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The final game of the season was between two local teams who battled hard and put on an entertaining display for all the supporters. Tivvy edged it in the first half but were unable to capitalise on possession. Culm Sampford then took the lead at the beginning of the second half following an excellent finish into the corner of the goal. In response Tivvy had a well worked move down the right wing leading to a goal being disallowed for ball out of play. However, Tivvy kept their composure and Dawson Payne soon struck to give hope of snatching a late win. Despite increased attacking pressure Tivvy couldn't manage a 2nd goal, and a great last minute save from Jaq Sussex kept the scores level. Lots of great performances but the POTM vote was shared this week between the keeper Jaq Sussex and midfielder Will Findlay. A big thank you to all who supported the U18's this season. We hope you enjoyed seeing what entertaining football looks like 🖤💛🖤💛 Following the game our end of season awards were announced. Very difficult to highlight specific players from the season but the voting recognised Cody Stansfield, Zak Moran , Kamil Wojtowicz and Max Metherell. A strong team performance with 15 wins , 5 Draws and 4 losses. 86 goals scored , 37 against across all fixtures. A young side with great potential, playing a positive brand of football. Once again thank you to everyone for your commitment to making this team possible and providing some great memories during 24/25 season.

Gloucester City 3   Jemmett-Hutson 7  Williams 55  Smalley 59  Tiverton Town 1   Parker 23    Attendance: 1803  Friday 28th March   The Tiger Turf Stadium    In the context of what was needed from this game, we didn't achieve the goal of taking something from it. Fourth placed Gloucester City have been in indifferent form of late and many a Tivvy fan like me, wondered if we could turn the table upside down and continue our four-game unbeaten run.    For Asa Hall and Steve Orchard's side to visibly look deeply disappointed at the final whistle, it says so much about their renewed spirit and belief and even more so about their performance.     The players can count themselves very unfortunate, to leave The Tiger Turf Stadium without anything to show for their efforts.  There have been quite a few occasions this term, when the team have simply not played at the standard required for this division. This, however, was not one of them !    A bumper crowd of a little over 1800 witnessed an entertaining game of good quality, that was an excellent advert for the Southern League Premier South.    The management team fielded an unchanged eleven, following on from the heartening home victory against Swindon Supermarine, last Saturday. Joe Parker was up against his former club and Jamil Roberts was back amongst the substitutes.    It was the Tigers who made the brighter start and after reassuring handling from Duncan when dealing with a speculative shot through a crowd of players and ex Tivvy loanee Dan Ball’s free header from a corner that was placed wide, they took the lead.     Recent acquisition from Frome, Curtis Jemmet-Hutson getting on the score sheet in the seventh minute, heading into the corner via a post and Duncan’s outstretched arm.    This sprung The Yellows into action, who of course had conceded for the first time since the managerial change, five games ago.     The probing, lung busting runs of Dylan Jones and some excellent forward play from the front two of Joe Parker and Dan Koita meaning we were playing with some serious intent.    In the ninth Minute Koita accelerated past his marker, but pulled his shot, just wide and then Jones minutes later tricked his way down the Tigers left and the ball in, found the hungry Parker. His thumping volley rattling the underside of the crossbar.    Every time we progressed up the pitch, questions were being asked of the Gloucester defence. Lively and clever movement from Parker and Koita, signalling a threat that has been missing for long periods during the season.    Charlie Cummings who has been a revelation in recent weeks at centre back, once again displayed excellent defensive timing with a collection of superb tackles and interceptions throughout the evening.     He was on hand to make a decisive one, with a Gloucester forward in on goal, with his crucial intervention in the 14th minute.    Both sides were providing thrilling entertainment for the supporters, and this was heightened further by the fired-up Joe Parker. Tiverton broke and long percentage pass into the channel was collected by the onrushing Parker.     Cutting inside from the corner flag, on the angle, he unleashed a hammer of a shot from about 20/25 yards out into the opposing high stantion of the goal, with Tigers keeper Luke Bell clutching air.  A superb individual moment of brilliance from him.    The goal came in the 23rd minute and minutes later the dangerous Koita turned the Tiger’s backline around with a combination of pace, power and good feet. His run down the flank, stretching the Gloucester half. His cross from the byline though, couldn’t evade Bell.    Just beyond the half hour mark, Koita was at it again, with Three or Four players left trailing in his wake, his driven effort produced an excellent stop from Coventry loanee Bell. Jones also drove forward as Tiverton looked strong in the final Third.    With the game opening up, although our hosts were good in possession and always threatening, the focus and defensive backbone of Jeff Forkuo, Cummings, Toby Down and Sam Gleeson was impressive, as both sides served up an impressive spectacle for the fans.    Level at the break and on chances perhaps we could have been in the box seat. I thought we shaded a thoroughly exhilarating opening half.    When the sides began the second period, The Yellows had the first opportunity to go ahead. A 49th minute free kick inadvertently reached Niall Thompson just outside the six-yard box, with Bell and a defender for company.     With his back to goal, he lost his footing and was unable to get a good connection on his swivelled shot and it rebounded tamely against the Tiger keeper’s post. In the scheme of things, this was a massive chance.    A slick passage of play from our hosts saw some flowing quick moving football, stretch our midfield and defensive unit. Attempts from Jemmet-Hutson and former Weston Super Mare and Hungerford wide man Elis Watts were fired wide but signalled a difficult period for Tivvy.    Down the other end, player-manager Hall tried his luck from range, but his shot was claimed by Bell. Though the pressure told and despite Duncan parrying an initial effort from the Tigers’, Ed Williams was there on the follow up as Gloucester regained the lead.    Just before we arrived at the hour mark, Substitute Brandon Smalley who had only moments earlier entered the pitch, extended the host’s lead. Turning home to make it 3-1. Collectively we had momentarily lost our focus.    Tiverton however didn’t lie down. Thompson’s threatening corner in, forced Gloucesters keeper into a decent save and Steve Orchard replaced Gleeson with creative midfielder Gabe Billington.     Although the outstanding Cummings made another fantastic sliding block-tackle to pretty much keep us in the game, on 70 minutes. Another very strong showing from the emerging Dan Koita, ended when fellow striker Joe Beardwell entered the fray in the 73rd minute.    Asa Hall fired over from a central free kick, almost 25 yards out, as the Yellows’ continued to press and probe for a way back into the game. The Tiger’s though were always a threat when in possession, especially when moving the ball quickly to the wings.    A last-ditch tackle once again prevented the home side from being in on goal. Tivvy exhausted all their attacking options in the 81st minute when Parker who was back to his threatening best, was withdrawn for the Skilful Marcus Day.    Day’s introduction prompted a final push from Asa Hall’s men, and they took the bull by the horns. Jones, Thompson and Day all rampaging forward. Despite being two goals behind, there was no lack of confidence or belief.     Tivvy continued to apply pressure and only a series of blocks and desperate tackles held them at bay. It finished 3-1 and remember this was against a strong play-off side, on their home 3G pitch, with an extremely large backing.      It was encouraging to see about 35 Tiverton fans cheering their side on and the fans support will be all important as we enter the final month of the season, looking to escape relegation. Five games to go; beginning with Bracknell at home on Saturday.    There were huge positives to take in defeat and the supporters can be proud of this group of players. Other significant results this weekend were as follows;    Chertsey 3 Bracknell 1  Frome 0 Hungerford 1  Parkway 3 Poole 1  Supermarine 1 Taunton 2  Walton & H 1 Basingstoke 1  Winchester 0 Merthyr 3    Ourselves, Poole and Frome remain in the bottom four, on 37 points. Our inferior goal difference meaning we remain below both. Winchester are just above the Drop Zone on 39 points, with Supermarine, Chertsey and Basingstoke all on 41 points.    Tiverton:   Duncan, Forkuo, Cummings, Down, Gleeson, Thompson, Britton, Hall, D. Jones, Koita, Parker.  Subs: J. Jones, Billington, Day, Beardwell, Roberts.

Gloucester City v Tiverton Town  Friday 28th March  7.45pm Kick Off  The Tiger Turf Stadium    A Friday night game is a bit of a rarity, and it has been a quarter of a century since Gloucester City, our opponents have hosted one. Despite our recent upturn in form, I think as fans we know better than to make assumptions that we have found the recipe that will see us to safety. Football is ever changing and there is a lot of information available, and observations made by opposition coaching staff that can soon alter what appears to be a winning formula.    Aside from the unavailable Jamil Roberts, on Saturday Asa Hall and Steve Orchard had a full-strength squad to choose from. The returning Joe Beardwell and Gabe Billington should be further on in their fitness and Josh Jones will be assessed after aggravating an injury in the warmup.    The emergence of Dan Koita has definitely given our management team food for thought and in a strong team performance, there was also starring roles for Charlie Cummings, Jeff Forkuo and Toby Down. A moment of quality from the manager making the difference.    The Tigers who are close to achieving a play-off place will be determined to finish as high as possible to get a more favourable semi-final draw. So , there will be no complacency and even more focus from them, following a setback on the road last Saturday, when they lost 4-0 to play off hopefuls Havant & Waterlooville. Tiverton will definitely need to be at the top of their game against Gloucester.    The Tigers’ blueprint at the start of the campaign will have been for an immediate return to The National League South. Managing affairs is Mike Cook. Cook, a Gloucester native had a premature end to a professional playing career, through injury at the age of 22.    The former Coventry, Cambridge and York pro though, did enjoy a decent non-league career with Wycombe Wanderers, Corby Town and Gloucester. He has since acquired an impressive managerial CV. Chippenham Town and Swindon Town Women were other appointments.    His side includes prolific attacking midfielder Joe Hanks. With almost a goal every other game in The Southern League this season, his threat is an obvious one.     Known for the odd wonder strike, the 30-year-old ex EFL player who was formerly of Cheltenham Town has good pedigree. He also appeared for Chippenham a step higher and has made over 150 appearances for The Tigers.    Striker Kieran Phillips may not have many goals to show for his effort’s during this campaign, but he has chipped in with a fair few assists and the former Bristol Rovers man did enjoy a fruitful spell with Swindon Supermarine at this level, a few seasons’ back.     Dayle Grubb made non-league headlines when he signed a five-year contract with Weston Super Mare, following his departure from Forest Green and the Winger was instrumental in their promotion to National South. He’s 33 now, but still a top-quality operator.    Irishman Kevin Dawson, a former teammate of Asa Hall at Torquay, brings plenty of EFL experience to Gloucester’s midfield. The 34-year-old played in every division but the Premier League for Yeovil, making over 200 appearances in the Football League for The Glovers, Cheltenham and Forest Green.    Fellow midfielder Brandon Smalley who spent time as a youngster with Leeds United and Rochdale, like the aforementioned Joe Hanks has over double figures on the goal front.    Ben Richards- Everton is a 33-year-old Central Defender who played North of the border in The Scottish Premiership for Partick Thistle and for Dunfermline Athletic and Airdrieonians in Scotland.  Returning to England and making over 80 EFL appearances for Accrington Stanley and Bradford City.    Richards-Everton's football journey has since seen him move on to the non-league destinations of Barnet, Yeovil and Scunthorpe. The much sought after, 6ft 5-inch Defender signed for The Tigers in 2024.    Ex Everton trainee Tyrone Duffus, who has previous experience in this standard of football with Swindon Supermarine is another impressive central defender who additionally was contracted to Cardiff City. Spending time on loan at Hereford and Barnet.    Former Chippenham/ Weymouth keeper Jared Thompson and Coventry City loanee Luke Bell are vying for the goalkeeping position at Gloucester. Defender Dan Ball played a handful of games for us on loan in the 2018/19 season and has a wealth of experience with both Bath City and Taunton higher up the footballing pyramid.    Joe Parker was a popular player in his considerable time with the Tigers and was deployed in the tier above, as both a striker and a winger.    It will be a test for Tivvy under the Friday Night lights. However, if they can come through this, it should instil plenty of belief in Asa Hall and Steve Orchard’s player’s going forward.

Tiverton Town U18’s travelled to take on Bovey Tracey in the semi-finals of the Devon County Cup. Creative play and gritty determination from the central midfield pairing of Charlie Syvret and Zak Moran combined with the attacking presence of Cody Stansfield and Ollie Rowland saw the Tiverton U18’s dominant the first half. The introduction of Dawson Payne upfront later in the first half had an immediate impact with Dawson scoring the first goal through a close range finish. Tiverton were then unlucky not to go two nil up after more good play from Dawson. A strong performance from the centre back pairing of Sunny Webber and Kamil Wojtowicz nullified most efforts from Bovey Tracey with Tyler Kelly and Max Metherell (Captain) working tirelessly in the wingback positions. However, a late first half goal by this strong Bovey Tracey side saw the two teams go in level at halftime. Bovey Tracey struck early in the second half and then quickly pressed home this advantage to score a further two goals. Dan Wilson, arriving at halftime from another semifinal match, provided fresh legs in defence and despite the deficit, Tiverton rallied and again started to dominate the match. Jack Trevelyan and Harrison Jordan were a constant threat on the wings and a combination of excellent passes saw Cody set up Dawson for a second close range finish igniting this cup tie. In goal, Jaq Sussex made several fine close range stops to deny Bovey Tracey a further goal as Tiverton pushed men forward to try and narrow the deficit. The defence continued to deal with the Bovey Tracey attacking threat with an outstanding high-energy performance by Max at left wing back that earned him Player of the Match. Tyler was an ever present threat now playing in a more advanced role with Tiverton creating several close chances with only the crossbar denying a further goal. However, despite an exceptional performance by this much depleted Tiverton U18’s side it was not to be their day with Bovey Tracey eventually winning this classic cup match 4-2 at Full Time. Next Sunday therefore sees the final league game of the season for the Tiverton Town U18’s when we welcome Culm Sampford to the Slee Blackwell Stadium in a 2pm kick off.

Are you looking to play on the hallowed turf at the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium ? The pitch at Tiverton Town FC is available for private hire in the off-season, from Sunday 27th April until Monday 26th May, for just £75 per hour. To register your interest, simply drop us an email to contact@tivertontownfc.co.uk #Tivvy 💛

Tiverton Town 1   Hall 84  Swindon Supermarine 0     Attendance: 368  Saturday 22nd March 2025 The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium    The diagnosis for the Yellows was looking short on hope, four games ago, following the 5-0 home humbling by Basingstoke. However, under the guidance of Asa Hall and Steve Orchard, there appears to have been the instalment of a siege mentality, and we now have a fighting chance.    Yesterday's hard fought, but truly deserved win against Swindon Supermarine means that although other results weren't favourable to us on Saturday, we are now one of four teams on 37 points with Winchester 2 points further on and Marlow adrift.    Full backs Jeff Forkuo and Sam Gleeson returned to the matchday eleven, and Joe Beardwell boosted striking options by being named on the bench.     Gabe Billington who is stepping up his fitness was also amongst the subs. Jamil Roberts was unavailable. Josh Jones aggravated a slight injury he has been managing, in the warmup.    A dry surface made it difficult for the players to play free-flowing football and although there was a lot of endeavour and very good performances within the team, neither goalkeeper had a save of note to make during the ninety minutes, Asa Hall’s goal aside.    The opening twenty minutes belonged to Tiverton with both Niall Thompson and Dylan Jones having some joy down the wings and the bright Dan Koita winning his aerial duels and forcing a couple of last-ditch tackles, when homing in on goal.    The visitor’s Michael Fernandes was an obvious threat, when Marine came more into the game, but the impressive Jeff Forkuo often stopped Fernandes in his tracks and kept the scorer of a first half hattrick in the reverse fixture at bay.    Forkuo’s outstanding display was matched by the blossoming Charlie Cummins who was a classy act on the day. His reading of the game, interceptions, distribution and use of his physical attributes were all on show.    When the creative Nick Peare for the visitors, slid attempted passes through to the Marine forwards, the door was closed quickly, by a Tivvy defensive unit which was expertly marshalled by Toby Down and completed by the promising Sam Gleeson.    Although it was the Yellows who were having the better of it. Though neat approach play was often undermined by passes that went astray or dealt with by the Swindon backline.    A goalless opening period and apart from routine handling, little to cause either Joe Duncan or Fiachra Pagel who had a loan spell with us from Forest Green earlier in the season, any cause for alarm.    On resumption Tiverton stepped up their attacking intent and signalled that, through Thompson and Jones committing defenders on several occasions.     Koita‘s strong showing continued and he was a real handful for the Marine defence, Joe Parker often finding himself outnumbered, but putting a good shift in, despite his heavy attention.     Cummins continued his dominant display and almost got his reward in the shape of a goal in the 68th minute. The Yellows corner count was building, and the Irishman stole in at the back post, but could only flash his shot into the side netting.    In the 70th minute, Marine who had posed less danger in the second half were awarded a Free kick, just outside of Tivvy’s box. Though in keeping with the order of the afternoon, our defensive wall came out on top.    Steve Orchard made a like for like replacement in the 74th minute, as Koita was replaced by Joe Beardwell. The only thing missing from Koita’s afternoon was a goal. He made a favourable impression and Beardwell kept up the intensity on the Marine Defence.    Marcus Day entered Proceedings, as Sam Gleeson was withdrawn. Another attack minded player on the pitch, with Hall & Orchard determined to conjure a vital victory from this game.    Asa Hall though who has proved an inspirational figure, especially in his managerial stints so far, did this singlehandedly. After Jones had been tripped, moving inside on the visitor’s left, Hall stood over the resulting free kick.    It looked for all intents and purposes that Hall was going to deliver a cross into the box. However, at the last minute he fashioned a shot towards Pagel’s near post and that last second decision caught him out and he was unable to keep the manager’s shot from going in, despite getting a hand on the ball.    Hall had worked tirelessly in Tivvys midfield and had released Jones with a fine outside of the boot pass minutes earlier. This clever individual moment, epitomising his efforts, on and off the pitch.    Plenty of encouragement to take from the lad’s spirit alone on Saturday. But when the final whistle blew, it also heralded a Four game unbeaten run and a fourth clean sheet.    As Asa Hall adhered to in his after-match interview, Gloucester are next on the horizon and the play offside are notoriously strong on their home patch. However, they were well beaten 4-0 at Havant & Waterlooville on Saturday and if we can continue this momentum, there is no reason why we can’t be competitive on Friday evening.    Lastly, a word for our supporters behind the goal in particular and in general, who gave massive encouragement on Saturday. We’re all in this together.    Tiverton: Joe Duncan, Dylan Jones, Toby Down, Matt Britton, Joe Parker, Asa Hall, Niall Thompson, Jeff Forkuo, Charlie Cummins, Dan Koita, Sam Gleeson.    Substitutes: Josh Jones, Joe Beardwell, Marcus Day, Gabe Billington, Will Howard (GK).

First team manager Asa Hall has had his say ahead of tomorrows Southern League clash with Swindon Supermarine at the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium. I would like to begin by saying that, first and foremost, I appreciate the opportunity of being entrusted with your football club, and I am enjoying the challenge very much. Three clean sheets in a week and a five-point return since I took over is exactly what we could have hoped for and I have been really pleased with the performances and the attitude of the players, and their reaction to everything that has happened in such a short space of time. It is really positive and we are hoping to keep that going. The squad is totally different from my previous spell in charge five or six months ago, and there has been a lot of things to think about and to deal with, but all I can ask from the players is to is to buy into what we are trying to do. We have had a change of shape and personnel, but the attitude towards everything has been spot on. We have tried to give them some details and some small tweaks that can help us go and score goals and win games. Everyone wants clean sheets, but I would rather play an attacking style of football where the ball is away from our goal and in the opposition’s half and limit opposition chances that way, rather than maybe trying to sit in and protect a 0-0. I think the positive play that we have been trying to get across has, in turn, helped deliver our clean sheets. I realise that the job on hand, with the games we have got to go, means we need to go and score goals and win games and we are never going to do that by sitting off and sitting deep. So we have got to be brave, step into the game, and take the game to teams with a bit of a high press and lots of work-rate. My main focus - our main focus - is to is to put points on the board in the next six weeks and hopefully, get the club safe. We know it is going to be a tough ask but we are going to give it everything we can and hopefully we get the job done. I have got a points target in my head that I think we might need but, as I said to the players in training on Tuesday night, each game now is massive. When we win that game, the next game becomes even bigger. I think that is what we have got to aim for - we have got to keep making sure that the next game is bigger than the last. If we are doing that, then we are giving ourselves a very good chance to get safe. We welcome Stuart Fleetwood and the Swindon Supermarine staff, players and supporters to our stadium. They are a good footballing team and we have got to respect them. We have got a big job on our hands and, although I am looking at Swindon and how they play, the focus is definitely going to be on us, and our formation and our tactics. It is obviously nice to have another set of eyes with Steve Orchard and his experience. We both can see the same pictures and are on the same wavelength, and it is good to work with him. Last, but definitely not least, I would like to say to our supporters that they are definitely going to be a huge part of everything we are doing. If we can put some numbers through the gate and get some noise going at the stadium, it is only going to help the boys and hopefully, in return, we can put on a show, score some goals, and get some results. Asa

Tiverton Town v Swindon Supermarine    The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium  Saturday 22nd March, Kick Off  3pm   When Joe Parker finished into the corner of the net last Saturday, to get that all important second goal at Winchester in the 82nd minute, it breathed life back into the Yellows season.     A stuttering campaign which has tested the nerves of their supporters, now requires another win at the weekend to maintain a survival push. Standing in our way are a Swindon Supermarine side that will also be intent on securing safety with victory on Saturday.    There was praise from his manager for local based striker Dan Koita at Winchester, as he made his first start and Asa Hall was extremely happy with his troops then and will be hoping for a similarly, determined display at the Slee Blackwell Stadium.     This is the first of four remaining home games and with all the away games looking particularly tough on paper, points will be at a premium on home soil. Although with Saturday’s result, the Yellows have now won four games apiece on their travels and in their familiar surroundings.     The returning Matt Britton, Jeff Forkuo and Gabe Billington’s involvements were all plusses for Asa Hall and Steve Orchard, though physio Richard Sleep will be checking in on the fitness of striker Joe Beardwell, before the management duo are able to compile their matchday squad.    Ex EFL striker Stuart Fleetwood is Marine’s current manager and Fleetwood formerly of; Cardiff, Brighton & Hove Albion, Luton, Exeter and Hereford was appointed manager of the club in September 2023, after they had begun the 2023/24 season disappointingly.    His team did elevate themselves to higher mid table, earlier in the season and when the two sides met back in September, it was a convincing 4-0 win at The Webbswood for the Wiltshire side. At the time of writing, they occupy 14th place.    In the 22/23 campaign current Supermarine attacking player Harry Williams, scored 34 goals in 34 games for the club in this division. Although he hasn’t come close to repeating those goalscoring feats in recent seasons, he does have 15 goals to his name so far this term.     Williams had a brief professional career with Cheltenham and other clubs he has featured for, include; Gloucester, Farnborough and Salisbury. His threat cannot be ignored.    Our tormentor in the reverse fixture was Michael Fernandes. A first half hattrick from the talented attacking player, putting the Yellows to the sword. The wide man has registered 13 goals in the league this season, although his participation in this game is not clear cut, as he has been missing through injury in the last few matches.    Fernandes was professionally contracted to Colchester United earlier in his football journey and has also spent a considerable time with Farnborough. Other ports of call have included; Salisbury, Farnborough and Hayes & Yeading.    Midfielder Anton Dworzak is on loan from Swindon Town and the young starlet has made a very good impression since arriving at the Webbswood.    Left sided player and Captain Ryan Campbell Has been with the club for Nine seasons, making well over 250 appearances. A very good technical player, Campbell is one of several long serving players in their ranks. In his formative years Campbell played for Chippenham.    Defender Sam Turl has been an ever present over the last Three campaigns and will have played over 140 games in all competitions, by the time this season concludes. The strong and dependable Turl is very popular with fans and managers alike. With good technical ability often seeing him bombing forward.    Fiachra Pagel who put in some good performances earlier in the season for us, on loan from Forest Green is currently between the sticks for Marine and Olly Mehew the gifted forward, was with the Yellows’ briefly in 22/23 and his nomadic footballing career, saw him move from Merthyr to Swindon.    We welcome them both back on Saturday and in roles reversed Matt Britton will be facing his old side, having played for them in the 21/22 season.    Asa Hall and Steve Orchard will face many challenges in the run in. However, it’s important to remember that they both stood up to be counted after Rob Dray’s departure and have noticeably worked hard to try and salvage our Southern League Premier status and along with the players’ will continue to do so.    So, let’s get behind our team and give them all the encouragement they need on Saturday.

Brilliant news ! Work has begun at the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium today in preparation for the installation of our brand new 3G pitch next year. The photographs are the start of the drainage works that are a crucial part of the entire project as the pitch is on a floodplain. Vice chairman Matt Conridge has said "There is still a lot of hard work to be done between now and our target of May next year, but we are all delighted that some real, physical progress is finally being made". Onwards and upwards 💛

Winchester City 0   Tiverton Town 2   OG 62, Parker 86    Saturday 15th March 2025  The Charters Community Stadium    Attendance: 362    Asa Hall & Steve Orchard's men went into this match with only a win being viewed as good enough to keep us in touching distance of our relegation rivals. One of them rivals was the team they faced on Saturday and for once they read the script, accepted their roles and acted them out successfully.    In Winchester’s case a win or draw would have been acceptable. However, Tiverton knew that a win on the road in Wiltshire would close the gap to two points on their hosts and in doing so boost their chances of survival.    Matt Britton returned to wear the Captain’s Armband, Jeff Forkuo also started after missing the Frome game due to a family emergency and Dan Koita made his first start since joining the club. Charlie Cummings, Marcus Day, Gabe Billington and Sam Gleeson were the substitutes.    When we got underway the intent of both sides was clear to see, in getting an early goal. Josh McCormick warming Joe Duncan’s gloves after being found by the lively Trevor Caborn in the fifth minute and Dan Koita for Tivvy, in on goal a minute later, but an offside flag stopping him in his tracks.    A burst of pace from Niall Thompson resulted in a corner and from Jamil Robert’s delivery in, player-manager Asa Hall wasn’t far away from heading us in front, with 9 minutes played.     A Winchester player received treatment at that point, allowing both teams to draw breath after a busy opening to the game. Shortly after we resumed, the referee waved away claims for a penalty. Deciding that Caborn was fairly shackled by a couple of Yellows defenders, as he fell into the box.    A free kick was then awarded to the Citizens, deep into Tiverton territory. Top scorer for the home side Ik Hill stood over it, but the wall did its job, and his effort was blocked away for a corner which The Yellows dealt with.    Dan Koita and Joe Parker though were putting in a real shift defensively and were proving good outlets when we did go forward and in the 19th minute Koita made good contact with his volley, but it went marginally over.    Another corner presented a chance for defender Rob Jamison, although he lifted his header over the woodwork. That 22nd minute effort was followed by further opportunities for our hosts.    Caborn forced his way through Tivvy’s backline, but Joe Duncan was equal to his driven shot, with another excellent one-on-one save. In the same passage of play, striker Tommy Wright headed inches wide after, as Winchester piled on the pressure. The Yellows though stood firm against the Citizens onslaught.    In 35th minute, former Dorchester player Callum Buckley, swivelled and shot. A good block ensured we stayed on level terms and Toby Down’s defensive work stood out.    Matt Britton then received a yellow and then with half time beckoning Asa Hall had a decent opportunity to get his volley away as Tiverton had their best spell of the half. It was well struck, but unfortunately right down Luke Cairney’s throat.    However, the half belonged to Winchester and the influential Caborn played in Wright shortly before the interval. Although on this occasion, a wayward finish meant that Duncan’s rescue act wasn’t required.    It was a goalless first half, but it wasn’t a game short on entertainment and the visitors remained in the hunt for a vital three points, despite having to concede that the Citizens were the better side going into the break.    Charlie Cummings replaced Josh Jones for the second half and when we did get back underway, although Buckley looped a header narrowly over in the 52nd minute, the Yellows were coming a lot more into the game.    Just beyond the hour mark Tivvy received a huge helping hand from their opponents. Good pressure from Tiverton brought about a mistake from a Winchester defender, whose misjudgement saw his header go past Cairney, in the home sides goal.    It had been 509 minutes since Tiverton had last found the net through Niall Thompson’s 3rd minute winner against Poole on February 15th, a whole month ago.    We looked a different side after going ahead and were spraying the ball around nicely, utilising the wide threat of Thompson and Jones on both flanks and Cummings looking assured in possession. Playing with restored confidence and conviction Tivvy were starting to threaten.     There was a chance for The Citizens to even things up in the 77th minute, but the attempted shot was blazed over, from a good position to find the target.    A delightful pass from Hall, with the outside of his boot found Parker, but his 82nd minute effort was hit centrally and held by Cairney.  However shortly afterwards Parker did beat Winchester’s keeper to end his own personal goal drought.    His accomplished finish when one-on-one with the ex-Poole keeper, low into the right corner of the net giving The Yellows’ a two-goal cushion in the 86th minute.    Tiverton played with a lot of freedom in the closing stages and there were further opportunities to extend our lead. A half turn volley from Parker cannoned off the crossbar and in added time Gabe Billington on for Niall Thompson couldn’t quite finish, following some bright forward play from Koita.    An extremely valuable win for Asa Hall and Steve Orchard’s team.  The Yellows did what they had to do and if they can do that regularly over the Seven remaining games, then retaining their Southern League Premier South status will be a distinct possibility.    However, too many times during this campaign, a disappointment has followed a success. Backing up this essential win is imperative when we play host to Swindon Supermarine, this coming Saturday at The Slee Blackwell Stadium.    Supermarine are not over the line themselves yet and will view this fixture, as a chance to virtually secure safety. Let’s show our support for the lads at the weekend and take heart from a very good win on Saturday.    Tiverton: Joe Duncan, Niall Thompson, Dylan Jones, Toby Down, Josh Jones, Jamil Roberts, Matt Britton, Asa Hall, Jeff Forkuo, Joe Parker, Dan Koita.    Substitutes: Marcus Day, Charlie Cummins, Gabe Billington, Sam Gleeson.

The Installation of a 3G surface This is the ‘big project’ which we believe will transform the club and provide it with a strong foundation for the future. Two of the biggest challenges with this project have been the planning and a new lease for the ground. The Committee have been working with our planning partners XL Planning and Glenn Crocker to complete this task and it’s safe to say it’s been a significant challenge. With the ground being on a floodplain a number of additional works has had to be undertaken to get us to a point where planning is ready to be applied for. “XL Planning Ltd are extremely privileged to be involved with the exciting project of the construction of a new 3G pitch and changing facilities at Tiverton Town Football Club. As a local company, we are very proud to have been invited to be a small part of the club’s journey and look forward to working with everyone to achieve the deliverance of the development". "Progress to date has been fast with the undertaking all of the survey works (including sketch design and drone work) required for the subsequent planning application, so that we can provide 21st century facilities for one of Devons` premier non-league football clubs. This work is continuing to gather pace, and fundamentally the development will enable the club to reach further into its local community and secure its own future through youth player development of all abilities.“ The lease on the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium has just over nine years left to run. For us to be able to secure grant money towards the pitch and other infrastructure investments we need at least ten years, so over the last 18 months the club have been working to extend this. This has been a very tough objective to achieve due to the nature of the trust which owns the land, but with the help of John Smith we have agreed a new 30 year lease which will secure the future of the club for generations to come. This will be signed in April of this year. We are nearly there, but unfortunately we will not have this done in time for the installation of the pitch this summer. We continue to work towards the 3G pitch now with a target date of May 2026. It can’t be understated the number of hours over the last 10 or so months that has gone into this, and the Committee are completely dedicated to achieving success. Changing Rooms For over twenty years the club have had plans to build new changing rooms at the back of the main stand and we now intend to complete these this summer. Plans have been submitted and planning is being resubmitted imminently. These new facilities will provide high quality changing rooms to our first teams and Under 18s sides and allow us to improve our current ones for use by younger age groups. LED Floodlights A grant has been secured to fund the installation of LED floodlights at the club this year. This will dramatically reduce the cost of running the floodlights, especially after the installation of the 3G pitch. Partnership with Twyford Spartans A key cornerstone to becoming a community based football club is a strong youth section and a clear pathway for children to progress into adults football, whether it be Mens, Ladies or Disability. We all know the limitations we currently face with the pitch, but when we have installed the 3G pitch we will be able to cater for many more people. As we work towards that, we’ve had multiple discussions with Twyford Spartans and hope to have a positive agreement to announce in the near future. The Committee are completely focused on turning Tiverton Town Football Club into a Community focused club, one which is here for the majority rather than the minority at the same time as supporting our Men’s first team to play at the highest possible level within the football pyramid. We are always looking for people to come on board and support our plans, whether it’s as a Committee Member, Volunteer, Sponsor or Partner. Be part of the future, step forward and help us. Onwards and Upwards 💛

Winchester City  v  Tiverton Town  Saturday March 15th 3pm   The Charters Community Stadium    Having played two relegation rivals in two of their previous three fixtures, Tiverton now come face-to-face with a Winchester side hovering above the bottom four in 18th place.     A win for The Citizens will ease their relegation worries and a win for The Yellow's will see them close the gap on the Wiltshire side and may even mean that they  move up a place.    New management team, Asa Hall and Steve Orchard's side have slipped to 21st position in the table, although they’ve yet to taste defeat. Frome winning one of the two games they had in hand over us, by beating Hanwell on Tuesday night.     Another team battling the drop Poole, defeated Winchester to move to within Two points of Saturday’s opponents. With highflyers Totton and Gloucester still to play, realistically we must target winnable fixtures, however tricky or challenging they are, at this stage of the season.    Scoring goals has been more of a dilemma for Tivvy than conceding them over the last few months. Since the turn of the Year, 16 goals in 12 games is our defensive record, but attacking wise in the same number of games we have only found the net 5 times.    That problem will need to be rectified in the run in. Encouragingly Saturday’s point at home last weekend, saw midfielders; Captain Matt Britton and Gabe Billington, return to the fold. Jeff Forkuo was unavailable for family reasons and Asa Hall will be hoping to be able to pick from as full a squad as possible.    Winchester Manager Craig Davis took over The Citizens, almost Eight years ago and it has been one of the most successful periods in the club’s history with him in the hotseat. This is the home side’s third consecutive campaign at this level. Their ambition has seen them change to a 3G pitch, this term.    Home grown talent Ik Hill has been Winchester’s main source of goals. Seventeen goals represent a very good return for Hill and the popular 24-year-old goal getter has played for The Citizens in seven of his eight years in senior football. The exception being a season away at Westfield, in 20/21.    He is assisted in the goal scoring department by the vastly experienced Tommy Wright. His non-league pedigree has seen him play well over 100 games at Sutton United and spend three seasons with Havant and Waterlooville. A loan spell at Salisbury, to the tune of 39 goals in 2016/17 and another at Totton complete an impressive CV.    Combative and inspirational midfielder Jamie Barron is the captain, and he has been a big player for both the club and the manager during his tenure. Apart from one season at Gosport, he is very much a Citizens stalwart.  His first campaign for the Wiltshire side was in 2014/15.    Quick footed, pacy and exciting winger Trevor Caborn often dazzled last season and has once again been a mainstay in The Winchester team.    Seasoned, central defender Callum Buckley was professionally contracted to Bournemouth between 2014 & 2017, spent Two seasons at Weymouth following his release and has also represented; Hayes & Yeading and was at Dorchester for a few seasons, before signing for the club.    Goalkeeper Luke Cairney has consistently been one of this division’s best for a decent amount of time. A strong performer with all round assets, he earned this reputation at Poole.     His displays with the Dolphins, caught Hungerford’s attention when they were a National League South side, and he continued to shine there. Returning to Poole, before moving to the Citizens, a little way into last season.     Once again, The Yellows will be thrust into a pressure cooker atmosphere, and both sets of players will be looking for a precious 3 points on Saturday. The reverse fixture back in September, saw Tiverton run out 2-1 winners. The scorers on that day were, Joe Parker with the opener and Dylan Jones winning the game in added time.