My Items

Match Preview Basingstoke Town v Tiverton Town Saturday April 18th 3pm Kick Off At The Winklebury Football Complex.   The final away day for the Yellows’ this season, sees them visit Basingstoke. Whilst Asa Hall's side know their destiny, Dan Brownlie's team you would feel still need something here to ease all relegation fears. At the weekend our hosts sealed Hungerford's fate with a 3-1 win on the road. However their 48 points is at this moment not a safe total.   Expectations are somewhat low at the moment for Tivvy. Although, hopefully a few of the absentees from Tuesday night's heavy home loss to Wimborne will be available, to give us more of a spark and make us more competitive. Tiverton's depleted squad will need virtually all of their main players on the pitch to do this.   It will be just over a month since the two sides met under the lights at the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium. Stoke ran out comfortable 4-0 winners that evening and visiting the Winklebury Football Complex will be as much of a psychological test as it is a football one.   The Hampshire side have found form at the right time, as a long run of poor results had seen them slide dramatically down the the table. Winning three, drawing two and losing once at Plymouth Parkway in their last Six matches.   Joining Basingstoke In September 2019, manager Dan Brownlie is almost seven years into the job and in the modern game, definitely long serving. He has seen his side relegated, but he has also brought them back up to this level too and is a widely respected boss.   On the playing front; Ore Bello is a forward in red hot form. The former Dover Athletic player has three goals from Stokes’ last two games, a brace against Hungerford and a crucial penalty to beat Sholing. Injury has affected a lot of his season, but the skilful 22 yr old is making up for lost time.   No Basingstoke player has hit double figures this term, but 28 yr old striker George Reid is a good focal point and has strong all round qualities to his forward play. He has spent four seasons at the Winklebury Football Complex. Prior to that he was with Didcot Town and had a short stay with Swindon Supemarine.    Robbie Gallagher is an energetic forward, whose displays have made him popular with the home support. Another ex Didcot man, he is often creative for others and Is in his second season with Basingstoke.   Midfielder Joe Grant was recruited halfway through the season from league rivals Bracknell. An experienced player with strong footballing abilities, Grant had three spells with his former club, amassing around 200 appearances for the Robins’. He was a constant for National South, Chesham, in the last campaign and he has represented; Slough and Hayes & Yeading.    Talented ex Bristol Manor Farm attacking midfielder Tom Blake who was originally with Gloucester, suffered injury a few games back and not knowing the severity of it, could mean that the player who has chipped in with five goals since his arrival from the Bristol side earlier in the season, may be unavailable.   Influential midfield player Ben Cook, though, did make a playing return from injury from the bench on Saturday at Hungerford. He had two stints with Stoke, interrupted by a short stay at Bracknell in the 2022/23 season and has made in excess of 100 Southern League appearances in total.   Bright and highly rated youngster Josh Green has been heavily involved for our hosts this season, after playing for Rayners Lane in the previous campaign. He came through EFL side Reading's academy.   A vital component of this Basingstoke team is James Clarke. The midfielder was a big player for Hungerford when they were playing a step higher and the midfield schemer who arrived at the Winklebury Sports Complex in the 2022/23 season has played over 100 games for our hosts. Maidenhead, Wealdstone and Hayes & Yeading have all sought his services.   Another driving force in midfield is the homegrown D'Andre Brown. A very good technical player, the Basingstoke youth product is into his fifth season at senior level. Box to Box midfielder Zach Ionnides has impressed after arriving on loan from Luton Town and is a second year scholar with the EFL club.   Captain and central defender Billy Upton is an inspirational figure and a mainstay in the Stoke line up. Signed from Badshot Lea in the 2022/23 season, the commanding Upton is noted for his aerial abilities and strong leadership and organisation skills. He has a great relationship with the supporters.   Fellow defender Scott Armsworth has been an integral part of the Hampshire side's backline for a number of campaigns and is a regular in the side. Comfortable in possession and  combative, he was part of Fulham's youth system in his formative years. Briefly with Slough on his release from the West London club, he has become a key player.   Full back Joe O’Loughlin was with us for part of the 2022/23 season. The cultured defender is pretty much an ever present for his new club, after relocating from his West Country base. The former Bath University captain is now 26 and the ex Frome favourite, also had spells with Yate and Tavistock.   Centre back Jack Ball is 34 and his knowhow and pedigree are priceless for our hosts. Three campaigns with Farnborough highlight his defensive attributes. The dependable chief organiser for Basingstoke is a good manipulator of play also. His football journey has also taken in Salisbury and Hartley Wintney.   Goalkeeper Simon Grant brings his vast experience too, to this Stoke side. In 2010/11 he began his Senior career with AFC Hayes, moving onto Slough before enjoying Nine seasons with Marlow.    The gifted keeper’s displays  attracted plenty of interest, whilst there and his services were acquired by Bracknell, Hungerford and Hayes & Yeading.  After a brief return to Bracknell in the 2023/24 season, he signed for his current club and has established himself as a permanent fixture in Dan Brownlie's side.   Asa Hall's men will definitely be hoping to make this final Journey of the season a better one than last weekend. The management team of Hall, Steve Orchard and David Steele will be looking to restore a bit of belief in the dressing room and the players will be determined to give a good account of themselves, when they take to the field on Saturday afternoon.

Match Report Tuesday April 14th At The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium   Tiverton Town 0 Wimborne Town 6 Roberts 3  Fletcher 11,87 Smith 19,39 Jackson 72  Attendance: 153  Darren Holmes The hangover from Saturday's dispiriting defeat at Bracknell was very evident in the first half . Four Wimborne goals without reply typifying the Yellows’ lack of confidence. There was an improvement in the second half, but the damage had already been done.   The Magpies arrived at the Slee Blackwell Stadium knowing that a win would secure Southern League Premier South football next term and did this at a canter. Let's take nothing away from their ruthless, professional display.   Jaydon Biss came into the Tiverton line up, after being part of Yeovil's matchday squad at the weekend. Aiden Horne also returned, as Five changes were made from their trip to Berkshire. George Collins, Liam Cartwright and Charlie Wright the other starters.    Wilkins and Hall were amongst the substitutes, Karim Coulibaly and Gabe Billington were unavailable. Young Plymouth forward Fletcher Poole was fulfilling Argyle duties and another replacement on Saturday Sam Lord was doing the same.   Wimborne drove forward from the first whistle and within three minutes were in the ascendancy. A little indecision in the Yellows’ area whilst defending a long throw into the box, saw centre back Sam Roberts loop his header over John Ross and into the goal.   The Dorset side maintained their territorial dominance and in the 8th minute from a dipping corner into the area, a goalmouth scramble ensued and it took some desperate defending for the Yellows’ to clear their lines, from under the crossbar.    However with a little over Ten minutes played and the game being played solely in Tiverton's half, a second goal did follow. Once again Ross was beaten, when a well delivered cross was met by Striker Will Fletcher's head and his neatly directed aerial attempt disappeared into the net.   Asa Hall's men were firmly on the backfoot and Fletcher then missed the target with another header. Ross's smart save to deny the lively Joe Smith kept Wimborne at bay briefly. Smith rifled his next attempt into the top of the netting to make it three, after making space for himself in the box, with 19th minutes complete.   It was relentless from the Magpies and there was little in the way of respite for Tiverton, as Tim Sill's cohesive side almost rubbed salt into the wound when Cameron Munn fizzed an effort a fraction over the bar. Next, the impressive Roberts  broke up a rare Yellows’ attack and strode into the Tivvy half, before releasing Max Bustamante who wasn't far away with his piledriver.    In the 35th minute it looked for all intents and purposes that we got away with one. There was strong contact in the area on Ethan Sills, but the Referee thought differently. Although less than five minutes later Smith added a third and completed his brace. A defence splitting ball from captain Sam Jackson found the ever moving target Smith who finished from close range.   When the Referee blew up to end play in the opening period, it was in all honesty a relief that it wasn't more than the 4-0 scoreline. These are testing times for Asa Hall's young squad and the half time team talk couldn't have come sooner.   On the resumption of play it was the Yellows’ who created their first chance of the evening. About a minute after the restart Stephen’s had a shot blocked from range. As the ball was neatly recycled with a good sequence of passing, an inviting low cross across the face of goal, was a whisker away from being turned home. Although it eluded everyone and the visitors were able to clear.   Tiverton were more deliberate with their passes in the opening exchanges of the concluding period and that better accuracy stopped Wimborne from having complete control of possession.    A 48th minute corner was forced soon after, but pressure on the ball from the outswinging delivery meant, although a Yellows’ player was able to glance his header on, it trickled out of play past the post, with the keeper able to watch the ball out.     A promising beginning to the half and there was a real attempt to hurry the Magpies’ out of their stride, but it wasn’t long before the business-like and talented away side started to threaten again.    In the 55th minute they forced a corner and from it a powerful Jackson header was palmed away by Ross. After a probing Wimborne forced another corner around Five minutes further into the match, Sills’ wicked ball in couldn't find any takers and the Yellows’ breathed a sigh of relief.   Concerted pressure from the away side in the 64th minute saw substitute Lewis Williams skip a few challenges down our left and cut the ball back to Sills, whose shot was charged down. In the next phase of play, a cross was returned into the area and Fletcher headed wide.   With almost 70 minutes gone, Wimborne had been ringing the changes and another replacement, ex Bournemouth and Aston Villa academy player Ajani Burchall, saw it open up for him. There was a bobble though and with him unable to cleanly strike his shot, the ball rolled harmlessly into Ross’s arms.   Liam Cartwright and George Collins then made way for Sol Padmore and Drew Sloan. In the 72nd minute the second half deadlock was broken. Max Bustamante was tripped out wide and the Taker hung the ball up into the area for captain Jackson to apply the finish with his head.   The Magpies upped the tempo from there on in and a rearguard was needed from the Yellows’.  Following a flowing, incisive move, Williams’ slid in at the back post, but at full stretch his shot lacked the power to beat Ross.    In the 85th minute Fletcher got his head on the ball in a challenge with the Tivvy keeper and the ball rolled against the outside of the post. William's and the former then had shots blocked in quick succession by the Yellows’ backline and then a third bite of the cherry, saw a shot flash a fraction wide.   Asa Hall's men had been working hard to prevent any more goals being conceded, but when a cross in took a deflection and ballooned up, it was Fletcher who was the most instinctive. The Wimborne striker nodded home from a few yards out, with a few minutes of normal time left.   This rounded off the scoring and it was another heavy defeat for Tiverton. Wimborne are a good club, with supporters that are a credit to them. It wasn’t long ago that they were relegated from this division and were able to return. This victory was totally deserved and the margin of it could have been more.   The Yellows play their final away game of the season on Saturday. They will travel to Basingstoke in another testing encounter, before two home games to finish the season. Gosport will be the visitors on the following Tuesday evening and we will entertain Farnham the following Saturday.   Tiverton: Ross(gk), G.Collins(69), Biss, Wood(c), Koerner, Kennell, Stephen's, Cartwright(69), Wellington, Wright, Horne Subs: Padmore(69), Sloan(69), Hall, Wilkins

Match Preview Tiverton Town V Wimborne Town Tuesday April 14th 7.45pm Kick Off At The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium   Under the lights on Tuesday Evening, Tiverton will take on Dorset side Wimborne.  It will be hard to move on from Saturday's drubbing at the hands of Bracknell, but there is no point in dwelling too long on that result or for the players to feel sorry for themselves. There is always another game to put things right.   Matt Wood inherited the captaincy away to Wimborne and led the side to a solid point. There have been some highs and real lows as a squad so far for the young captain. (Viv Curtis) Two weeks of the season remain and four games. Three of them are at home and this is the first of those fixtures at the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium. Asa Hall’s men will be intent on giving the fans something to cheer about as the campaign begins to draw to a close.   In managerial terms it's the battle between two former Torquay favourites. Asa Hall will be up against Tim Sills. Hall is of course revered by Gull’s fans and in 2009 Sill's fired home the second goal in the Conference National Play Off Final, sending Torquay back into the EFL. The Popular striker scored 34 times in 107 games for them and will always be fondly remembered at Plainmoor.   Sill's Wimborne saw many departures in pre-season, following a reduction to the playing budget. He has instigated a rebuild that initially saw them in the top half of the table.   After Saturday's defeat at home to Berkhamsted however, the Magpies are still probably three points shy of survival and will want to get over the line before the pressure starts to mount. The away meeting was only a month ago, when the Two teams played out a goalless draw at the Wyatt Homes Stadium.   The enigmatic Rafa Ramos was signed recently after starting the season with Gosport Borough, followed by a short spell with Winchester. A towering presence and gifted footballer, Ramos has yet to recapture the kind of form at Gosport in the 2023/24 season that saw National South side Salisbury acquire his services. On his day he is a menacing proposition.   Joe Smith was prolific in the league below last term for Bemerton Heath Harlequins, where his strike partner was ex Yellow Leighton Thomas. Smith found the net on 23 occasions in 29 league games for his former team and the talented forward has 8 for his new club.   Striker Will Fletcher was a mainstay last season and has remained at the new look Wimborne for this campaign. Fletcher spent quite a few seasons with Poole and the Dorset based player was with Dorchester for the 2023/24 campaign. Moving to the Wyatt Homes Stadium last term, he has realised his clear potential. He has scored 26 times from 78 games in a Magpie's shirt.   Bermudan born winger Ajani Burchall has impressed recently. Still only 21, he became Bournemouth's third youngest player ever, when he played a game for them in the Championship during the 2020/21 campaign. He was with the Cherries’ between 2016 and 2020 and then transferred to Aston Villa and was released last year.   Talented and speedy, young technical forward Lewis Williams has arrived from Andover New Street and his performances have caught the eye in this division. William's came through Eastleigh's youth academy. Another forward option is another prospect a little way into his senior career, Max Bustamante. He has interested many in recent years, Sholing was home for him last term and Basingstoke before that.   Marquee signing, ex EFL player Josh McQuoid from Weymouth though, has been a long term absentee. The 36 year old, formerly a striker/winger, is more commonly used in midfield these days.   A full Northern Ireland international, he played in the Championship for; Millwall, Burnley and Bournemouth. Making 195 appearances in the EFL overall, with Peterborough, Coventry, Luton and Stevenage other destinations. Dropping into the Non League, he was at Weymouth over Two spells, Aldershot similarly and briefly with Torquay.   Creative midfielder Josh Carmichael was at Bournemouth as a  Ten year old, in 2004. He progressed through the age group side's and was capped by Scotland Under 16's and Under 19's, going on to play 4 league games in the EFL. After being released the gifted Carmichael who is now 31 was tracked by a lot of top non league clubs.   His service's have been acquired by Weymouth when they were playing higher up the pyramid, Torquay, Poole, Salisbury, Gosport and Totton. He is a wily operator and is another to remain from the previous campaign. This is his Third season with the Club.   Drew Eccott-Young was also part of the side, last term. The midfielder, who played for Dorchester during the 2023/24 campaign is a combative performer, who is tidy in possession and joined Eastleigh, when his Senior career was in its infancy.   After playing a couple of games for Eastleigh in his formative year's, Cameron Munn who was with Hamworthy United for a number of season's has gradually established himself as an integral part of Tim Sill's team. A good manipulator of the ball, he is close to making 100 appearances in all competition's for the visitor's.   A constant for the Magpies’ is left back and captain, Sam Jackson. The ex Poole, Dorchester and Bashley man has played over 100 times in the Southern League over the past Three seasons, for the Dorset team and is a key player with his strong positional sense, dependability and calmness in possession.   Sam Roberts after an injury lay off is back in the heart of the visitors defence. He was a big player for Salisbury, has a good football pedigree and plenty of knowhow. A strong communicator and organiser on the pitch, the centre back is very much a leader for Tim Sill's side. Gosport, Totton and Winchester are all previous clubs.   Fellow centre back Tyler Edmonson is a young recruit from Bashley. Coming through the ranks at Southampton, he was on loan at Sholing and on his release from the Saints’, the in demand Edmondson signed for Eastleigh last term.   Close to 100 Southern League games for Wimborne, right back Billy Walker has been integral to the Magpies’ plans for the past three seasons. A real workhorse and a tenacious competitor, Walker was formerly with fellow Dorset side Hamworthy United.   Seventeen year old  Goalkeeper Oscar Abbotson is on a youth loan from Southampton and played his first game in senior football for Wimborne earlier in the season, whilst still 16. An unfortunate season ending injury to established number one Cameron Plain back in December, has given the highly regarded Saints prospect, a chance to stake his claim.   Pride will be at stake for the Yellows’ and first and foremost they will need to compete better than they did on Saturday, if they are to run a Wimborne side with achieving safety very much on their minds, close on Tuesday evening. So let's get down to the ground and support the lad’s.

Match Report Saturday April 11th At Bottom Meadow   Bracknell Town 8 Tiverton Town 0 Mcgregor 2 Johnson-Schuster 20 Esprit 35,37 Gregory 44 Murphy 54 Marinescu 67 Harris 91 Often fragile during this extremely difficult season, from the outside this always seemed destined to happen at some point. That said, there is still little excuse for a defeat of this nature. I'm sure there will have been plenty of hurting, on the pitch, in the dressing room and on the long coach journey home for the players and coaching staff.   A disappointing day was topped off for Jacob Wellington as he collected a late yellow card. (Viv Curtis) The Yellows’ lined up for this one, with Toby Stephens and Karim Coulibaly both starters after being playing substitutes against Plymouth Parkway on Easter Monday. Aiden Horne and Sam Lord, making way.   Not for the first time this season, we conceded very early. Giovanni McGregor took aim from outside the box and John Ross wasn't able to get a big enough glove on his shot. The second minute opener set the tone for what evolved into an extremely uncomfortable Afternoon for Asa Hall's men.   The Robins’ were dominant in possession and Tiverton seemed powerless to stop them. In the 17th minute it looked like our hosts had doubled their lead. Wycombe loanee Arthur Gregory slotted home, but saw his goal ruled out for a foul in the build up.   Bracknell though didn't have to wait long for their second. Defender Marcus Johnson-Schuster up for a set-piece, looped his header over Ross to extend their lead, three minutes after the disallowed goal. A flustered Yellows’ had barely made an imprint in the game.   Then Gabe George's inswinging corner that took a ride on the wind, almost added a third, dropping onto the crossbar. However, the relief for Tivvy was momentary. Two goals in quick succession from proven striker Jordan Esprit saw the rampant Robins’ take total control of the game.   For Esprit’s first he raced onto a ball that opened up our backline and provided an accomplished finish into the corner and then only a few minutes later he got on the end of Harry Murphy's cut back, to slot home from a tight angle.   A Miscalculation at the back compounded our misery at half time.  Arthur Gregory took full advantage of this, to tap the ball into an unguarded goal, with 44 minutes on the clock, to add a Fifth. A clearly second best Tiverton trudged off to the dressing room, five goals behind.   Changes enforced or otherwise were made at the break. Sam Lord and Liam Cartwright coming on and Asa Hall and Karim Coulibaly going off. Such was the dominance of the home team in the opening half, that the outcome of the game was already a foregone conclusion.    Pride and knuckling down, as much as the tactical side of the game, were clearly on a reduced menu for the players when they returned. Mathematically Bracknell knew that the Three points on offer here would ensure Southern League Premier South football again next season, but their extremely remote chances of relegation had clearly been put to bed.   The second half followed suit territorially, a slightly improved version of the Yellows’ continued the game. Although less than Ten minutes after the restart Harry Murphy added his name to the scoresheet, poking home an inviting ball in.   The Yellows’ kept plucking away against a Bracknell side that rang the changes in the second half. One of those was made at half time with the introduction of 16 year old keeper Callum Miles(the youngest goalkeeper to play in this division) and another substitution saw Mihail Marinescu come on.   It was the Romanian winger who scored the Robins’ seventh, smashing his shot past Ross to end a bright passage of play from the home side, with 67 minutes completed. Gabe George then nearly made it Eight, but struck the bar once again with Ten minutes remaining in a contest that had psychologically ended a long time ago.   Connor Harris rounded off the scoring in the last action of the game, as he headed home. A truly deflating and painful experience for the Yellows’ and a record defeat in this division too.   This won't be quickly forgotten by this young group of players and they will have a chance to give a better account of themselves on Tuesday night versus Wimborne. However, for now there is no hiding from the thrashing dished out by Bracknell and credit to them for their dominant and skilful display.   Tiverton: Ross(gk), Wilkins, Wood(c), Koerner, Hall(45), Kennell(67), Billington, Stephens, Wellington, Coulibaly(45), Poole Subs: Lord(45), Cartwright(45), Wright(67), Horne

Match Preview Bracknell Town v Tiverton Town Saturday April 11th 3pm Kick Off At The SB Stadium Bottom Meadow   Darren Holmes Yellow's fans enjoying the 2-0 home win against Bracknell back in September. (Viv Curtis) A performance that warranted more than it achieved on Easter Monday versus Plymouth Parkway should definitely not be seen in the negative. The players almost executed a game plan then that could easily have won that game, but for a few sloppy moments.   Bracknell upset Farnham in the last round of fixtures and actually achieved the double over their local rivals who occupy one of the play off positions.    Without an extremely troublesome start to the season, which saw Two managerial departures in the first Three months of the campaign, the Eleventh positioned Robins who only had 6 points on the board after 12 games would probably be contesting the play off places themselves.   Their fortunes have changed dramatically since the appointment of interim manager; former player Carl Davies and first team coach Sean Miles who had a high profile job as the strength and conditioning coach at National League side Sutton United, before taking up this role.   Earlier in the season, like Plymouth Parkway, Tiverton also beat Bracknell. Though our hosts are stronger this time around. Our  recent loan signings appear to have enhanced the squad and made us more competitive too. Fletcher Poole, Sam Lord and Liam Cartwright have all adapted well to the division.   There has also been a very encouraging return from the treatment table for Gabe Billington. The midfielder is in good form and has scored in each of the games he has played since injury. This all bodes well for the future.   Meanwhile in the present, Bracknell have potent striker Jack Mazzone in their ranks. Not a starter in recent games, but Mazzone is very much a proven player and accomplished finisher at this level. Beginning the season with Chertsey, he moved to the Robins’ midway through the campaign.   Regularly amongst the goals for Met Police, he has played against Tiverton on many occasions. His tally of 25 from 40 games last term are evidence of the danger that he possesses. This term he has notched 14 goals.   Another name striker in this league is Jordan Esprit. His intelligent movement has been apparent on his visits to Ladysmead and he is a gifted all round forward. This is a second stint with the Berkshire side. 36 goals from 72 games was a very good return in his first spell.    This saw him move a step higher with Hemel Hempstead and then join Walton & Hersham during last season. Re-signed for this campaign, Esprit hasn't been as prolific since returning. However a goal and an assist on Monday suggest he's in good form.   A further striking option is Nebay Haile. The Eritrean frontman has featured mainly off the bench. He is 26 and has brief National South experience with Hemel Hempstead and Dulwich Hamlet.   Winger Ody Alfa is Nigerian born and came through QPR's academy. A talented technician, for four years he had a squad number for the West London outfit. The talented technician was loaned out to Maidenhead, Billericay, Dartford, Aldershot and Chelmsford whilst with the Championship side.   On his release Chelmsford made him a permanent signing and the 27 year old also played for National League Rochdale and Slough before arriving at Bracknell. He did play once for QPR in the League Cup.   Captain Charlie Kennedy has plenty of non league experience to call upon. A cultured central midfielder or defender, Kennedy was a promotion winner with Totton last term. An admired leader on the field, he also captained Salisbury. Prior to that he plied his trade with Gosport, Basingstoke and Hayes & Yeading, starting his football journey at Barnet.   Midfielder Giovanni McGregor was a young Pro at Crystal Palace. Briefly with Hanwell at the start of the season, since his move he has become a regular with the Robins’. After Palace he joined Dulwich Hamlet where he was a mainstay in their 2021/22 campaign. McGregor also has; Wealdstone, Dartford, Hemel Hempstead and Chelmsford on his CV.   Connor Harris is a highly thought of youngster, whose parent club is Farnborough. He is very much part of the management team's plans and has given some eye catching displays from his midfield berth. Previously at AFC Wimbledon, he had another loan spell in this division, earlier in the season at Basingstoke.   Harry Murphy, like Ody Alfa was with QPR in his formative years and the talented midfielder has impressed since arriving on loan from Bedford Town.    Gabriel George is a left-sided midfield player who is a very good footballer and was with Slough at the start of his senior career. Originally a loanee when with Slough, George is a constant selection and has been since his permanent signature was acquired last term. He is close to 100 Southern League games for the Robins’.   Defensively there is good experience in Bracknell's squad. A seasoned performer at this level Jeanmal Prosper who is very comfortable on the ball, is on a season long loan from Slough, after being an ever present there last term.    The 32 yr old right back/midfielder has vast pedigree, having been a favourite with Chesham for whom he had a long playing association and has played internationally for Dominica, the country of his birth.   Powerful Defender Marcus Johnson-Schuster began the season with Basingstoke, a club which he was a very prominent player with. It was his Third stint at Stoke and he made in excess of 200 senior appearances for them. He spent time in Plymouth Argyle's academy as a youngster. Amongst others the accomplished right- sided player, has represented; Braintree and Hungerford, higher up the pyramid.   Currently part of QPR's youth system, Jack McDowell is a young prospect whose displays have belied his years. The centre back spent a decade in Aston Villa's academy prior to that. He has also been on loan at Averley.   Nomadic, Reading born keeper Zaki Oualah, once played professionally for AFC Wimbledon and similarly in the Algerian First Division. A real character, the gifted gloveman is Bracknell's current custodian.    He was Chesham's number one in their promotion season and the 31 year old's other clubs on his CV of which there are 22 more, include;  Weymouth, Billericay, Farnborough, Leatherhead and Farnham.   The motivation for our young squad should be tests like these and how as players they measure up. We are now on the final stretch of this campaign and the Players should have the freedom to express themselves.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING TO BE HELD AT THE CLUB ON TUESDAY 5TH MAY 2026 ALL WELCOME BUT ONLY PAID UP MEMBERS ARE PERMITTED TO VOTE ANY NOMINATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY 28TH APRIL. ANY AMENDMENT PROPOSALS TO THE CONSTITUTION MUST BE MADE IN WRITING TO THE CLUB SECRETARY BY 28 TH  APRIL 2026.  contact@tivertontownfc.uk or by mail to Tiverton Town Secretary, The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium, Bolham Road, Tiverton EX16 6SG. The club is also recruiting a volunteer Fixture Secretary and Program Editor for the 2026/2027. For more information, please contact contact@tivertontownfc.uk At the end of the season, Vice Chairman Matthew Conridge and Treasurer Kimm Smith will step down from their respective roles at the football club. Expressions of interest from those who would like to fill these vacancies are welcome via email in the first instance to contact@tivertontownfc.uk

Match Report Easter Monday April 6th At The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium   Tiverton Town 2 Hall 9  Billington 45+1 Plymouth Parkway 3 C. Garside pen 17 R.Garside 63 Thompson 79 Att: 380   Arguably the most complete half that the Yellows’ have produced at home all season was a joy to watch in the accompaniment of uninterrupted blue skies. An average showing in the second half allowed our visitors back into the game and underlined why we are, where we are.   Brooklyn Wilkins (Viv Curtis) Parkway's line up included Toby Down, our captain a short while back and players from season’s past; Carlo Garside, Jack Veale and Callum Hall. Tiverton welcomed back Asa Hall and had Aiden Horne and Fletcher Poole up top, with a strong looking bench which included; Toby Stephens, Dean Moxey and Karim Coulibaly.   Hall's men imposed a high tempo on the game and immediately pushed our very much in-form local rival's back. This Easter Monday fixture saw the Yellows’ full of positive intentions and Parkway struggled to contain Tiverton's press.   Making early inroads into away territory and utilising the movement and pace of Fletcher Poole and Aiden Horne, there was a good flow to Tivvy's play. The team, looking assured and confident in possession, soon broke our visitor's defensive line.    Argyle loanee Poole got in behind, after an excellent ball through, showing his marker a clean pair of heels. Although the situation was read by veteran goalkeeper Luke McCormick who of course is no stranger to Home Park himself. He closed down the angle and made himself big, to block away the young forward’s effort.   Resuming on the front foot the Yellows' were really forcing the issue. Fluent in possession and swarming over the visitors’, Tiverton continued to stretch their opponents and with nine minutes played they were rewarded.    An incisive move with Tivvy sweeping forward and exchanging passes turned Parkway round. The cutback from the by-line was begging to be hit and up stepped Hall to duly oblige in providing a sumptuous, emphatic finish that the move deserved, firing into the top corner.   The Ninth minute opener provoked an inevitable reaction from the away side and ended a period of dominance. They had started to find their way back into the game and it was much more even, when it opened up for the South Devon side and in a coming together between Ross and a Parkway forward, a penalty was awarded.   Former Yellow Carlo Garside was the appointed taker and he made no mistake in finding the corner and levelling things up, with 17 minutes played.   Poole, always a willing runner, was found again as he raced onto another measured ball over the top. McCormick once again came to his side's rescue. Parkway were struggling to deal with the lively forward's movement, but his well-struck shot was denied by the quick reflexes and parry of the away side's keeper in the 20th minute.   Our visitors, with the experienced Ryan Brett and the Garside brothers(Rio and Carlo) more prominent, broke with purpose around Five minutes later. A slick piece of football left Callum Hall one-on-one with Ross, who was able to thwart the ex Tivvy man.   Reece Thompson in his eagerness to steer in the rebound was late on Matt Wood as he attempted to clear away and was cautioned by the Referee.   The Yellows’ though reassumed control and around the half-hour mark Fletcher Poole with some neat hold up play, slotted the ball back to Billington who in turn fed the onrushing Horne. His cross in was met by a Tiverton head, but McCormick claimed, to ease the danger.   Taylor Scarff who was being given a testing time by Poole then just managed to hold him up as he again threatened, latching onto an astute pass from the influential Billington in the 35th minute.   Then from a Tivvy free kick after Horne who was making a real nuisance of himself was fouled, Koerner’s delivery into the box was inviting. Wood headed back across to Billington who couldn't quite keep his header on target. A last ditch clearance from Down also eased relentless pressure from the Yellows’.   With half time approaching Sam Lord made a good breaking run from midfield and was played in by Horne, but he was ushered away by a recovering defender. However, in the additional minute added on, Tiverton regained their lead.    Poole, always a moving target, appeared down Parkway's left channel and a good lifted pass saw him quickly retrieve and progress to the by-line, ahead of his marker. He pulled the ball back and there on the edge of the box was Billington who supplied a ruthless assured side- footed finish. Using the pace of the ball to slot home.   There was only time for our visitors to kick off and a thoroughly enjoyable first half if you're a Tivvy fan came to an end. The half was as good as anything they had produced at home all season and it was as dangerous as we have looked as an attacking force.   Parkway had been second best in the opening 45 minutes, but they started strongly after the interval. Asa Hall's men had to hold firm, as they forced a corner and were having the Lion's share of possession.   With almost a quarter of an hour gone of the concluding half, Asa Hall's thumping tackle won possession for the home side, releasing Poole who took the ball past his man and continued down the flank. His testing ball into the area was hurriedly cleared out for a corner.   Miscommunication though from Ross and Billington moments later, presented the visitors with a chance to go ahead. However, a bit of a miskick/ airshot, spared blushes and the Yellows’ had the ball back.   In the 63rd minute they attacked again and seemed to be finding their passes a little too easy without pressure on the ball. When the ball came to unmarked captain Rio Garside in the box, he acrobatically volleyed home.   In response to going a goal behind Two substitutions were made by Steve Orchard and David Steele. Karim Coulibaly replaced Horne who had given another energetic display and played very well alongside our Starman on the day Fletcher Poole.   The second change saw Toby Stephen’s return from a brief spell out with injury and come on for Hall. Parkway were having the better of it, as in the warm conditions the tempo dropped. After withstanding some pressure though, Stephen's with impressive footwork, beat a few players and was a whisker away from playing Coulibaly in.   It was Tiverton who had a good spell for the next few minutes, as Coulibaly seemed to be fouled out wide by Down, but the Referee thought otherwise and gave a free kick against Coulibaly. Then Poole once again was played in over the top, but he couldn't keep his shot down.   Although it was some questionable defending that resulted in what turned out to be the game's winning goal. A mix up led to Ross being out of position and Thompson had the easy task of putting the ball into an empty net and accepted in the 79th minute.   Poole fashioned a chance for himself a few minutes later with a neat shift of feet, but his powerful shot was marginally too high. There was also strong contact on him which unsteadied him and would have definitely resulted in a penalty if he had not got his shot off, as quickly as he did.   Lord who had looked accomplished and had been creative throughout, departed and Collins was introduced.   The Yellows’ pressed for an equaliser and a good spot from Wilkins whose pass released Wellington, nearly gave us one last opportunity to take away a share of the spoils. A Parkway player recovered round though and it wasn't to be.   We were excellent in the first half today and worthy of holding a bigger advantage at the break, but the more experienced Parkway despite not being convincing were the slightly better side in the second half and found a way to win.   Lot's to be positive about though in this display and we were a lot more convincing going forward today. On Saturday Asa Hall's men are back in action, when they travel to mid-table Bracknell.   Tiverton: Ross(gk), Wilkins, Wood(c), Koerner, Lord(80), Hall(68), Kennell, Billington, Wellington, Poole, Horne(66) Subs: Coulibaly(66), Stephens(68), Collins(80), Moxey, Kelly.

Match Preview Tiverton Town v Plymouth Parkway Easter Monday April 6th 3pm Kick Off At The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium   The traditional Easter Monday fixture will take place at home against Devon Rivals Plymouth Parkway, following our confirmed relegation. A fate that had been looming for a long time may have been reached and obviously represents a sad and challenging time at the club. Further reflections will be made over the coming months, no doubt.   Matt Wood picking up the MOTM award away to Wimbourne on his first appearance as Captain (Viv Curtis) Looking at this encounter though, it’s impossible to not recall the reverse fixture that hinted at our survival chances being renewed over the Christmas period. An impressive 2-1 victory on the road that day, followed by the same scoreline being achieved in that stirring game at home against Taunton.   Comings and goings in both camps, have seen the departures since of   Parkway manager Chris McPhee, Tivvy's source of goals at Bolitho Park Tor Swann and quite a few of the supporting cast too.    A rejuvenated Parkway have made big strides in recent weeks, winning Five of their last Seven matches under Interim manager Stuart Dudley, to pull away from the relegation places. A big 3-0 win at home against Basingstoke on Friday, giving them breathing space and catapulting them up to Twelfth.   Dudley, a former player with the South Devon side, has been around the club for a long time. However I don't feel as though many would have expected the quick transformation, following his appointment.    Tiverton will be hoping to have a few more bodies back for what is always an eagerly anticipated fixture. That said in the absence of established players on Friday, others performed admirably in running a strong Sholing outfit close.   For quite a few players it will be their first taste of this hotly contested Derby and they will be aiming to gain from the experience and thrive in the atmosphere of it. Last season’s game at The Slee Blackwell Solicitors game ended goalless and these have always been close encounters.   There will be a healthy number of ex-Yellows in the visitor's matchday squad, with recently departed captain Toby Down being one of them. Callum Hall, Carlo Garside, Rocky Neal, Mikey Williams and Jack Veale have all had spells with us.    Corey Koerner had a brief spell with Parkway, whilst with Torquay and as  young Pro's at Yeovil and Exeter respectively Toby Stephens and Gabe Billington were loanees for them in the 2022/23 season. Earlier in this campaign Fletcher Poole had a brief stint on loan at Bolitho Park from parent club Plymouth Argyle.   Leading the line for the away side could well be the newly re-signed Reece Thompson. This is his Third time with them. Beginning with the South Devon team in the 2023/24 season, he spent the majority of the next season at Helston, before rejoining them for the end of that campaign.    Thompson had been playing at Saltash, for whom he has Played for a fair amount of times during his senior career. His return has coincided with a reversal In fortunes for Parkway.   Rocky Neal, a named substitute on Friday, is an excellent striker to have in your armory, if fit. A Teenage Neal played for the Yellows’, but is noted for his striking ability both with Taunton and Truro. Conjuring up a lot of outstanding strikes and clever assists for both clubs.   Despite an injury hit season he has 8 goals and Asa Hall's men would be foolish to discount his threat. Playing for a number of seasons in National South, he has both experience and pedigree.   Like Neal, Callum Hall was a trainee at Argyle and after his release played for Tiverton in the 2017/18 and 2018/19 seasons as a wide player both defensively and in an attacking capacity. Hall became a Police Officer and due to work commitments joined Willand the following season.   He started playing for his current team in the 2020/21 season and has been a pivotal player ever since, especially after moving into midfield. His often inspirational performances have made him hugely popular with the club's fans. He scored a hat-trick on Friday.   Older brother of Carlo, Rio Garside is the captain and another constant in the Visitors line up. The cultured Garside is a good footballer with strong leadership qualities. Another former academy product at Argyle, he spent three campaigns with Truro. He arrived on loan in the 2022/23 campaign, signing permanently the season after.   Will Sullivan has established himself as a regular in the side, after plying his trade in Cornwall with Helston and Mousehole last term. The talented youngster is another whose formative years were, as part of Argyle's academy.   35 yr old midfielder/defender Ryan Brett has amassed an abundance of pedigree and knowhow. Yes he was a young Pro at Argyle, before establishing himself as a key player for Salisbury City. Brett then had a Three year stay with Truro who were playing a step higher.   Moving to Taunton the cultured and dependable Brett was integral to their success in another Three year spell. Returning back to Truro, he was for four seasons with the Tinners’. Parkway has been his home since the start of the previous campaign.   Our visitors moved quickly to sign defender Jensen Ireland from Argyle following his release and he has been a constant in their backline. He is an ever- present this term and comfortable In possession.   Taylor Scarff is a commanding presence for Parkway. A trainee with Yeovil, the former Tavistock centre back caught the eye in the reverse fixture. Scarff has also played for Barnstaple and is an imposing figure.   With Frankie Phillips returning to Exeter, there is some uncertainty around who will be between the sticks on Monday. Veteran ex Argyle legend Luke McCormick answered the call to play against Basingstoke. A top quality keeper for Swindon and Oxford United as well.   Derbies are always special occasions whatever the situation and are exciting affairs for Players and fans alike. Let's hope for an entertaining spectacle and a positive outcome. So let's get down to the ground and support the lad’s!

Match Report Good Friday April 3rd At The Mortgage Decisions Stadium   Sholing 2 Wylie 27, Tume 79 Tiverton 1 Billington 12   (Viv Curtis) Relegation to Division 1 was confirmed, as Tiverton fell to defeat at Solent side Sholing. The writing had been on the wall for a considerable amount of time, but this still represented a sad day, for all Yellows’. A Nine season stay in Southern League Premier South has come to an end.   There have been some promising performances in recent weeks’, along with a couple of drubbings. No one can fault the effort or the undeniable individual qualities of the players, but over the season as a collective we have fallen short.   The Yellows’ came into this one on the back of a slim defeat at home against Evesham. The injury count stood at Three from that fixture, with Dean Moxey ruled out and Asa Hall and Toby Stephens both amongst the substitutes. Two plusses were the returning Gabe Billington and Exeter loanee Liam Cartwright to the starting line up, after recovering from their respective injuries.   Plymouth loanee’s Sam Lord and Fletcher Poole were also in the Matchday Eleven, with the unavailable Jack Kennell another absentee. Four changes are a lot to have to make, however this was another encouraging display from Tiverton.   Asa Hall’s men had to withstand some early concerted pressure from the Boatmen. They were grateful for some strong defending from Matt Wood and Corey Koerner in the 3rd minute, to Shepherd away and dispossess a Sholing attacker and then to John Ross for his razor sharp reflexes at point blank range, to deny James Roberts, a few minutes later.   Tivvy then blocked a Tommy Lee Higgs effort at close quarters and then the Yellows’ started to settle. Poole broke at pace with purpose and advanced deep into the home side's half, fashioning a chance for himself with a shift of feet. His shot warmed keeper Jack Turner's gloves.   In the 12th minute Billington demonstrated his worth to the team. Missing in recent weeks because of injury, he drove forward to the edge of the Boatmen’s box and provided a classy curling sidefooted finish into the bottom corner to give the Yellows’ the lead.   Tivvy, lifted by the early goal, had their tails up and were knocking the ball around convincingly. Horne and Cartwright exchanged passes and made good progress down Sholing’s left. However, a last ditch clearance stifled a dangerous cross into the area, with 20 minutes gone.    Frustrations grew for the Play Off placed team and a forceful mistimed tackle on the skillful Coulibaly, saw the offender find his way into the Referee's book. It was free kicks in quick succession, as a slick Tiverton had clearly rattled the Hampshire side.   Although just before the half-hour mark it was all square. When Wood prodded the ball away from an attacker in the area into Ross’s arms, it was adjudged to be a back-pass. A Nine-Man wall was assembled inside the Six Yard box and the indirect free-kick was turned to Reece Wylie who bludgeoned a strike into the top corner.   Momentum switched to the Boatmen at that point. The busy Coulibaly on defensive duties conceded what was very much a team foul to halt the host's progress and then as they tried to exert their physical advantage, Wood was the recipient of a strong challenge.   In the 41st minute after some neat approach play from Sholing, Wylie screwed wide. Then a few minutes later Vinnie Tume struck a post. With half time beckoning there was another chance for Mason to head his side in front. The ball went along the goal-line though and the watchful Wellington cleared the danger.   It was a dominant end to the first period for the promotion hopefuls, but Tiverton resolutely held on and headed off for some half time refreshments with honours even.   There was plenty of endeavour from the Yellows’ as the game resumed. Playing at a high tempo and trying to restore their advantage, Aiden Horne's attempt from distance fizzed into the advertising boards behind the goal, as Asa Hall's men signalled their intent.   Going confidently about their business and with the Three pronged attacking threat of Horne, Coulibaly and Poole, it was the latter, young Plymouth prospect Poole who was the next to cause the Boatmen alarm, in the 52nd minute.   His good movement, a feature of his play, saw him sent through. Turner hurried off his line to meet him and  had to make a lunging tackle to keep his side's lead. I have been personally impressed by Poole who has more than adapted to the physical demands of this league and shown very good quality in the final third.   Higgs then swivelled and shot from just outside of the Tivvy box as our hosts applied pressure up the other  end. The effort may have cleared the bar, however there is no denying that the Southampton side are an accomplished footballing outfit and their flowing play was to the fore.   Aiden Horne had once again put a real shift in and not given his markers a moment’s peace, but with Twenty Five minutes of normal time still to play made way for Charlie Wright.   A point blank stop with his feet from Ross and some alert defending from Wellington was urgently needed when it opened up for the home side in the 70th minute. Poole relieved some of the pressure that was building when he embarked on a driving run and his quick footed carry saw him pull back for Wellington.    Bizarrely, contrary to the laws of the game an offside flag was raised and prompted the Referee to give a baffling decision.    In the 79th minute though with Sholing in the ascendancy, we went behind. Vinnie Tume made some space for himself as he proceeded into the area and supplied an emphatic driven finish, low into the corner of Ross's goal.   The Yellows’ were not to be deterred and Sholing were quick to recognise that we weren't giving this one up without a fight. Sam Lord was clattered into as Tiverton built from the back and an obvious yellow card was brandished.   Charlie Wright surged forward and his curling attempt wasn't far away from levelling things up in the 88th minute. Five minutes additional time was added and early Into it Coulibaly who had given another good performance was replaced by fellow Under 18 Harrison Jordan.   The predatory Poole was close to salvaging an equaliser at the death, when he got in between the centre back and the keeper, however Turner just beat his outstretched boot to gather and 2-1 is how it ended.    There will be much to ponder between now and the end of the season, but there is still plenty of football yet to play before the curtain comes down on it. SIx games remain and a Devon Derby is next on the horizon for Tiverton, with the arrival of Plymouth Parkway on Easter Monday.    A light may have gone out, but there will be quite a few chances for Asa Hall's young guns to shine before the campaign is over.   Tiverton: Ross(gk), Wilkins, Wood(c), Koerner, Lord, Billington, Cartwright, Wellington, Coulibaly(90), Poole, Horne(65) Subs: Wright(65), Jordan(90), Hall, Stephens

Match Preview Sholing v Tiverton Town  Good Friday, April 3rd 3pm Kick Off At The Mortgage Decisions Stadium   Darren Holmes   Tiverton will start their Easter programme and will play their first game of the final month of the season, at play off contender’s Sholing on Good Friday. A suburb of Southampton, the Hampshire based side have Saints legend Matt Le Tissier in the dual roles of Associate Director and Community Ambassador, endorsing them.   Aiden Horne battling against Sholing earlier in the season. (Viv Curtis) The Mortgage Decisions Stadium has been a bit of a fortress for Paul Doswell's team and only leaders Walton & Hersham and Basingstoke have emerged with all Three points during this present campaign. Whilst our realistic fate was being sealed with Tuesday night's loss to Evesham, Sholing were playing out a 0-0 draw at Hanwell.   Despite survival being extinguished , Asa Hall’s men will remain focused on playing with pride and professionalism, in taking each game as it comes. Journeys to Bracknell and Basingstoke still await, but despite both of those matches being challenging, this one on paper is the most daunting trip.   The young squad should see this as testing themselves against one of the strongest outfits in this division and there should still be both team and personal targets to achieve during the remainder of this season.    Ability and potential has never been in question, but game management and knowhow is something that is acquired. Many players will be better equipped for the next stage of their senior careers, through this experience.   Sholing manager Doswell is a shrewd operator in non league terms and has a strong CV. Long successful spells with Sutton United and Havant & Waterlooville highlight this. It was always going to be hard to follow heavily decorated manager Dave Diaper who oversaw a 2014 FA Vase win for the Boatmen and multiple promotions, but he has not disappointed.   Former Ex Southampton pro Michael Folivi who has a Premier League appearance to his name whilst at Watford, is a serial goalscorer in this division. His record stands at ; 37 goals from 57 games. His EFL career also included stints at Coventry City, AFC Wimbledon and Colchester United.   The pacy and quickfooted Folivi  also brings plenty of top non league pedigree too. Boreham Wood, Chelmsford City, Farnborough, Chesham, Enfield and Hemel Hempstead are other clubs that he has represented.   The Boatmens’ rise through the leagues has coincided with a loyalty to the club and this will be striker Dan Mason's Fourteenth campaign. The 33 year old surpassed 300 goals for our hosts in August and has a penchant for the spectacular. The 33 yr old is regarded as a living legend by the team’s supporters.   Tommy Lee-Higgs is Portsmouth born, but emerged as a youth prospect at Southampton. The young forward is a skillful technician and had non league experience with; Gosport, Bognor Regis and Salisbury ahead of signing for Farnborough who are his parent club.   Midfielder schemer, the creative and gifted 30 yr old James Hesketh spent Fifteen years with Southampton. Joining their football programme at the age of Six and progressing his way through the academy to the first team. Making his Premier League debut as a substitute against Manchester United, he also started Saints’ next game away at Burnley.   Additionally playing for MK Dons, Burton Albion, Lincoln City and Crawley Town as a loanee during his stay at Southampton, Hesketh was released in 2021 and Eastleigh was his next destination. He played 54 national League games there, prior to signing for Sholing in the 2023/24 season.   Veteran midfielder and first team coach Byron Mason along with his aforementioned brother Dan are uncles to Chelsea and England player Levi Colwill. The 39 yr old is an inspirational figure for the Boatmen and a very good footballer. His playing days began for Vosper Thornycroft in the 2005/06 season who became Sholing in 2010.   Apart from a short spell with Gosport Borough, the elder Mason has been a mainstay of the club and is very much a leader, whether in the dressing room or on the field of play. He is beyond 700 games for his team.   Blaise Riley-Snow played north of the border for Raith Rovers, after his formative years were spent at Harefield United. The 27 old returned south of the border and signed for Hendon in the 2023/24 season. An imposing presence and tidy in possession, the powerful midfielder is in his second campaign with our hosts.   Still only 23, talented midfielder Reece Wylie has made Sholing his home this term and last season. Emerging through Aldershot's academy Wylie has extensive experience in the non league and has gone on to wear the colours of Hartley Wintney, Hungerford and Gosport Borough. He was an early bloomer.   Central midfielder or central defender Jake McCarthy has a huge pedigree in non league terms. The 29 yr old has found the net on no fewer than 14 times, whilst in league action for his new team. He started this campaign at Weymouth, where for so long he was a big player.    The cultured McCarthy also shone for Havant & Waterlooville. Playing the majority of his football in the high echelons of the Non League pyramid. The ex Bournemouth academy prospect also had a stint with Poole.   The all-action Brad Targett, is another example of the continuity in the Hampshire side's squad. The 24 year old attacking player has been a key player for the Boatmen’, first pulling on his club's shirt in the 2017/18 season.   Defender Harry Taylor has been integral to Sholing for the last Two terms and the commanding Taylor was formerly with Met Police, Hartley & Wintney and his early foray's into senior football were with Aldershot.   Versatile defender Sam Magri, 32 was a young Pro at; Portsmouth, QPR and Crystal Palace. With a wealth of experience playing for top top non league outfits, the sought after Magri arrived at the Mortgage Decisions Stadium earlier in the season from Bracknell.   Playing his part in Totton’s promotion season, Magris’s CV is an impressive read. Dover, Ebbsfleet, Havant & Waterlooville and Gosport Borough and Bogor Regis are the other clubs that the classy defender has represented.   Joe Rabbetts who is a left sided defender was part of Aldershot's production line and the accomplished 23 yr old was part of their senior squad from 2018 to 2022. He then joined Dartford and Dorking Wanderers. His signature was captured last term and he is a regular in the side.   Currently in possession of the gloves is Jack Turner. The 33 yr old is on loan from Farnborough and played professionally for AFC Wimbledon on Seven occasions as a young keeper.    An ever-present for Farnborough In the previous Three campaigns, he joined his parent club during the 2021/22 season and has made over 200 appearances for them. Before that he amassed untold experience in lengthy spells with Slough and Staines.   Unfortunately a little injury list has started to grow for the Yellows’ and they will be hoping for good news on that front, ahead of this game. It's another huge challenge on Friday and I'm sure the lads will be giving their all.

Match Report Tuesday March 31st At The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium   Tiverton Town 1 Stephens 16 Evesham United 2 Dunbar 72   Wright 81 Att: 142   Darren Holmes Tonight saw us realistically bid farewell to Southern League Premier South, as a vastly inferior goal difference compared to Yate, whose 39 points is all we can reach with wins in all seven of our remaining games, literally condemned us to the drop.    Having to make up 41 goals on Yate in 7 games is the equation and Tuesday night was a sad evening for all at the club, as after Nine seasons in this division we will be relegated to division one.   Tiverton were not too far away from holding onto a lead that was taken in the sixteenth minute and they were dogged in trying to protect it. Putting this result into context they were also dealt two significant injury blows, with both Dean Moxey in the first half and Asa Hall early in the second half being replaced.   The team that finished Saturday's encouraging win against Hungerford started this game against Evesham who were perched just above the relegation places, before kick off. The enforced change that saw Liam Cartwright unable to continue at half time on Saturday, meant fellow midfielder Jack Kennell started.   In the first couple of minutes, it was all too easy for Evesham as little or no pressure was applied as the visitors’ surged forward and Ross got down well to save an unchallenged shot from the edge of the box. He was right in telling the Yellows’ to, ‘wake up’.   The Robins’ continued to be in the ascendancy and timely interceptions from Dean Moxey and decisive clearances from him and others, prevented us going a goal down early. Then a goal line block from Hall in the sixth minute, vitally kept the visitors well drilled shot out.   John Ross demonstrated good agility when flinging himself low down to his right corner, to keep the game goalless, just beyond the Ten minute mark and Tivvy were living a charmed life.   The Yellows’ found a little bit of respite and although not totally convincing, they started to knit some passes together. Although it was still against the run of play that they out of the blue went in front.   Karim Coulibaly found Toby Stephens with plenty of room to either continue his run or take aim. He chose the latter and  unleashed a shot that dipped into the net from about 30 yards out. An excellent technical strike and it was 1-0 to Tiverton, after 16 minutes.   Evesham were soon back on the front foot and a combination of John Ross's busy gloves and the notable defensive positioning, organisation and wise distribution from Moxey kept our lead intact.   Another very good reaction save as the away side laid siege to our goal, from Ross down to the foot of his post in the 24th minute and then a superb double save just prior to the half-hour mark, foiled Evesham as they ramped up the pressure.   Unfortunately though, our backs to the wall defending resulted in an early casualty for Asa Hall's men, when Moxey signalled to the bench. Following treatment from Tony Cornish, his evening was deemed over.   This prompted the introduction of ex Willand man Douglas Camillo and a change in formation, as Wood and full backs Koerner and Wilkins lined up in a tight Three. Hall dropping a little deeper, for extra security.   Captain Matt Wood away to Evesham earlier in the season. (Viv Curtis) Good application as a collective and towering headers won by Wood and Hall kept the Robins’ at bay. Tivvy's approach play was promising, with Stephens, Coulibaly and Horne linking well, but we rarely breached Evesham's defensive line.   An offside flag wasn't forthcoming when in the 37th minute, a searching ball over the top saw an Evesham attacker in the clear, out on our right channel. His effort though was a weak one that Ross was equal to, but the danger wasn’t over and a last-ditch goal-saving tackle from Wood came to our rescue.   Before the interval assistant manager Steve Orchard was yellow carded on the bench, after disputing a foul given against Aiden Horne. There were no further scares in the final minutes of the half and the Yellows’ went back to the dressing room, holding onto their slender lead.   A less dramatic opening to the remaining period was still full of honest endeavour from the battling Yellows’, but in the 54th minute they had another setback. Asa Hall left the field injured and on came midfielder George Collins, a former Torquay academy player.   Shortly after that change, there were more heroic’s from Ross. He produced another diving stop, before the ball inadvertently arrived in front of him and he fell on top of it, to nullify the threat of Predatory Robins’ players.   With 60 minutes on the clock, Camillo and Horne combined to good effect, deep into Evesham territory. A questionable waving on of play when Camillo looked to have been clearly brought down, sparked fury from our fans and anger from our players too.   Wellington and Wood then doubled up on a visiting forward in the 63rd minute, with Wood ushering the ball away from danger. A 70th minute substitution saw the hardworking Horne depart and Charlie Wright enter.   The extra physicality of the away side after Hall and Moxey's departures was obvious, but the Yellows’ were sticking manfully to their task. Really good interplay from the freshly introduced Wright along with Camillo and Wellington faltered deep inside Evesham's half, but in the next phase of play the visitors drew level.   Andre Wright flicked the ball on to the onrushing Ethan Dunbar who finished at point blank range. Camillo then nearly regained our lead in the 76th minute. A flowing passing move ending his shot being palmed away was a heartening response.   Corey Koerner was alert and calm under pressure to cover round and clear. This was only momentary relief for Asa Hall's side though as in the 81st minute ex Coventry and West Brom striker Wright slid in at the back post, to turn in Liggett's driven ball across and give his side the lead.   With time running out Corey Koerner's inviting ball round the back of the Robins’ backline was collected by Wright and his cut-back was a good one, however although any kind of connection would probably have evened things up, the ball evaded everyone.   That happened in the 87th minute and despite Nine minutes including additional time remaining then, the final score was 2-1 to Evesham. On Good Friday we are away to Sholing and then our second Easter fixture is on home soil against Devon Rivals Plymouth Parkway.   Tiverton: Ross(gk), Wilkins(85), Wood(c), Moxey(30), Koerner, Hall(54), Kennell, Stephen's, Wellington, Coulibaly, Horne(70) Subs: Camillo(30), Wright(70), Sloane(85), G.Collins(54)

Match Preview  Tiverton Town v Evesham United Tuesday March 31st 7.45pm Kick Off At The Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium   Aiden Horne scored the opening goal against Hungerford last time out, embracing U18 Karim Coulibaly, who assisted Horne. (Viv Curtis) The Yellows’ intense home schedule of fixtures concludes on Tuesday night when they entertain Evesham. A very good win against Hungerford on Saturday lifted the spirits a little and like Hungerford, our visitors’ are not yet out of the woods, relegation-wise.   Tiverton have been measuring themselves against teams in the Southern League Premier South throughout this season and have often come up short. There have been at least Five or Six times during this campaign, when our realistic hopes of winning some games have been over at half time.   The reverse fixture was one of those occasions. In a brutal opening period in Worcestershire the Yellows’ conceded a goal with less than a minute played and Three unanswered goals before we reached the break. Dean Moxey then also went off injured, to cap a miserable afternoon, which ended 5-0 to the Robins’.   The probability of Evesham joining us as candidates for the drop at that point looked slim. For a long time they were mid-table and for a while a little higher. Points are now at a premium for Bristol born manager Mike Ford and his side. They themselves were soundly beaten 6-1 at Havant & Waterlooville, on Saturday.   The Robins’ have struggled away from home and although they have accumulated a sizeable number of draws, their last victory came at Bracknell at the backend of September. Although with their league status hanging in the balance, I'm sure they will be looking to address this on Tuesday evening.   If the Yellows’ need a template for the required standard in this division then they would be better served using the Hungerford or Walton & Hersham models , in contrast to the Basingstoke and Gloucester ones.    Mike Ford is a vastly experienced football man, equally as a player and as a manager. He had a notable playing career, making just shy of 500 EFL appearances. Primarily a defender, but utilised in numerous positions, Ford captained and made 290 appearances for Oxford United and played 196 times for Cardiff City.   His managerial career saw him have Two caretaker-manager stints at Oxford United and he was also an assistant manager with the U's. He then took over the reins at Oxford City for Five seasons, prior to a lengthy spell with former league rivals of our’s Banbury. 60 year old Ford has been in charge at Evesham since 2022.   Levi Steele is Evesham's main source of goals, with Ten. His importance for the visitors in their last three campaigns shouldn't be underplayed. In 101 games for the Worcester side, he has netted 48 times. The talented striker previously played against us for North Leigh, but was absent at the weekend.   Strike partner Andre Wright has Eight goals to his name in this division this term, but the powerful marksman often unselfishly sets others up and can be a real handful. Wright has undoubted pedigree and made West Brom's premier league squads in both 2016/17 and 2017/18, following an impressive youth career with the Baggies.   He made Eleven EFL appearances on loan from West Brom for Coventry during that time and for Torquay and Kidderminster Harriers in the National League. The much travelled 29 yr old  has also played in the Scottish championship for Ayr United and in the League of Ireland Premier Division for Sligo and Bohemians.    Wright had further spells with Kidderminster and Torquay. His other clubs include; Hereford, Nuneaton, Gloucester, Telford and Kettering.    Other forward options are Kai Churchley and Ethan Dunbar. Churchley who was with Tiverton for some of last term on loan from Bristol City, was on his release from the Championship side snapped up by Merthyr. After a lack of game time there, he was loaned to Evesham and the cultured Churchley has featured heavily for them, this term.   Dunbar moved to the Robins’ in the close season from the emerging Bishops Cleave side, in the league below. Earlier in his Senior career he was with Slimbridge. He has impressed at this level and has found the net seven times.   The gifted Amer Awadh is a player who has worked with Manager Ford previously in his senior career, when a Banbury player. A very skilful runner with a low centre of gravity, he is difficult to stop in pockets of space. A fan favourite formerly of North Leigh, who he starred for against us.   22 yr old Josh Barlow has been an integral part of Evesham's line up in recent seasons. The cultured and creative Barlow is a midfield regular. An academy player at Shrewsbury, he progressed through to the first team and made Four appearances for them. He is highly thought of at the club.   Brandon Liggett is a 19 year old who attracted plenty of attention when released by Cheltenham. Signing for Evesham, whilst on loan from the pro club he had spells with; Salisbury, Gloucester, Swindon Supermarine and Cinderford. A technical performer, he has impressed.   Fellow midfielder Aaron Heap, came through the youth system at Oxford United and went on to make some senior appearances for them. The 25 yr old is experienced in this standard of football and a talented all round footballer, he has played over 100 games for Evesham. North Leigh and Banbury were other ports of call.   Owen Foye is a versatile Swindon Town loanee. The 19 yr old utility player appears to have a very promising future ahead of him. The adaptable Foye can be employed in defence or in midfield and had a previous Ioan period at Swindon Supermarine.   Picked up following Swindon Supermarine's relegation, the solidly built and commanding centre back Ioan Richards is an important part of the Robin's’ defensive unit. A good leader on the pitch, Richards is another to have been part of Cheltenham's academy. Stints with Taunton and Yate came earlier in his Senior career.   Liam Hutt was a young Pro with Swindon Town and had a loan period with Weymouth last term. The defender was let go by Swindon and Evesham were quick to gain his registration for this campaign.   Right Back Jyrel Bojang signed for the visitors after coming to their attention playing for local Hellenic league team Pershore Town. He is in his second season with the Worcestershire team and has fitted in nicely.   Seasoned goalkeeper Alex Harris who is a talented Gloveman, was a first choice last term and this. Harris whose formative years were spent in Newport County’s Academy is 33 and has represented a number of established non league clubs including; Hereford, Gloucester and Merthyr. Prior to Evesham he was at Cirencester.   Can Asa Hall's young team build on Saturday's success? Let's get down to the ground and support the lads on Tuesday.