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Tiverton Town vs Basingstoke Town Saturday 6th December 3pm kick off The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium A good festive month will be needed to put us back within touching distance of safety. There are plenty of points to play for, but equally a solid run of results and momentum will be fundamental in what has become the annual Tiverton survival act. What should be seen as an excellent point in Dorset against a very good Poole side last Tuesday, is hopefully a springboard to better results on the pitch. Fielding Matt Wonacott and fellow new midfield signings that evening, Ryan Keates and Jack Kennell in the line-up, helped to achieve that outcome and the fans will be watching with interest to see how Saturday’s eleven fare.    Absentees, long term and otherwise, saw Asa Hall and Steve Orchard having to do without Dean Moxey, Louis Jagger Cane and Gabe Billington. Dan Koita was not deemed fit enough to start against the Dolphins, but it must be said that the team performed admirably and encouragingly then and in the slim defeat against Gosport that preceded it.    Our opposition come in the form of lower mid-table Basingstoke. The Hampshire side who began the season with Charlie Austin at their disposal, have had a mixed bag of results. Manager Dan Brownlie and his team will be intent on ending a four-game losing sequence. They went down 3-0 at home to the imperious Walton & Hersham at the Weekend. Brownlie, in this day and age, should be regarded as a long serving boss at Basingstoke, having instigated the sides resurgence since taking over the role in 2019. The construction of this current squad is an impressive one, with plenty of notable non-league players available to him.    Not typically big scorers this season and with Charlie Austin moving on, it is George Reid who has good goals by game statistics. Five from eleven league games for the former Didcot and Swindon Supermarine striker, leads the way. The talented marksman is in a second spell at the club, which he began in the 2023/24 campaign. Nursing an injury, he could return on Saturday.    Though don’t discount the threat of Liam Ferdinand who despite going through a lean spell this term, has proven form in this division, as his 22 goals from 40 League games when playing for a strong Met Police outfit in the 2020/21 season emphasises. The dangerous predator who also has stints with Farnborough, Chesham and Bracknell on his playing profile is a very good option to have.    Look out also for loan signing Josh Dolling who arrived at the start of November from National South Totton. Dolling can be deployed as either an attacking midfielder or as a forward. His football abilities saw him play in Blackburn Rovers, Manchester United and Burnley’s academies during his formative years. Further experience in the USA collegiate system and in the Northern League with Trafford and Preston Cables will have proved invaluable.    Hardworking and technical midfielder Ben Cook has established himself as a regular starter over the past few campaigns. His time at Stoke was briefly interrupted by a short spell away at divisional rivals Bracknell, but since the 2019/ 20 season he has made close to 150 senior appearances in all competitions.    Midfield player D’Andre Brown is another constant for the visitors under Brownlie. 100 games into his senior career all made at Stoke, the energetic and skilful performer has virtually been at the club, during his manager’s tenure. With Hungerford, Wealdstone and Hayes & Yeading on his CV when all three sides were playing at higher non-league levels than they are now, James Clark is a highly influential player in our visitor’s defence. Clark’s versatility has seen him flourish in a number of positions.    34-year-old centre back Jack Ball is a dependable leader in the away sides' backline. A mainstay at Farnborough, who also was at another side who now play a step higher Salisbury, will be sure to be an excellent talker both on the pitch and in the dressing room. Ball is a skilled defender and organiser. This is a settled defensive unit with Scott Armsworth and Billy Upton also regular components of it. Armsworth’s football upbringing began in Fulham’s academy set up and he too is an accomplished defender. Popular with the fans, Upton has been plying his trade with Stoke for the past three seasons.    Marcus Johnson-Schuster is at our visitors for the third occasion, and this is his most sustained period. The former Plymouth Argyle youngster has carved out quite a career in non-league circles. A Braintree and Hungerford player a step further up the pyramid, the cultured 30-year-old full back has both pedigree and experience.    To complete Brownlie’s numerous defensive options is Joe O’Loughlin. Now 26, the former Bath University player, represented the Yellows in the 2022/23 campaign and the full back who played for Frome either side of his time with Tivvy, has also worn the colours of Yate and Tavistock. A relocation sees the attacking full back return to a previous stomping ground as part of the opposition.    Behind the defence and currently in possession of the gloves is Joel Halliday who was with Chertsey when the season began, although commanding keeper Simon Grant has played in most of Stokes` games this term. The 33-year-old was Marlow’s number one for eight seasons and with Hungerford, Hayes & Yeading and Bracknell all acquiring his services in the past, he is very respected for his all-round abilities as a keeper.    Can the team make progress by delivering what would be only their second Southern League Premier South home victory of the 2025/26 campaign ? The Slee Blackwell Stadium will have to become a fortress if we are to remain competitive in this standard of football. The signs have been encouraging and the will to do this is definitely present in this group of players. So, let’s get behind the lads.  #OneTownOneTeamOneTivvy 💛

Tiverton Town vs Havant & Waterlooville Saturday 29th November 3pm kick off The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium Following four away games in November, the Yellows end the month back on home territory where they will face a Havant & Waterlooville side, who many predicted before the campaign got underway, would be amongst the front- runners but instead they, at this stage of the season, are also amongst the strugglers.    With quite a gap to make up on those currently above the relegation places the Yellows will have to chip away at those directly above them and hopefully that should see them climb a few places before the turn of the year. On Saturday both sides will be scrapping for points. The Hawks will be looking to pull further away from us, whilst we will be looking to move closer to them.    The management team have freshened things up over the last ten days or so, with keepers Matt Wonnacott and Marko Radovanovic arriving at the club, along with midfielders Ryan Keates and Jack Kennell. Aiden Horne definitely didn’t disappoint when starting against Poole in that astonishing 5-5 draw in Dorset on Tuesday night and neither did Tor Swann who took up more of a central role, with both of them scoring braces in that epic game.     With Dan Koita adjudged not fit enough to start against the Dolphins, but a second half substitute, there is plenty of in-form fire power available to Asa Hall and Steve Orchard. Another marksman, Louis Jagger Cane, has been out with a hamstring injury.    Our opponents on Saturday have recently made a managerial change, parting company with Shaun North and installing former Southampton player Aaron Martin as the new man in charge. His opening games in the hotseat were both against other teams at the wrong end of the table. A 3-0 loss at Bracknell on Nov 17 th was followed by a 2-0 home win last weekend and on Wednesday night they drew 1-1 against Chertsey at home.    Striker Ryan Seager has amassed quite a tally of goals in the past few seasons in the Southern League Premier South. Scoring almost a goal a game, he has a record of 46 goals from 54 matches. The lethal frontman has EFL pedigree and played once for Southampton in the Premier League and made a second appearance in The FA Cup. MK Dons, Crewe Alexandra and Yeovil Town are his other pro clubs along with a spell in Dutch football with Telstar. Seager now 29, has also represented Dorking Wanderers in the National League and Hungerford and his current side in National League South.    The emerging Ethan Giwa-McNeil has made a good start to life at his new club, after spending time with Baldock Town and Biggleswade Town, last term. The much-travelled Nana Owusu is a wide man who possesses lots of flair. Originally a trainee at Reading, the gifted Owusu has played for the likes of Maidenhead, Oxford City and Walton & Hersham, to name a few of his clubs.    Alfy Whittingham, the son of Guy Whittingham, also has had many destinations. The talented 27 year old central midfielder is actually in his fourth spell with the Hawks. Previously playing higher up the football pyramid with his current side, Aldershot, Hungerford and Hampton & Richmond.    Nigel Atangana is no stranger to these parts, having travelled here with Exeter City in pre season on a few occasions. The veteran midfielder now 36, had a successful EFL career, playing for Portsmouth, Leyton Orient and Cheltenham as well as the Grecians. He joined the Hawks from Eastleigh at the start of the 2024/25 campaign.    23 year old Olly Pendlebury is an influential player in Havant & Waterlooville’s midfield. His CV includes Reading and senior appearances with Wycombe Wanderers in the EFL. The creative Pendlebury also has pedigree in the non league, where he has worn the colours of Woking, Farnborough and Aldershot.    Centre back George Milner-Smith has made a big impression on Hawks supporters since initially spending a loan period at the club from parent club Aldershot. The technical young player has now made a permanent move to Havant & Waterlooville.  Milner-Smith was also on loan at Sholing and Chertsey whilst at the Shots. Fellow defender Brendan Willson is a fairly experienced player at semi-pro level. Beginning his playing career at Eastleigh, he was also at Weymouth playing a step higher in the 2022/23 season, as a loanee. A loan spell at our visitors and a second at Poole in the season after, has given Willson, a talented young footballer, a good early grounding.    Vying to be Havant and Waterlooville’s number one are Lorenz Ferdinand, son of Rio, a highly thought of keeper who is on loan from Premier League Brighton and Ben Dudzinski, a vastly experienced custodian who has played higher up the pyramid and his CV includes Sutton United, Oxford City, Dartford and the Hawks when they were playing a step higher.    This should be a close fought encounter, with a lot riding on the game. With the absence of a home game for the first team, so far this month it will be much anticipated by our loyal support. So let’s get behind the lads.  #OneTownOneTeamOneTivvy 💛

Poole Town 5 Gwengwe 4, 24, 66 Davis 19 Campbell 35 Tiverton Town 5 Swann 2, 7 Horne 16, 45 Wood 44 Tuesday 25th November The BlackGold Stadium Attendance: 473. It's been a hard slog for all associated with Tiverton Town FC and we are a long way from being out of the woods, but from the madness of this bizarre evening of football in Dorset comes the first positive result since September 20 th versus Uxbridge.     A bruising couple of months have played out and it is testament to the coaches and players, that they have found the resolve and capacity to dig deep and go toe-to-toe with highflyers Poole Town, who started the evening in Third place. Coupled with a narrow loss against fellow play off hopeful’s Gosport on Saturday, our last two results could be seen as small stepping stones on the road to recovery.    For this midweek goal extravaganza, Asa Hall and Steve Orchard included all four new signings in their matchday squad. Matt Wonnacott taking the number one jersey and midfielders Jack Kennell and Ryan Keates in the starting line-up and keeper Marco Radovanovic amongst the replacements. Aiden Horne who was to play a telling part on the night was brought into the eleven, at the expense of the not fully fit Dan Koita.    Tor Swann moved infield and was paired with Horne and a minute into the game, following an incisive pass in midfield through to Horne, his precisely weighted pass through to his new partner was taken confidently into his path and clinically finished beyond Adam Parkes in Poole’s goal. In the fourth minute Poole were back on level terms. A Yellows foul in the box was punished and from the spot, the league's top scorer Shaquille Gwengwe fired past Wonnacott.     Amazingly on six minutes Tiverton restored their lead. In the first of two look away moments for the keepers, Parkes came a long way out of his goal and squandered possession to the quick-thinking Brooklyn Wilkins, who sent Swann away down the channel. He galloped to the angle and provided an excellent finish with only a little bit of the goal to aim at, beating a recovering defender on the line.    Anyone thinking that the game would settle down at that point would have been seriously mistaken. On the quarter hour mark the Yellows were celebrating their third goal. The opportune Horne whose work off the ball often creates indecision in opposition back-lines, spotted Parkes slightly off of his line and lobbed the highly regarded gloveman to give us a two-goal cushion.    The second look away moment for the keepers happened when Wonnacott misjudged a Charlie Davis cross and the ball found its way into the net. It was 3-2, with only eighteen minutes completed. But the scoring was far from over and on 24 minutes the Dolphins equalised. Wonnacott was left exposed from a through ball and avid goal-getter Gwengwe, was fouled and then converted from the spot.    Poole’s fourth and the games seventh came in the 35 th minute, when ex Swindon Supermarine captain Ryan Campbell took powerful aim from distance and his deflected shot sailed beyond Wonnacott and Tivvy were behind for the first time on this goal frenzied evening. For followers of Tiverton this season there seemed an inevitability about the rest of the game.    However, from a Ryan Keates free kick into the Poole box, as the ball rebounded back off Horne, Matt Wood determinedly slid home to even things up for his side. That goal from the imposing centre back, arrived in the 43 rd minute. Although that wasn’t the end of a dramatic and crazy opening first half.     Hall then let fly with a piledriver a minute later, which skimmed off of the crossbar and then Horne rounded off a nine goal half in added time, as his well struck shot bounced of the underside of the bar and gave us the lead at the break, in a totally insane and entertaining opening period. Poole 4 Tiverton 5 !    With the coaches of both teams able to talk to their players at the break, the sides predictably tightened up when they returned to the pitch. Chances were traded when in the 47 th minute Gwengwe’s effort flew over the bar from close in and then in the 50 th minute Asa Hall tested Parkes from range, but the hosts keeper got down well to deny him.    The heavily involved Gwengwe then slashed an attempt into the side-netting after being set up by ex-Farnborough man Selim Saied. Charlie Davis a seasoned performer in this division, then prized open the Tiverton defensive line, but his splitting ball missed everyone, and it remained 4-5. Wilkins tried his luck from distance, but Parkes was equal to it.    In the 64 th minute Wonnacott produced an excellent reflex stop to keep out the dangerous Gwengwe.  Though a few minutes later, with the Dolphins in the ascendancy, they made their possession count. The combative Billy Lowes invitingly delivered, driven cross found Gwengwe who completed his hattrick.    Our hosts then went for the jugular, and it took some good defensive work from Wilkins and Toby Down to stop growing Poole pressure. The home side showing their play-off credentials with some flowing passages of play. Steve Orchard then made some changes in the 83 rd minute, with Horne who was a bright spark on the night for Tivvy with a brace as his reward, making way for Dan Koita. Ryan Keates who also gave a very good display on his return to Tiverton was replaced by Jacob Wellington.    Wellington was soon into the action and crucially headed away from danger. Then a procession of chances fell to the Yellows, with last-ditch defending preventing a trio of player’s from securing a winner. Blocks and block tackles denying Koita, Swann and Corey Koerner. Swann shone, before Finn Rooke came on for him at the death.     And just before the final whistle a vital gather from Wonnacott, saw the game conclude 5-5. A ten goal thriller to warm a bitterly cold evening.    On paper this was an excellent result and a winter warmer for Tiverton, after a series of disappointing outcomes. Another team in the relegation picture; Havant & Waterlooville visit the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium over the weekend, and the Yellows will be looking to continue moving in the right direction then. Following four successive away games, the fans and players will be looking forward to returning to home soil.  Tiverton: Matt Wonnacott, Brooklyn Wilkins, Corey Koerner, Jack Kennell, Matt Wood, Toby Down, Tor Swann (90), Asa Hall, Ryan Keates (83), Aiden Horne (83), Harry Hutchinson. Substitutes: Marko Radovanovic, Dan Koita (83), Jacob Wellington (83), Finley Rooke (90), George Russell.

Tiverton Town FC are delighted to be able to announce the loan signing of goalkeeper Matt Wonnacott. Matt, who made three appearances for the club at the start of the 2024/25 season before a broken arm cut his first loan spell short, re-joins the Yellows from Torquay United. Matt joined Wigan Athletic in 2022, where he was highly regarded and hailed as an excellent shot stopper and having strong organisational skills, after a very successful start to his career at Torquay, where he drew many plaudits and personal accolades during his rise through the age groups. He then spent a four-month spell on loan at 1874 Northwich before returning to Wigan and then back home to Torquay United in the summer of 2024 before his first spell with us. Matt is available for selection for tonight`s Southern League clash away at Poole Town, which will be broadcast live on Clubber TV. Welcome back to the club Matt. #OneTownOneTeamOneTivvy💛

Poole Town v Tiverton Town  Tuesday 25 th November 7:45 pm Kick off  The BlackGold Stadium    The Yellows came close to ending their losing run on Saturday against Gosport but ultimately fell short. They will be presented with another chance to stem the tide on Tuesday night, when they head to Dorset to take on a Poole side who have had a resurgence this season and are currently in possession of third place in the table.    The Yellows won praise from Gosport assistant manager Mark Summerhill at the weekend, for their performance and quite a few coaches have complimented the team this season. While that is always nice to hear, the rediscovering of a winning mentality remains first prize.    The half time substitutions of Dan Koita and Brooklyn Wilkins may point to some fitness issues ahead of this evening game or those changes could have been either tactical or precautionary. Ruled out on Saturday were Dean Moxey, Louis Jagger Cane and through suspension, new midfield signing Ryan Keates. Our management team will be hoping to include at least one of those players against the Dolphins.    Pat Suraci and Joe Lea who coincidentally were in charge of team affairs at Gosport, before taking over at Poole during the previous campaign, are very young co-managers. Both are in their late twenties, but they have already guided their former side into the play offs.    The acquisition of Shaquille Gwengwe from Dorset rivals Dorchester has so far proven a big success. The powerful and pacy frontman who is of Malawian descent, has hit the ground running at his new club. He leads the way in the league scoring charts, with a notable 16 goals and the ex-Worthing man has always had the tools to reach these prolific heights.    Gwengwe has formed a lethal partnership this term with IK Hill. Hill is a livewire player, who starred for Winchester for a couple of seasons, prior to their relegation. Skillful and elusive he notched 17 goals from 37 games in this league, during the last campaign and is a dynamic performer.    Set piece expert Charlie Davis is a cultured player. He has plenty of pedigree and experience, the much-admired midfielder played over 100 times for Weymouth and was a heavily influential player for Salisbury, Dorchester, Totton and Sholing. This is the 30-year old’s third spell with the Dolphins.    The hardworking and fierce competitor Billy Lowes would be a welcome addition to any midfield at this level. Beginning at Poole, the combative Lowes was a Dorchester player for five seasons and was also at Weymouth earlier in his senior career. He has made well over 100 appearances for our hosts.    There is a vast experience in the Dolphins ranks and the signing of former Swindon Supermarine captain Ryan Campbell in the close season has strengthened that further. The right sided Campbell is a strong technical player in this division with many attributes.     His namesake Kristian Campbell is very popular with the Poole faithful. The left back has good feet and has a real sense of adventure. He has pedigree, having played further up the footballing pyramid for Eastbourne Borough, Welling, Dartford, Tonbridge Angels and Hampton & Richmond.    Defensive midfielder Harvey Slade has established himself as a mainstay in the home sides midfield across the past few campaigns and provides an important screen for the Dolphins backline and distributes the ball well. Silky fellow midfield player Selim Saied who impressed in the reverse fixture earlier in the season, played over 100 times for Farnborough and started at Woking. A loanee in the 2024/25 season, he permanently signed for Poole this term.    Centre back Josh Staunton has perhaps the most eye-catching CV. The 30-year-old former Yeovil captain made over 200 national League appearances. Signing pro terms with Gillingham and Charlton Athletic, he has also represented Dagenham & Redbridge, Boreham Wood, Woking and FC Halifax in what has been a stellar non-league career.    Between the sticks is likely to be Adam Parkes. A young, highly regarded pro with Southampton, Watford and Plymouth, the talented keeper had loan spells with Barnet, Dover and Plymouth Parkway during his pro days. Signing permanently for Parkway after his release from the Pilgrims and he has since played for Taunton and Gosport Borough, becoming a Dolphin this season.    Asa Hall and Steve Orchard found encouragement from our performance at Gosport and were happy with large aspects of that game. Hopefully we can build on that promise and battle hard for much needed points on Tuesday night.

As we reach the four-month mark of the season, the Committee would like to provide an update on key areas of the club's progress as we continue to move forward together.   The Men’s 1st Team This season, Asa, Steve, and the Board set out with a clear plan: to build a more local, youthful squad that would form the core of the team for years to come. This ambitious goal, coupled with a transition from a large number of last season’s players, has presented challenges. Our division is fiercely competitive, with some clubs spending heavily without the need for financial prudence. Competing for players under these conditions is tough, but the management team remains committed to building a strong, competitive side. The Committee has supported the management team with a budget similar to last season, and we are confident that results will improve soon. Anyone who has watched the games can see the quality of football on display, though we need to refine our ability to convert opportunities into points. Rest assured, every member of the club is fully committed to staying in this division and will work tirelessly to achieve that goal.   The Pitch The ongoing issues with the pitch are not new and have been a challenge for some time. Since the retirement of Gordon and Les, we’ve faced difficulties finding suitable replacements to manage the grounds. We thought we had found the right individual over the summer, but unfortunately, they were unable to follow through, leaving us with a limited window to address the situation. Despite this setback, we have invested significantly in improving the pitch, bringing in respected contractors, and working hard to maintain quality. However, with the wet and cold season upon us, conditions remain challenging. Asa and Steve are committed to playing a style of football that relies on a good-quality pitch, and we are working to ensure this is achieved. A positive step forward was the recent appointment of a paid head groundsman, who, along with a team of volunteers, will help improve the pitch over the next couple of months. If you are able to assist, we would welcome your support.   3G Pitch The 3G pitch project is progressing, but as anticipated, it has proven complex. One of the final hurdles involves managing water runoff in a way that meets environmental requirements. Currently, the solution requires the installation of a large, slow-release tank under the pitch. Unfortunately, this comes at a significant cost, and we are exploring alternative options to overcome this challenge. Glenn from XL Planning and our contractors, PST Sports, are working hard to find a viable solution.   We understand how important having a 3G surface is to not only our club but to the wider community and that’s why we have spent so much time working on this project. If there are any people or businesses who would like to get involved in this development we would welcome their contribution. We will provide an update as soon as we have more information.   Community Development This season has seen tremendous growth in our community programs. We’ve launched a Women’s 1st Team, a Girls’ Under 18s team, and a Boys’ Under 16s team, alongside our established Boys’ Under 18s squad. The Women’s team enjoyed an excellent run in the FA Cup, and as of now, our Boys’ Under 18s are still in the competition. Our partnership with Twyford is also progressing positively, and we hope to share more news on this soon. Our Ability Counts sides have recorded a number of wins and continue to progress.   The Slee Blackwell Stadium The club has been working for over two years to secure a new lease for the stadium. With just eight years left on the current lease, accessing most grants has been difficult. Thanks to the hard work of John Smith and others, we now have a draft lease agreement that will grant the club a new 30-year term. This will unlock funding opportunities for stadium improvements, including the pitch. Although the process has taken longer than expected, we are now close to finalising the agreement and securing a brighter future for the club.   The Executive Committee Since Ian Moorcroft’s return as Chairman, the Committee has expanded to include a diverse group of individuals who reflect the club's values. As the club continues to grow with more teams and responsibilities, it’s essential to bring in people who can contribute to our success. If you are interested in joining the club at an executive or committee level, we encourage you to get in touch. Our ambitious roadmap for the future can only succeed if we work together as a community.   Onwards and Upwards 💛

Gosport Borough 3 Caborn 30 Greenwood 76 Taylor 77 Tiverton Town 2 Koita 15 Hall 57 Saturday 22nd November Aerial Direct Stadium Attendance: 649 Conceding in quick succession once again proved our downfall on a day when that aside, for the majority of the afternoon the game plan appeared to work. The reality is though, another loss was endured, by the struggling Yellows in Hampshire versus sixth in the table Gosport.    This game saw new signing from Exmouth Town, midfielder Jack Kennell come straight into the line-up and Marko Radovanovic the former Mangotsfield, Brixham and Buckland keeper was between the sticks after Zak Baker’s loan agreement had expired.    Long term absentee Dean Moxey and top scorer Louis Jagger Cane (hamstring), both didn’t make the matchday squad and Ryan Keates who was also announced on Friday is serving a Southern League suspension. Both sides had to deal with a heavy, watery surface and stormy conditions.    Gosport started strongly and controlled the early play. In the 3 rd   minute, winger Trevor Caborn had the ball in the back of the net, but celebrations for the home side were muted, after the referee’s assistant raised an offside flag. Radovanovic then got down well, to pull off a routine stop to deny striker Ethan Taylor.     Tivvy withstood the Boro’s immediately threatening attacking intent, though were tested again in the 12 th minute, when Ben Greenwood and Rafa Ramos neatly and nimbly exchanged passes out wide. Ramos whipping a cross into the danger area, but evading players of both sides.    By that point though the Yellows had found some rhythm in possession and broke with purpose a few minutes before they supplied the game’s opener. Brooklyn Wilkin’s threaded the ball to Tor Swann, who returned the ball to the marauding wing back, who then released Swann in the Boro’s final third. Collecting Wilkins incisive pass, Swann’s telling cross in, was turned emphatically home by Dan Koita.    Establishing that 15 th minute lead gave Asa Hall and Steve Orchard’s men a much-needed boost and the side continued to play attractively. Confidently knocking the ball around, Tiverton had pushed Gosport out of their stride and were threatening, themselves. Although an alert piece of decisive defending from Wilkins was required, as he intercepted an overlap.     The influence of Swann was stretching our hosts and when he surged forward, his delivery in hung up on the wind, eventually dropping to Hall, whose volley was misplaced. Down the other end following a well-constructed move through the team for the Boro involving Michael Fernandes, Taylor and Greenwood, a wayward shot spoilt an impressive bit of football.    The hot-heeled ex Winchester man Caborn then saw it open up for him in the 26 th minute. He unselfishly looked to play in one of his team-mates with the goal at his mercy and Tivvy had been let off the hook, with the ball spiralling out of harm’s way.    The visitors though were more than holding their own and Koita was always a good focal point and willing runner when the Yellows fashioned together some promising build up play. Good application was on display from the team as a whole, but on the half hour mark Gosport drew level.    Caborn taking the ball in his stride and quickly adjusting his feet, unleashed a magnificent strike from more than twenty yards out centrally, to bludgeon the ball past the helpless Radovanovic. There was an extremely positive reaction to this setback from the Yellows and in the 33 rd minute Koita skilfully beat Greenwood on the by-line, to force a corner.    A half chance from it fell to Hall, though this was made more difficult by the ball riding on the wind and not coming down naturally or quickly. When the ball did drop down to the player manager, a few Gosport players had moved into position to block his attempt.    Radovanovic then showed good handling, when heavily pressured by a few Boro forwards and then in the 38 th minute with our backline breached, Ramos thankfully blazed wide. Minutes later Tiverton’s misunderstanding at the back presented a good chance for the home team, but two players got in each other's way, much to the relief of the watching on Steve Orchard.    It was the visitors though who dominated at the end of the half. A Yellows corner found its way back to Wilkins, whose 43 rd minute, low skidding effort missed the post by a coat of paint. Then Swann rampaged forward and sent in an inviting cross at the end of normal time. With Tivvy committing men forward, this caused panic in the Gosport box. Gabe Billington’s snapshot was just directed off target in concerted pressure from the away side.    Swann was becoming a real pest and as he was about to trick his way beyond the backline, former EFL player Charlie Wassmer made a necessary foul and was carded. From the resulting Free Kick in added time, Koita stole in round the back, but a good defensive header, agonisingly prevented him from putting Tiverton back in front, at the break.    Asa Hall and Steve Orchard’s men finishing the first half with their tail’s up, will have been somewhat encouraged by a well-executed opening forty-five minutes. Two changes were made at the break though, enforced or otherwise ? Finn Rooke replaced Dan Koita and Jacob Wellington came on for Brooklyn Wilkins.    When the game resumed, excellent defending from Toby Down in the 51 st minute, with the physical Ramos at close quarters, saw him head back into Radovanovic’s arms. Busy build up play from the hosts, forced a corner. Fortunately for Tiverton the lively Fernandes missed his kick when in a good position to convert the delivery in.    The Yellows responded in the 54 th minute by gaining a corner themselves. An attempt from the edge of the box, deflecting behind after brushing the side-netting. Swann then was close to regaining the lead, but for the timely intervention of substitute Rory Williams who dispossessed him, as he was about to pull the trigger.    Tiverton had been knocking on the door for a few minutes and from another corner in the 58 th minute, they got their rewards. In a congested Gosport area, Hall turned the ball, into the goal. With renewed hope, a spring was back in the players steps, as they played with fluidity and confidence.     Although Finn Rooke and Steve Orchard were both shown yellow cards in the 64 th minute, following the former’s forceful challenge which provoked optimistic calls from the home bench and Boro players for a stronger punishment. A stop/start passage of play followed, with a number of free kicks and hold ups because of brief injuries. Although the Yellows were still performing well and looking accomplished in possession.     Radovanovic however produced a very good save to maintain our lead.  Seeing the ball late through a crowd of players, he showed very good agility in saving a shot low down to the corner of his goal, that accelerated off of the greasy surface.    That happened with 73 minutes played and a few minutes later, the Yellows were pegged back when substitute Harry Kavanagh crossed from the right channel and his inviting delivery was headed home by the onrushing Greenwood. Conceding straight after conceding is the teams achilles heel and you could suspect a Malaysian betting syndicates influence, for the number of times it’s occurred this season.    Less than a minute later it was 3-2. Prolific ex-Totton striker Ethan Taylor fortuitously finding the net after a defensive error. The team pressed hard for an equaliser and decisive contact was almost made on an 82 nd minute corner. However, that was the closest Tivvy came to levelling in a game that they shouldn’t have been coming away from empty handed. Lots of added time was accumulated and Williams nearly added a fourth with a header, as the hosts finished the game on the front foot.     Positives are to be taken from this defeat, as Gosport are a play-off chasing side, who we ran extremely close. The hunger and the spirit to turn this around remains in the squad, as they visit Poole on Tuesday night.  Tiverton: Marko Radovanovic, Brooklyn Wilkins (46), Corey Koerner, Jack Kennell, Matt Wood, Toby Down, Tor Swann, Asa Hall, Dan Koita (46), Gabe Billington, Harry Hutchinson. Substitutes: Jacob Wellington (46), Aiden Horne, Finley Rooke (46).

Tiverton Town FC are delighted to be able to confirm the signing of midfielder Ryan Keates from near neighbours Willand Rovers. Ryan initially joined Rovers in the summer of 2024 from Brixham AFC and spent a short spell at Exmouth Town at the start of this season before returning to Silver Street in September. In August 2021 he joined then-Southern Division One South side Barnstaple Town from Stoke Gabriel. He had re-joined Stoke Gabriel in February 2020 from Newton Abbot Spurs and was previously with South Devon league side Watcombe Wanderers. Ryan has played for the Yellows in the past, when he made a solitary appearance for the club in 2023 in a 2-1 defeat at Gosport Borough, who the Yellows face at Privett Park tomorrow. Ryan is unavailable for tomorrow as he is currently serving out a suspension. Welcome to the club Ryan. In other news, goalkeeper Zak Baker has returned to parent club Plymouth Argyle at the end of his loan. #OneTownOneTeamOneTivvy 💛

Gosport Borough v Tiverton Town  Saturday 22 nd November 3pm kick off  The AEI Stadium    It will be a fortnight since the Yellows’ last lined up against Hanwell in London. Can the hard work that has been put in on the training ground and the chance to regroup, press the reset button and see the team halt a lengthy losing run?    There will be no shortage of effort or spirit from Asa Hall and Steve Orchard's side on show this Saturday, but they will be very conscious of the areas in which they need to improve if they're to become a competitive side in this division. Ability wise this is a talented crop of players, but a business-like approach collectively is still elusive.    Whether the injuries to Louis Jagger Cane and Dean Moxey have healed sufficiently for them to take some part in this game is questionable, however despite the enormity of the challenge, the squad need to adopt a siege mentality and present a united front against sixth placed, play off chasing Gosport.    Despite Tuesday night’s 1-0 defeat at Wimborne, our hosts in contrast have been in decent form. A draw with Sholing at the end of October on the road, followed by a home win against Hungerford and an away win at Taunton leave The Boro in good shape.    Former Totton boss Glen Howe’s currently manages the Hampshire side and his undoubted experience at this level, has also seen him previously in charge at Dorchester. That obvious know-how has to be a factor in Gosport’s impressive campaign, so far. In his playing days Howe also played with distinction for the club he is now in charge of.    He does have a squad with players who have proven pedigree in this standard of football and higher, from which to choose from. Rafa Ramos who endured a difficult time at Poole last season and then finished the season at Hungerford, has returned to Gosport where he was prolific beforehand and has rediscovered his goalscoring touch.    He has six league goals this term and the tall, gifted striker is supported in the goal’s column by ex-Totton centre forward Ethan Taylor, who has provided a notable 9 goals in this division. Taylor has twelve goal involvements from thirteen games, with three assists highlighting his dangerous all-round forward play.    Forwards Michael Fernandes and Trevor Caborn are both match winners on their day. Fernandes who scored a hattrick against us for Swindon Supermarine during the last campaign can be enigmatic, but the skilful, quick footed winger can also be an explosive proposition. An academy player with Colchester, he has additionally played for Farnborough, Hayes & Yeading, Poole, Salisbury and Hungerford.    Caborn is a much-admired player, after starring for Winchester in the previous two seasons. A well-balanced winger with plenty of ability, he is another to catch the eye when in the opposing line up. The evergreen Dan Wooden has a twelve-year association with the home side. Beginning as a striker, the long serving player has pedigree having played a step higher with the club and began his senior career in the 2011/12 season.    Now utilised primarily as a midfielder, the crowd favourite is a strong performer in The Southern Premier League South. Kaya Tshaka a close season recruit from Havant & Waterlooville is a blossoming talent and has featured heavily for The Boro this term. A regular in midfield, Tshaka is a product of Eastleigh’s youth system and also spent time on loan at Poole.    There is plenty of pedigree in Gosport’s backline. None more so than centre back Charlie Wassmer who played in the EFL for Crawley and Dagenham & Redbridge. A big player in the National League/Conference, he has also represented Hayes and Yeading when they were playing in the Conference, Fleetwood Town, Cambridge United and Maidstone United.     Former Havant & Waterlooville, Totton and Sholing defender Benny Read is a talented and solid performer with a wealth of experience to offer to his new team-mates. He is another to have a good grounding at Eastleigh. Fellow ex-Totton defender Adam Tomasso made over 150 appearances for the Stags and was an integral part of their promotion winning team.    Cultured, left back Rory Williams is into his eleventh season with the Boro. Although the battle-hardened Williams also spent three seasons at Havant & Waterlooville when they were plying their trade higher up the football pyramid.     Ben Greenwood is a left sided defender who was a pro with Bournemouth and made a cup appearance for the first team in the 22/23 campaign. The highly thought of youngster also has good experience with both Eastleigh and Weymouth and has proved a notable acquisition on loan from Farnborough, for our hosts.     Gosport’s number one is talented stopper, 25-year-old Ryan Hall who has spent the majority of his senior career at Aldershot, having been on loan at Dorchester during the 2022/23 campaign, he is an ever present this term.    A new signing has been made, with ex Torquay youngster Jack Kennell arriving from Exmouth Town. The nineteen year old midfielder, a technical player and promising playmaker who was with Willand will come into contention for a starting place. The quest for points is becoming a necessity, and the management team and players will be hoping to turn the fortunes and direction of our season around, starting on Saturday at Gosport.

Tiverton Town FC are delighted to be able to confirm the signing of midfielder Jack Kennell from Exmouth Town. 19-year-old Jack began his career in the youth set up with Torquay United before swapping Plainmoor for Silver Street and Willand Rovers in the summer of 2024, where he spent last season and he then joined Exmouth Town this summer. Jack will be available for selection for this weekends Southern League tie at Gosport Borough. Welcome to the club Jack. #OneTownOneTeamOneTivvy 💛

Tiverton Town FC are saddened to have to announce that Andy Greig has decided to step down from his position on the Executive Committee. Andy joined us in 2022 and has been an integral part of the clubs positive changes off the pitch, as well as promoting the sale of our merchandise and replica kits. Andy added: “It’s been an honour to have represented the club and to have played a small part in its amazing history but now is the right time, for me personally, to step away and allow others to take it further still. As a Tivvy fan, I will not be a stranger though and will continue to support the club" We’d like to place on record our extreme thanks to Andy for all his efforts during his time with us and we wish him well for the future. All the best Andy  #OneTownOneTeamOneTivvy 💛

Hanwell Town 2 Woodcock 54 Duncan 90 Tiverton Town 0 Saturday 8th November OCS Community Stadium Attendance: 239 The Yellows struggles continued on the road yesterday, in West London at Hanwell Town. A sustained difficult period of results was added to, when two second half goals ensured that the Geordies took all three points. Captain Toby Down returned to Tiverton's defence and was one of two changes made to the side that were put to the sword by League leaders Walton & Hersham the previous Saturday. The other seeing Corey Koerner come into Asa Hall and Steve Orchard’s starting eleven, with Finn Rooke and Jacob Wellington those to drop to the bench.    Formation wise it was Zak Baker in goal, a three of Matt Wood, Down and Harry Hutchinson formed the base of Tivvy’s side with Brooklyn Wilkins and Koerner in wing back mode.  A midfield three of Hall, Gabe Billington, Tor Swann. Dan Koita and Aiden Horne led the line.    In an evenly contested and hard-fought opening 45 minutes, hopes were raised. The first meaningful action took place in the 10 th minute, when Hanwell won a free kick on the edge of Tiverton’s box. Free kick specialist Dan Carr’s powerfully struck attempt allowed Zak Baker to demonstrate his agility, as he expertly sprung across and palmed away. In the early exchanges of this game, both defences were solid and despite Swann shifting the ball past his marker and providing a decent cross with 15 minutes’ gone, Dan Koita couldn’t break the shackles of Dwayne Duncan, who cleared away for a corner.  Duncan then closed the door on Koita after he had been sent away down Hanwell’s left by Swann and the Yellows number nine could only foul his marker.    With twenty minutes on the clock, an opening was created for Koita as he was played through on goal. The alert Geordie’s keeper Sam Beasant though, tackled Koita and the game remained goalless. Our hosts then enjoyed a good spell of probing possession, forcing consecutive corners in the process. The hold up play of the physically imposing Alfie Pendlebury was a feature of Hanwell’s attacks and this enabled the threatening Roberto Nditi with his overlapping runs to cause problems for the Yellows out wide. The Yellows themselves were building nicely from the back, but the final ball was often wasteful.    Nditi was continuing to have an impact for Hanwell and in the 35 th minute he skilfully tricked his way past his marker out wide, before carrying the ball deep into Tiverton territory. Although his cross over, was in keeping with the disappointing end product from both teams. A good chance was spurned by the home side though with five minutes of the half remaining. Joe Wilson screwing his shot wide of the upright, when in the clear after Pendlebury had laid the ball through to him. Then twice in quick succession Tor Swann almost broke the Geordies defensive line, but desperate, well-timed tackles from Duncan and Harvey Seabrook prevented him from having goalscoring opportunities.    In added time a pacey, positive piece of forward play from Koita saw him one-on-one with the vastly experienced Beasant and experience prevailed, as a block-save denied the Tivvy frontman and his team a first half lead. The Yellows were very much in the game, as they headed to the dressing room and it had been a decent showing from Asa Hall and Steve Orchard’s men in the opening period.    When we resumed it was Tiverton who signalled their intent by forcing a 47 th minute corner, following Koita manoeuvring his way past Duncan. The corner didn’t amount to anything, but Koita then latched onto a searching ball after beating Carr in a foot race. A vital block as he entered the Hanwell area, keeping the Yellows at bay. That start to the second half had promised so much and it seemed that the momentum was with us. However, as has often happened this season our failure to capitalise when in the ascendancy is quickly punished.     A long free kick from just over the halfway line from Seabrook in the 53 rd minute, was met by the faintest of glancing headers from Callum Woodcock and the ball continued beyond Baker and into the Tiverton net. Question marks about the ease in which we appear to concede goals, once again was evident. The lively Jordy Mongoy then saw two attempts impressively saved by Baker, as Hanwell looked to turn the screw. Tivvy’s keeper with rapid reflexes when foiling him from close in and then tipping over for a corner. A penalty appeal from our hosts was then turned down by the referee just before the hour mark.    Tiverton never really got a foothold in the game after that. Gabe Billington had a half chance after winning a tussle with Carr outside the Geordies box in the 63 rd minute but lifted his shot over the bar. Wilson then forced the busy Baker into action, as his piledriver stung the Argyle loanee’s palms. Baker’s next job was to deal with Woodcock being in on goal. One-on-ones have always been a strong part of his game, and a superb reaction stop in the 73 rd minute, kept Tiverton’s hopes alive. Around ten minutes later, a speedy break from the Yellows, ended with shouts for a penalty, but they weren’t convincing enough for the referee.    Hanwell then went up the other end and Pendlebury was then thwarted by Baker from point blank range. Any thoughts however of an equaliser were dispelled when with almost 90 minutes’ up, Duncan forced the ball home from close in, following a corner. Wilson’s volley was close to giving the hosts a third, deep into the time the officials decided to add on and substitute Finn Rooke’s header from Hall’s floated free kick nearly brought a consolation, but 2-0 was the final score.    The Yellows have been going to the well for a long time now and haven’t been able to put out the fires that have been engulfing their season. Maybe a break in fixtures will enable them to take stock and plot a way forward. They next take to the field on November 22 nd , when they travel to Gosport.    Tiverton: Zak Baker, Brooklyn Wilkins, Corey Koerner, Harry Hutchinson, Matt Wood, Toby Down, Tor Swann (90), Asa Hall, Daniel Koita (68), Gabe Billington, Aiden Horne (74). Substitutes: Jacob Wellington (68), Zack Williams (90), Sergui Lungu, Finley Rooke (74).