area from over on the home sides left and when it made its way to Swann, he cooly faked to shoot, to make room and then turned home as we entered added time. The talented winger’s brace sparking scenes in the away end.    The team professionally managed the five additional minutes and were deservedly victorious. There has been little to celebrate this season, so this was a very well received result. Next Saturday’s New Year fixture at the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium against Taunton will take place with a little momentum and a slither of renewed hope. So, let’s get behind the lads!      Tiverton: Matt Wonnacott, Brooklyn Wilkins (46), Corey Koerner, Jack Kennell, Toby Down, Tor Swann, Asa Hall, Dan Koita (90+5), Louis Jagger Cane (90+4), Gabe Billington, Harry Hutchinson. Substitutes: John Ross, Matt Wood, Jacob Wellington (46), Ryan Keates (90+5), Will Collins (90+4).

Plymouth Parkway vs Tiverton Town Saturday 27th December 3pm Kick off Bolitho Park In the first of two games over the festive period, a Devon Derby is on the Yellows agenda. Plymouth Parkway and ourselves have for a few seasons now reached this fixture, both having a relegation battle on their hands. Though since they joined us in this division, we have failed to beat our South Devon rivals. One defeat and five draws reveal how closely fought these games usually are.    The relatively short journey this time to Parkway, will be taken with Tiverton deep in trouble at the foot of the table. Our hosts though are hovering just above the relegation places and ahead of playing against Tivvy, they suffered a 4-0 reverse against formidable Farnham Town.   Realistically Tivvy can ill afford to lose either of their games over Christmas, if they are to perform what would be a miraculous escape of epic proportions. Adrift and with a backlog of home fixtures to fulfil, points are required urgently.    Asa Hall and Steve Orchard’s troops have showed a lot of spirit in adversity, which is commendable. However, their predicament will only ease with better results. On Saturday they will have to overcome the odds on a few fronts but will nevertheless be determined to make that happen.    Minor injuries and niggles will have had a good chance to have cleared up, with the postponed matches assisting the player’s recoveries and Louis Jagger Cane should be fit enough to be pushing for selection.  Captain Toby Down will be up against his former club and Corey Koerner was a loanee for Parkway, when he was at Yeovil.    Callum Hall appeared for Tiverton in the 2017/18 and 2018/19 campaigns in a wide capacity mainly as a full back. Returning to his native Plymouth via Willand, he has moved into a central midfield position in which he has flourished with Parkway.     32-year-old Mikey Williams known as ‘The Wizard’, is undoubtedly a gifted footballer. Williams played for the Yellows in the 2015/16 season and a little of the following one. Carlo Garside's cultured displays, saw him enjoy a promising stint with Tiverton in the 2023/24 season.    Jack Veale is another to have been with us in that campaign. Similarly showing good technical qualities during his stay, Veale is now with Parkway, after being at Cardiff Met. The talented Farron Simons spent the first half of last term at the Slee Blackwell Stadium on loan from Truro and has made Parkway his home this term.    Striker Rocky Neal’s scoring exploits at this level are well known and to obtain his signature for this season was an excellent piece of business from our hosts. 86 goals from 157 games in this league highlights the danger he possesses. Prolific for both Taunton and Truro for whom he was playing in the National League South, until moving to Parkway. Neal was briefly with Tivvy in the 2015/2016 campaign.    Attacking player James Watts-Barciela has caught the eye. The 19-year-old winger/frontman has had an impressive emergence over the last two seasons. The exciting performer also had a short loan spell with Willand during the previous season.    Captain Rio Garside is the older of the Two brothers at Bolitho Park. A driving, energetic and inspirational midfielder, Garside is a former Plymouth Argyle academy player who was with Truro for the 2019/20 and 2020/21 seasons. He moved to Parkway during the following campaign, becoming a mainstay and is close to making 200 appearances in this division.    Seasoned performers at this level and higher are Ryan Brett and Shane White. Between them they have a wealth of experience.     Veteran midfielder Brett now 35, played many games for Truro in the National League South and prior to that Salisbury City. Beginning his football journey in Plymouth’s academy. Playing over 200 times for the Tinners, more than 100 league games for Taunton, Brett has unquestionable pedigree and knowhow.    The versatile Shane White has followed a similar path. He came through the Pilgrims youth set up at the same time, White also made well over 200 appearances at Truro and is a combative, leader on the pitch. Four campaigns with Taunton, where he was an integral part of their success in between a return to the Tinners preceded his arrival at Bolitho Park.    Highly rated, young defender Tylor Love-Holmes is contracted to National League Truro, as he was last term. A popular loanee for Parkway then when he made a big impression, he has returned on loan again and began his senior career in the area with Saltash.    Another loanee, this time from Premier League Bournemouth is keeper Mack Allan. The 19-year-old has previously had loan spells with Totton and Basingstoke, having been touted to have a big future in the game. He has made the number one spot his own.    Manager Chris McPhee through his work at Exeter City has strong links to their academy and some young Grecians and previous young Exeter players are part of the squad he has assembled. Parkway’s boss oversaw a good run in the FA Trophy, where his side won three games.    McPhee had a decent EFL career as a forward. Making over 130 league appearances; 60 for Brighton, 63 for Torquay and eight for Swindon on loan from Brighton. Additionally, he has good non-league pedigree too. Winning the FA Trophy with Ebbsfleet, scoring the winning goal against Torquay and receiving the MOTM award. He served Kidderminster Harriers, Weymouth and Salisbury too.    Asa Hall will be picking his wits against McPhee for the first time and will be hoping that his team will be firing on all cylinders in Plymouth. The coaching and playing staff will be looking to take momentum from this game into the hotly anticipated one at home against Taunton, next weekend. As always, let’s give the lads our support!

We can now confirm the new dates for our recently postponed fixtures with Basingstoke Town and Wimborne Town and we will, weather permitting, welcome them both to the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium as follows: Basingstoke Town - Tuesday 20th January 2026. 7:45pm kick off. Wimborne Town - Tuesday 10th February 2026. 7:45pm kick off. New dates for our other postponed fixtures, at home to Dorchester Town, Havant & Waterlooville and Gloucester City are as yet still unconfirmed. #OneTownOneTeamOneTivvy 💛

Tiverton Town vs Dorchester Town Saturday 20th December 3pm Kick off The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium The weather gods are not being kind to us at the moment, let's hope that changes before Saturday, for the visit of Dorchester. Victories have been in short supply this term, but the Magpies were an early victim for Asa Hall and Steve Orchard's side. Given what's happened since, the chance to do the double will probably need to be taken, with points and wins becoming a necessity.    Harry Hutchinson who featured on that evening back in the August for the Dorset side, may be ruled out of this one with the terms of his loan agreement, but the Yellows will be monitoring the fitness of Louis Jagger Cane who returned to action as a second half substitute on Saturday against Farnham and may play a fuller part at the weekend.    Illness and injury robbed Tiverton of Corey Koerner and Brooklyn Wilkins respectively, the former before kick-off and the latter with only ten minutes on the clock, in Saturday’s defeat.  Physio Tony Cornish will be aiming to have as many players as he can be available for the management team, in what is another crucial game in the scheme of things.    Dorchester arrive at the Slee Blackwell Stadium on the back of a 4-1 win in the Dorset Senior Cup, when Gillingham Town were their opponents. Former Yellows favourite Joe Parker helping himself to a first half hattrick. On Saturday however Tom Killick’s men, suffered defeat at the hands of Sholing on the road, in league action.    The Magpies sit outside the relegation places, although it's not been a walk in the park for them and many thought they would be challenging further up the table this season. Dorset rivals Poole Town manager for many years Tom Killick who was a popular striker for the team he is now overseeing, is a wily operator in this division.    A major signing for him in the off season was that of Joe Parker from Tiverton. Parker has six goals from seventeen games this term and the ex-Gloucester City player is a threat that Asa Hall will know all about. I’m sure he will receive a good reception, as he returns to the scene of many inspirational displays.    Wayne Robinson and Jadyn Crosbie are other attacking threats. Robinson on his day is a very dangerous attacker who has played for the likes of Salisbury and Sholing. Powerful, pacy and with good feet, the 24-year-old has the ability to get his side up the pitch very quickly.     Crosbie is a striker on loan from Torquay, who has previously been a loanee with Gloucester City, although it was at Mangotsfield where his talent blossomed and attracted the likes of the Gulls to him. Luke Pardoe is one of a number of players that Killick has a Poole association with and the striker who came through Bournemouth’s academy and spent four seasons at Poole. The talented marksman has been with the Magpies since the 2023/24 campaign.    Dorchester’s midfield includes Jack Dickson, a top performer in this division. A player who was with Poole for over a decade, separated briefly by a stint at Weymouth. His senior playing days began when the Dolphins were playing higher up the non-league pyramid. A valuable asset at this level, Dickson has been a Magpie since the 2023/24 season.    Attacking midfielder Tom Smith was a firm favourite at Bath City in National League South, having previously played in the EFL for Swindon Town and Cheltenham Town. He made over 200 appearances for the Romans and was with Taunton Town last term. The dangerous and creative Smith has also had a stint at Dagenham & Redbridge and is 27.    Midfielder/forward Marcus Daws is another ex-Dolphin and was prior to that at Bournemouth. Daws is another to have signed for Dorchester in the 2023/24 campaign. Some time away the following season at Totton was short and he has been a permanent member of the Magpies squad since.    A seasoned player in this division is schemer Corby Moore. The 32-year-old midfielder was part of Southampton’s Premier League squad in 2012/13 and also made a solitary appearance in the EFL for Forest Green in the 2015/16 season. He played 220 league games for Poole and initially those appearances were made a step higher in non-league circles. The inspirational Moore is another to have made the move in the 23/24 season.    Exceeding well over 100 games for Weymouth earlier in his playing days, the cultured midfield playmaker Cameron Murray is another to have played for Poole. It was in the 2018/19 season when he began with the Dolphins. Last term he was a Gosport Borough player; this term he is a Magpie.    28-year-old defensive midfielder Matt Buse has acquired lots of experience in non-league football. Having Torquay, Weymouth, Bath City, Truro, Wealdstone and Taunton on your CV, shows an impressive pedigree. Buse’s services were acquired last season.    The vast knowledge and pedigree of Will Spetch is of huge value. He is sixteen seasons’ in from the beginning of his senior career in the 2011/12 campaign and 34-year-old Spetch was a mainstay of Poole’s backline for thirteen of those seasons. Quite a few of those were spent under Tom Killick and the two were reunited again during the 2023/24 campaign.    28-year-old Gerard Benfield is Dorchester’s number one. A talented stopper at this level, Weymouth, Salisbury and Wimborne have all called on his services in the past. The in-demand keeper, permanently moved to the Avenue Stadium in the close season, after being on loan from Weymouth in the previous campaign.    Wins are the order of the day, with ground lost on relegation rivals through disappointing results and inactivity. Nothing comes easy in this league, so the lads will need to improve, be at their best and maintain better standards if they are close the gap and make progress. So, let’s get behind Asa, Steve and the lads.  #OneTownOneTeamOneTivvy 💛

Tiverton Town FC are delighted to be able to confirm the appointment of David Steele, who joins as First Team Coach, following his recent departure from Taunton Town. David, the son of former assistant manager & player Hedley Steele, made 275 first team appearances for the Yellows between 2001 and 2013, with a period away from the club, starting in the summer of 2006 which included time at Bideford and the first of two spells as a player at Willand Rovers, before returning to Tiverton at the start of the 2010/11 season. His second playing spell at Willand culminated in his first taste of life in the dugout, once he`d called time on his illustrious playing career, were he successfully led them to promotion to the Southern League for the first time in the clubs history. David, on his return to club said: "Obviously I`m delighted to be back to where it all began for me and I`m extremely grateful for the opportunity to join the coaching staff. Many of my fondest footballing memories have come from previous spells at the club, with hopefully many more to come. My primary focus will be to support Asa and Steve in every way I can, and hopefully that will create a positive knock‑on effect, helping us to pick up more points along the way". Welcome aboard David. #OneTownOneTeamOneTivvy 💛

Tiverton Town vs Gloucester City Tuesday 16th December 7:45pm Kick off The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium It's been over six weeks since the team have played in front of their own fans. In that time our battle for survival has become harder and harder. A crumb of comfort is that with thirteen games remaining at the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium, including this one against Gloucester, good home form could make an immeasurable difference.    Our supporters will welcome back Dylan Jones, a hugely popular and inspirational player for us in recent times and also Marcus Day, a classy winger who definitely deserved more of a chance last season. Also Kane Simpson the gifted striker who left Taunton at the back end of October, for footballing reasons.    Injury forced Asa Hall and Steve Orchard into making one change prior to kick off and a second after ten minutes of play on Saturday. Corey Koerner due to illness ahead of kick off and Brooklyn Wilkins through injury, a little way into the match were the players affected, so that will influence team selection, with the short time between that game and this one.    The heartening sight of top scorer Louis Jagger Cane back in action after a lay off was a positive from the 5-0 Farnham defeat. He may need time to be up to speed; in building up to full match fitness and I’m sure physio Tony Cornish will oversee a sensible programme, as he regains full fitness.    Our management duo will be banking on a full complement of strikers to choose from, for this midweek fixture. However, unless the team can rapidly stop conceding goals, their criteria is almost an impossible one to deliver.    Gloucester look better equipped this term and Daf Williams’ who replaced Mike Cook who parted company with the Tigers at the end of last season, has wasted no time in putting his own stamp on things at the Tiger Turf Stadium. Wholesale changes to the squad were made in pre-season.    The young Welshman is 33 years old and held the post of assistant manager at Newport County before accepting the role with Gloucester. Cited for being an attacking and inventive boss, he has previously been an assistant manager at the club.    Making many additions to the squad in the close season, he persuaded striker Kane Simpson to swap the Peacocks for the Tigers. Simpson’s decision many believe fast tracked the demise of play off hopeful’s Taunton and ultimately ended with the resignation of manager Richard Luffman.    Simpson didn't set the world alight when he was with us, but in a stay blighted by injury there were glimpses of his potential, which he fulfilled with Merthyr last season. With eleven goals in 18 games in Southern League Premier South this term and 5 in 7 since his arrival at his new club, the early signs are Williams has made a very good choice.    Wide man Harry Pinchard has proved to be a massive hit with the Gloucester faithful after joining the club last season, following a good football upbringing at Hereford. He has continued that into this campaign, and his six goals emphasise his threat in the final third.    The promising King Baidoo who was on loan at Yate in the league below last season has chipped in with four goals and the club have high hopes for the talented forward.     A player who has always performed strongly at this level is mercurial winger Elis Watts and a proven scorer from his wide berth at Hungerford and Weston super Mare, the skilful Welshman Watts who was a pro at Newport County is a real talent. He also has contributed 5 goals to their campaign.    Emerging forward Sop Obieri is on loan from EFL side Cheltenham and has previous experience of this division with Hungerford. Yet to make his EFL bow, there are high hopes for the young forward in the professional game. He has featured in the majority of the Tigers games during this campaign.    Aaron Wildig has endured his fair share of injury problems, but the former Morecombe captain’s pedigree is untold. The 33-year-old exceeded over 300 appearances in the EFL for Morecombe, Newport County, Shrewsbury and Cardiff, which is where he started his senior career    Midfielder Joe Hanks is a managers dream and Gloucester’s top scorer has eight goals to his name this term. The former Cheltenham EFL man notched twenty goals in the last campaign and is on course to surpass that tally, this season. The impressive technical player will need to be closely monitored.    Fellow midfielder Harry Emmett is an ever present and the local lad who has been with Gloucester since the 2023/24 season, but began his senior career with Cinderford, has become a valuable asset following a loan spell with Redditch United last term.    Imposing centre back Ben Richards-Everton has a notable CV. The Birmingham native has played in the Scottish Premiership for Partick Thistle. The 34-year-old also played for Airdrieonians and Dunfermline, North of the border. Moving onto Accrington Stanley and then Bradford City in the EFL. National League spells with Barnet, Yeovil and Scunthorpe highlight his pedigree and experience.    Veteran defender Daniel Leadbitter who made in excess of 100 appearances in the EFL for the likes of Torquay, Bristol Rovers and Newport County has made Gloucester City his home since the 2020/21 campaign and the classy defender who was with his local team Newcastle United in his Youth, will be an important voice in the dressing room.    Another ever present is defender Ed Williams. The 30-year old’s playing career has included Doncaster Rovers and Kidderminster Harriers higher up the football pyramid. A quality performer in this standard of football and a favourite at Gloucester over three spells, he is a big player for the Tigers.    Establishing himself as the Tigers custodian is ex Chelsea Academy prospect Jared Thompson. This is his second season with the club, and the Popular Gloveman has also played in higher non-league circles, for the likes of Chippenham and Weymouth and is a top talent at this level.    The Yellows will need to be at their best to take points from this match and will additionally need to believe in their abilities and strengths. This is a big week for the team going forward, with Dorchester to follow at the weekend. The fans will as always be right behind the lads.

Farnham Town 5 Booth 3 Evans 6 Ogo 75, 87 Dean 89 Tiverton Town 0 Saturday 13th December The Memorial Ground Attendance: 737 From the outside it appears that with every passing game our plight is becoming that much harder. Although being in and around football dressing rooms for a large percentage of my life I know that there will still be a belief from the inside, that this downward trend can be averted. However painful defeats like these must be extremely difficult to take.    Surrey side Farnham have acclimatised to this level of football very well since promotion and find themselves nestled in the play-offs, with dreamland aspirations of a third successive promotion. Two postponements had perhaps stifled a bit of momentum that the Yellows could have taken into this game.    Asa Hall and Steve Orchard welcomed back Louis Jagger Cane to the matchday squad and Gabe Billington who wasn’t available for the Poole game. Both took their places on the bench, with Dan Koita back in the starting line-up, after a second half cameo in Tiverton’s last match.    A late change just before kick-off saw Jacob Wellington replace Corey Koerner who missed out through illness and keeper John Ross was also amongst the substitutes. For fans of Reality TV, Love Islander Harry Cooksley was part of the hosts midfield. However, the influential Matt Mackenzie was absent due to concussion protocols.    It was the Yellows who were dazed though, in the third minute of this game when wide man Beaux Booth showed good feet, as he was allowed to travel a fair distance along the touchline before cutting inside to decisively fire past Matt Wonnacott in Tiverton’s goal.    It proved to be a baptism of fire for Asa Hall’s men, as three minutes later the young Torquay loanee keeper was once again picking the ball out of the back of his net. It was Sam Evans who was played in, and he calmly slotted home past the exposed Wonnacott.    This of course wasn’t an unusual occurrence for this Yellows side, who had succumbed to the Town’s fast, flowing start. A second enforced change then had to be made, with the injured Brooklyn Wilkins making way for Gabe Billington. Two nil and two players’ down.    Not for the first time during this campaign they dusted themselves off and slowly grew in confidence, matching their much higher opponents for a large portion of the rest of the half. There was a close shave though in the 23 rd minute when Adam Liddle flashed a cross across the six-yard box and missed a host of onrushing Town players.    Billington and Swann then made good progress out wide, exchanging passes as they carried the ball deeper into Farnham territory. Billington’s cross- come shot going across the face of the area though, had a similar result as Liddle’s delivery.  The Yellows were then awarded a free kick on the edge of the Dee, but despite Swann getting the ball up over the wall, he couldn’t keep his attempt down.    Around the half hour mark, defender Dan Bayliss headed beyond the Tiverton crossbar from around the penalty spot, when up for a set-piece for the hosts. A warning as the visitors tried gallantly to get a goal back, that Farnham with another goal could realistically have this game wrapped up, before the interval.    Swann then scampered down the home sides left, tricking his way into a crossing position and finding Dan Koita. Tiverton’s number nine though was marked tightly and his downward header rolled tamely into Michael Eacott, the Town number one's arms.    In the 38 th minute a glaring miss from Liddle let Asa Hall’s side off the hook. A sweeping move from our opponents ending with the striker lifting over, when only a few yards out. Toby Down’s determined defending also prevented our hosts from adding a third, as he strongly held off a posse of players in claret and blue, three minutes later.    Just prior to the break Swann and Aiden Horne combined well, but the latter couldn’t quite reverse his ball into the lively Swann’s path and half time arrived with the Yellows hopes in a delicate position. Knowing that one goal would give them a foothold in the game, but another for the Town would put the game beyond them.    The Surrey side gained the upper- hand at the start of the second period and a dangerous cut back just evaded Jack Dean at the back post with Tiverton stretched in the 48 th minute. Harry Hutchinson then stepped up to bludgeon a free kick from a wide area towards goal. His superbly struck effort produced a wonderful save from Eacott, to deny the Dorchester loanee.    That happened in the 51 st minute and a short while later the Yellows were holding their breath down the other end, as strikes from Liddle, Booth and captain Ryan Kinnane all threatened to close the game out, for the home side. Two excellent blocks’ from Down and Matt Wood inside our box, then denied substitute Darryl Sanders and ex Cambridge United man, Bobby-Joe Taylor.    Intense pressure from Farnham and in the 70 th minute some alert goalkeeping from Wonnacott saw him, take the ball away from an attacker who had broken our defensive line. Our resistance was broken in the 73 rd minute when the referee controversially allowed a goal to stand, regardless of a handball in the build up to it.     A Town player on the floor pushing the ball away from Billington and as the ball eventually found its way through to forward Ogo Obi, he pretty much ended Tiverton’s ambitions in this game. Jack Kennell then set up Koita, who connected well with his shot, but Eacott impressively parried away.    One plus on another chastening day at the office was the return of Louis Jagger Cane from injury in the 75 th minute, with Aiden Horne being substituted. 77 minutes had elapsed when Wonnacott made a fine reflex save, to keep out the dangerous Taylor.    A driving run from Swann ended with a curling effort from a good position, arrowing wide. However, in the 87 th minute our hosts pulled away further. Obi completing a brace with his eighth goal of the campaign, as the Yellows defensive frailties were exposed once again. Obi walking the ball into the goal.     Our misery was compounded a minute later, as second half substitute Owen Dean made it five, after getting the better of a one-on-one with Wonnacott. A sixth almost followed when Sanders rattled a post and in added time as Taylor skied his attempt, when facing an unmanned goal.    There is no hiding from another comprehensive loss and there will be plenty to assess before Tuesday evening as we host high riding Gloucester City. For what seems like the inevitable not becoming a reality, the Yellows will need to start pulling off some unlikely wins. As always, they can count on the loyal support of their fans at the Slee Blackwell stadium then. Tiverton: Matt Wonnacott, Brooklyn Wilkins (10), Jack Kennell, Matt Wood, Toby Down, Tor Swann, Asa Hall, Dan Koita, Jacob Wellington, Harry Hutchinson, Aiden Horne (75). Substitutes: John Ross, Louis Jagger Cane (75), Gabe Billington (10).