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Match Preview Tiverton Town v Basingstoke Town Tuesday January 20th 7.45pm Kick Off At The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium A young Tiverton Town fan proudly waves a flag in support. A mini revival over the Christmas period, with two consecutive wins against local rival's fuelled hope, that has since been cancelled out by Two losses. The second of those on Saturday was a painful one against Hanwell at The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium, coupled with wins for other relegation rivals, the Yellows are now Eleven points from safety, going into Tuesday’s quick return to home soil. The previous Two Season’s has seen us come up with sensational escapes, but at the moment we are out of contention to repeat that and in a perilous predicament. Make no mistake though Asa Hall’s men will be looking to atone for the overall display on Saturday. Will Asa and his coaching team go with the same starting line up or will there be changes of personnel/formation? Tuesday evening’s opponents Basingstoke sit in mid table and were on a Five game unbeaten run, prior to losing away to Berkhamsted at the weekend. They haven’t been totally convincing on their travels though as that result and just Three away victories indicate. Dan Brownlie is by today’s standards a long serving manager. He took over at Stoke in 2019 after initially being Martin Kuhl’s assistant. In that time he has been instrumental in guiding them back up to this division, where they have stayed since the 2023/24 campaign. Striker George Reid is likely to lead Stoke’s attack. Having only featured in 15 league games this season, his current goal tally is an impressive Seven. Into a Fourth term with the Hampshire based side, Reid spent Five season’s with Didcot, interrupted by a spell with Swindon Supermarine. Fellow forward Robbie Gallagher is another ex Didcot player. A talented, hardworking technician, he joined his current team for the last campaign having been an ever present for Didcot when they were relegated from this league. With vast experience, pedigree and knowhow, wide midfielder James Clark is 29. In the past he was a key player for Hungerford in National League South. The admired Clark had spells with Hayes & Yeading, Wealdstone and Thatcham and Marlow, becoming a mainstay after Stoke returned to this division. Another member of Basingstoke’s midfield is Ben Cook. Popular with the club’s fans, Cook has made in excess of 100 senior appearances for the visitors and also had brief stints at both Bracknell and Thatcham. Industrious, young and gifted midfielder D’Andre Brown has become a regular this term for Dan Brownlie’s side, having been at the club for the bulk of his senior career, after coming through the away side’s academy. Defender Scott Armsworth’s football upbringing began in Fulham’s academy. A brief spell at Slough followed, before joining Basingstoke in the 2019/20 campaign and has remained at Stoke since then. Armsworth is a strong Performer at this level. Keeping a decent amount of players who have served him well, Brownlie also has Billy Upton with him, who is another to have been at Basingstoke since they regained their status in this league. A constant in the team, the defender is an assured presence for Stoke. A familiar name in the visitor’s line up this season is Joe O’loughlin. After relocating, the ex Frome, Tiverton and Yate full back has made himself very much part of the manager’s plans. Now 26, the talented defender is a product of Exeter City’s academy. In possession of the glove’s at the moment is Simon Grant. Prized away from Marlow after Eight season’s by Bracknell, the commanding and agile keeper went on to play for Hungerford, Hayes & Yeading and Bracknell again. He arrived at Basingstoke in the 2023/24 season and has in the last two season’s become number One. There are no easy games in this division, but this promises to be a very competitive affair under the light’s. So let’s get behind the team and support the lads on Tuesday evening.

Match Report Saturday January 17th At The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium Tiverton Town 0 Hanwell Town 2 Pendlebury 21, 60 Att: 250 Tiverton Town fan watch on from behind the goal. There is a lot of factors that have a bearing on the outcome of football matches, but when Tiverton needed to go to the Well today, they weren't able to come back with what was needed. True there was a heavy, difficult playing surface to contend with and questionable refereeing decision's, but the onus was on us to play with intensity in the second half and for one reason or another we were lacklustre and without apparent leader’s on the pitch. Asa Hall and his backroom team of Steve Orchard and David Steele made one change, as Harry Hutchinson returned to his accustomed left back role and Matt Wood came into the line up at centre back, with Corey Koerner dropping to the bench. Tiverton started brightly and had the best of the opening exchanges. A committed Asa Hall receiving a booking for a high challenge with only Three minutes played, as the Yellows’ appeared determined. When Louis Jagger Cane set off in pursuit of a ball over the top that turned Hanwell around, full back Oladunjoye miscontrolled and the ball was presented to the pressing Jagger Cane. He took the ball on and into the area, before unleashing a shot that looped off of the recovering Oladunjoye, but agonisingly the wicked deflection went just high and wide of the upright. It was the Geordies’ though who came back strongly from that early scare, winning a succession of free kicks and corner’s in a dangerous attacking spell. A couple of efforts flash wide and Matt Wonnacott handled well, when an attempt was driven through a sea of players. Tiverton were a threat in the wide area’s early on with both Tor Swann and Dan Koita evading the attention of their marker’s to push us higher up the pitch. In the 14th minute Swann picked up the ball centrally and drove at Hanwell and then executed a fine pass to Koita, whose ball inadvertently found Jacob Wellington. A good block earned the Yellows’ a corner, which didn’t bear fruit. Another corner arrived a few minutes later after Tivvy had initially crowded the box for a long range free kick. The delivery in was inviting, though it was cleared back out wide and was returned back into the mix, where a strong header from Toby Down clipped the bar. It was the visitor’s however who would open the scoring after 21 minutes. Possession was given away cheaply upfield and suddenly we were stretched. The Geordie’s burst forward, quickly switching the ball to our right channel. The visitor’s cut inside and into our area. Joe Waight took the ball into his stride and rifled a shot off the underside of the woodwork and Imposing striker Alfie Pendlebury turned home from close range. A setback for Asa Hall’s men in this crucial encounter. The Yellows’ reacted swiftly to going a goal behind. Some incisive link up play, leading to a strong penalty shout when under pressure from Swann, the ball seemed to be handled by a Hanwell defender. The Referee ignored appeals, then Swann dragged his shot wide as the ball fell to him. Within a minute Koita skilfully glided past his man, but was denied by agile, veteran keeper Sam Beasant who sprung across his goal to push his effort away. Both of these chances occurring. Minutes after Hanwell’s opener It was very open at this stage and the Visitors’ had the next couple of opportunities. Quick interplay from the London side as they flooded forward, ending with an attempt flashing wide and then Wonnacott was down smartly to foil a Hanwell forward, after another fast break. It had been an action packed opening half hour and the only surprise was that there hadn’t been more goals. A bit of a lull in proceeding’s followed, with the game being played out mainly in the middle third. The flow of the game was also interrupted by a string of free kicks for both sides. In this passage of play, passing accuracy dropped too. In the 38th minute Beasant claimed well after a Swann ball in was turned goalwards and Wonnacott was also busy on a few occasions, when the Geordies’ got shot’s away after opening the Yellows’ up. An excellent fingertip save from Beasant then kept the Yellows’ at bay after an onslaught just prior to the break, nearly achieved the equaliser Tiverton deserved. However at the halfway point it was Hanwell who held a slender advantage. A big second half loomed for the team, who knew that as it stood they would be further adrift from safety. Sometimes players thrive under pressure and on other occasions they become passive and subdued. The latter was true of Asa Halls’ men as their intensity dropped and they were never really at it and wasteful with possession. Confidence after a tough season is bound to be a little fragile, but there was a lack of conviction in a lot of things they attempted to do. In the 50th minute a Hanwell move broke down high up the pitch and the ball was threaded forward to Koita whose progress was forcefully halted as he threatened to cut through the vistors’ backline and an obvious free kick was awarded, with the Hanwell player having his name taken. This set the tone for a bad tempered second half that was scruffy for long periods. Ryan Keates a midfielder, replacing defender Brooklyn Wilkins looked a positive move early in the second half and in the 57th minute, a free kick in a dangerous position, about 20 yards out was taken by Koita. Tiverton’s number Nine curled an excellent attempt around the wall, but once again Beasant was his nemesis, as his flying stop expertly denied him. On the hour mark an inviting whipped cross in, over by our left, corner flag caused havoc in our box and after a series of snap shots and blocks in rapid succession, the imposing Alfie Pendlebury tucked away his second and made Tiverton’s task look that much more imposing. A couple of minutes on from that Tivvy were handed a lifeline when Centre Back Harvey Seabrook having already a Yellow to his name, was Red carded when he kicked the ball away to stop Tiverton taking a throw in, with himself out of position. A minute earlier as temper’s flared Steve Orchard was cautioned in the technical area. Two goals down but as it turned out with additional time to add, 35 minutes were left to play. It became a real physical battle and bitty with lot’s of fouls. Yes Hanwell with their greater experience did make it deliberately difficult for us and were helped by a the Referee who was naive on a few occasions in stopping play with the visitor’s players going down and staying down when not injured, but Asa Hall’s side reverted to a slow tempo of play instead of moving the ball round quickly and making their numerical advantage count. In the 69th minute Hanwell fashioned a chance, but Wonnacott watched a powerful effort from just outside the Yellows’ area sail over. Shortly afterwards, a last throw of the dice in an attacking sense saw Harry Hutchinson replaced by Forward Aiden Horne. Booking’s and talking to’s followed and the combative Horne was soon cautioned. It has to be said though that despite having plenty of possession in the remainder of the game, that the grandstand finish that the supporter’s were looking for showed few sign’s of arriving. The Geordies’ holding firm in dealing with a couple of corner’s and a free kick in a threatening area and ex EFL keeper Beasant constantly organising and assured with in the main, routine handling. His voice and one or Two other Hanwell player’s could be heard, but a subdued Yellows’ were quiet and the comeback always looked beyond them. A Third nearly came for the away side, when a speculative lob from distance almost caught out Wonnacott, who had to scramble back and push against the post to avoid further salt being added to the wound. As a fan the second half was tough viewing and as the game finished and supporters’ were leaving the ground, there was refreshing honesty in accepting that we didn’t do enough in that second half and Hanwell just about deserved their victory. It just didn’t happen and our struggles continue. Basingstoke visit the Slee Blackwell Stadium on Tuesday evening and the mid table side come to us, on the back of a defeat at Berkhamsted. Can Tiverton bounce back from this huge disappointment? We need to stay strong as a club and support the lad’s on Tuesday. Tiverton: Wonnacott, Wilkins(51), Wood, Down(c), Hutchinson(70), Hall, Billington, Wellington, Swann, Jagger Cane, Koita Subs: Ross(GK), Horne(70), Keates(51), Koerner

Match Preview  Tiverton Town v Hanwell Town  Saturday January 17 th   3pm Kick Off  At The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium  Tor Swann holds up play against Hanwell in the reverse fixture against this weekend's visitors earlier in the season   If Tiverton are to make their chances of survival less than remote, these are the kind’s of games that we simply have to win.      Hanwell have been on a horrible run of form, since beating us 2-0 on November 8 th and defeating Merthyr away in the FA Trophy. Only recording Three draws in that time and this has plunged them into the relegation picture. Although Saturday’s draw at Poole could indicate a turning of the tide.    The importance of this game cannot be underplayed and Asa Hall’s men can point to better result’s and more rounded performances in recent weeks. Without triumphing here though, no real progress will have been made in closing the gap on their rival’s and a slow ascent up the table is the order of the day.    As an attacking force things are beginning to click and we have presented many threat’s, but defensively as a team there still appears to be work to do. Tiverton will have good memories of their last fixture at the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium, when Dan Koita’s wonder goal gave the Yellows’ a rousing 2-1 success.    They will need a strong showing at home between now and the end of this campaign if they are to maintain their status and without a doubt the supporters have a part to play in that. The Four postponed league games means that there are plenty of point’s up for grabs on home soil.    The London based Geordie’s are managed by ex EFL Striker Chris Moore and Wayne Carter who had a decent playing career in the Non League with the likes of Wealdstone, Hendon and Hanwell. Moore who played for Both Brentford and Dagenham & Redbridge in the football league has been Hanwell’s boss since 2018.    A very good focal point for the Geordies’ is Alfie Pendlebury. The traditional Centre Forward who is strong in the air and brings other’s into play. Physical and of a good height he will ask question’s of Tivvy’s backline.     Partnering him could well be Mohamed Bettamer, a full Libyan international player. As a Schoolboy he was in Arsenal, QPR and Fulham’s academies.     Bettamer continued his career in a senior capacity at Watford, signing pro forms. Moving on to Hayes & Yeading. In 2013 being of Libyan descent he played his football in the country he eventually represented internationally.     On his return to England, he played for Staines in 2016, where he scored at a ratio of almost a goal every other game, over Two seasons.    Spell’s at  Braintree, Barnet, Welling, Aldershot, Maidstone and a second one at Hayes & Yeading were followed by stint’s at Concord Rangers and Chelmsford City. Bettamer then went back to Libya, before joining Hanwell in 2025.    Winger Kameron English is another to have performed higher up the football pyramid. English is a skilful technician and the sought after wideman, who is a product of Watford’s youth system has a good CV in Non League terms. Hayes & Yeading when they were a National League side, Hungerford, Bracknell and Beaconsfield have all been previous destinations.    Formidable opponent’s prior to their promotion to National South were Chesham and gifted winger Bradley Clayton was a key component for the General’s and with them for Seven campaigns. Clayton became a Geordie, this term.    Goalscoring midfielder Dan Carr, an expert free kick taker and striker of a ball is a dangerous customer. Bracknell and Met Police are former clubs. However it’s at Hanwell where his career has taken off. Carr has made over 150 appearances in all competitions for our visitors and is held in high regard by the club’s fans.    Fellow midfielder Harvey Hoath caught the attention of Chris Moore playing for Marlow last season and joined the Londoner’s from the relegated club in the off season. Hoath has established himself this term and has been a constant in the away side’s line up.    Utility man Joe Wilson who can operate in either defence or midfield is an important and integral performer for the away side and his versatility has seen him heavily involved in this current campaign    Centre Back’s Harvey Seabrook and Dwayne Duncan are experienced defenders. Seabrook formerly of Beaconsfield, is an assured and dependable presence in the heart of Hanwell’s defence and Duncan has played in excess of 200 games for the visitor’s and is a commanding competitor and popular with the club’s fans.    Right back Elijah Oladunjoye is another to have made the move from Marlow and the cultured wide defender was ever present for them last season. He is beginning to establish himself as a permanent fixture for his new side.    Fellow defender Roberto Nditi is a constant this term and is highly thought of. The ex Reading trainee's football journey has included; Eastbourne Borough, Bracknell and Thatcham.    Goalkeeper and captain of Hanwell is Sam Beasant. The 37 year old comes from good Goalkeeping stock, being the son of former Wimbledon, Chelsea, Sheffield United and England custodian Dave Beasant.    Playing in the EFL himself for Stevenage and Cambridge United, Hanwell’s number One has been a top performer in high level non league football for many years.     His CV has Maidenhead, Woking, Billericay, Braintree, Chelmsford, Concord Rangers and Hemel Hempstead on it, higher up the pyramid. Chesham, Beaconsfield and Hanwell are included, as side’s from this league.    It is important to remind ourselve’s that we have weapons of our own for the Geordie’s to contend with. The like’s of Louis Jagger Cane, Dan Koita, Tor Swann and others are capable of making the difference on Saturday.    We move into the second half of the campaign, Six points adrift at the foot of the table. Our scenario gets harder with each draw or loss, but with this the first of 13 home games remaining, opportunities knock, but have to be taken. Let’s get down to the ground and get behind the lad’s.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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