Tom Bailey

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Yeovil Town secured a hard-earned point against top-of-the-table Rochdale, thanks to a first half equaliser from Finn Cousin-Dawson. The defender’s excellent header cancelled out an Aidan Barlow strike in a frantic first 15 minutes.

The Glovers came out firing in the second half, before Aaron Jarvis was dismissed for a heavy challenge on Kyron Gordon; however the Green and Whites held on for a valuable point against tough opposition.

First half

The Glovers had to rotate thanks to injuries, suspensions and midweek action, as Billy Rowley made three changes ahead of Saturday’s game – Ryan Jones, the suspended Kyle Ferguson and Terrell Works all dropped out of the starting XI in favour of James Daly, Troy Perrett and Tahvon Campbell.
The first action of note came just four minutes in, as a very soft free kick was given against Finn Cousin-Dawson, however it was headed away well by captain Jake Wannell.
Twelve minutes in though, Rochdale took the lead, as an incisive through ball from Mani Dieseruvwe found Aidan BARLOW; the Yeovil defence all called for offside, but the flag stayed down as the Rochdale forward slotted home.
Just three minutes later, Yeovil found themselves level though – a free kick swung in from thirty yards out found the head of Finn COUSIN-DAWSON on the edge of the box – his header looped over the top of young Oliver Whatmuff, and nestled in the back of the net – 1-1 before quarter of an hour, game on!
The Glovers celebrate with Finn Cousin-Dawson.
This spurred the hosts on, with a flurry of activity inside the Rochdale half following, shots from Luke McCormick and Troy Perrett well blocked by the boys in blue. A lull in any meaningful action came, before incisive linkup play between the Cardiff contingency Dakarai Mafico and Troy Perrett almost led to another goal for the Green and Whites.
The rest of the half belonged to Rochdale, as they went from side to side, trying to find a way through the stubborn setup of Yeovil, the only real breakthrough they had was a curled shot whizzing past Jed Ward’s left post from Tarryn Allarakhia.

Half time: Yeovil Town 1 Rochdale 1

Second half

Before the action got underway, there were substitutions for both sides; Rochdale swapped Liam Hogan and Jake Burger for Ethan Ebanks-Landell and Devante Rodney, while Joy Mukena made way for Wycombe loanee Declan Skura to make his YTFC debut.

Right from the whistle, Yeovil were on the front foot – shots from Luke McCormick and Tahvon Campbell looked to threaten the Rochdale goal, but both were stopped well. James Daly quite literally put his foot through the ball moments later, with the referee halting play for a replacement.

Cries of MA-FI-CO-CO rang out from the Thatchers terrace just after the fifty minute mark, as he intercepted a Rochdale attack on the edge of his own box, then ran almost the length of the pitch, before being halted by Ebanks-Landell. While this didn’t result in a chance for Yeovil, I was so amazed that I had to include it!

A few heart-in-mouth moments followed around the Yeovil goal, with Mafico having a clearance blocked, and a few corners for Rochdale ultimately leading to nothing.

The next flashpoint came just ten minutes after Aaron Jarvis was introduced, and it involved… Aaron Jarvis. The former Torquay forward shoulder barged Kyron Gordon, and received a straight red card for it… down to 10 men, with twenty minutes to go, the Glovers had it all to do.

75 minutes in, and Rochdale had another chance, this time from a corner – the ball swung towards the back of the six yard box, Ethan Ebanks-Landell chested it down but couldn’t keep it under control, another sigh of relief swept across Huish Park.

A shot from distance from Casey Pettit stung the fingers of Jed Ward as he turned the ball past the post for another ‘Dale corner, before another shot a few minutes later cannoned into the visiting crowd. Pettit had another go soon after, but it was sliced wide for another goal kick.

If fingernails hadn’t been shredded enough already, the fourth official raised for six minutes of injury time; Devante Rodney had a free header from about eight yards out but it floated over the bar.

Another Casey Pettit shot was hit from the edge of the box, but Jed Ward dived to his right and caught it expertly as the minutes ticked down into seconds… and FINALLY, the full time whistle blew! Top of the league… you know the rest.

It’s Luke McCormick’s world, we’re just living in it.

Full time: Yeovil Town 1 Rochdale 1

Match Details

Venue: Huish Park
Date: Saturday 14th February, 3pm kick-off

Competition: Enterprise National League

Scorers: Aidan Barlow, 12 (0-1); Finn Cousin-Dawson, 15 (1-1)

Pitch: Looking very green considering the rain we’ve had over the last few weeks!

Conditions: Dry and fresh

Attendance: 3,161 (272 away supporters)

Bookings:
Yeovil Town: Aaron Jarvis (69 – OFF)
Rochdale: 

Referee: Niall Smith

Yeovil Town (3-4-2-1)

Substitutes: Declan Skura (for Joy Mukena, 45), Aaron Jarvis (for Tahvon Campbell, 59), Harvey Greenslade (for Troy Perrett, 67)

Rochdale: Oliver Whatmuff, Kyron Gordon, Ryan East, Liam Hogan (for Ethan Ebanks-Landell, 45), Tarryn Allarakhia (for Dan Moss, 65), Mani Dieseruvwe (for Ian Henderson, 65), Tobi Adebayo-Rowling, Casey Pettit, Aidan Barlow (for Joe Pritchard, 80), Jake Burger (for Devante Rodney, 45), Callum Perry

Substitutes (not used): Bryce Hosannah, Ed Francis

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Yeovil Town progressed into the Fifth Round of the FA Trophy following yet more penalty heroics from Jed Ward, as they won 3-1 on penalties over Southern Premier Division Central side Alvechurch.

The Glovers appeared to be the dominant side in the first half, before a red card for Brett McGavin threatened to derail the Glovers’ hard work. Alvechurch grew into the game but both sides remained level at half-time.

The second half provided even more entertainment, but it remained goalless, with both sides  searching for a winner but unable to find that final bit of quality.

First half

Alvechurch took kickoff, but the first chance of the game came just three minutes into the game, as a good cross from James Daly found the head of Josh Sims; he connected well with the ball, but it landed safely in the arms of opposition ‘keeper Jenson Kilroy.

Moments later, a nice ball from Brett McGavin found Harvey Greenslade on the left wing, he cut past his man with ease before having a shot on goal blocked by Jessy Bavanganga. Positive signs from the Glovers as they looked to stamp their authority on the game early on.

Both sides looked to get themselves comfortable into the game, before a high boot from McGavin earned himself a spot in the referee’s book – Elliott Swallow had used his whistle with liberty within the first ten minutes, awarding the Glovers two soft free kicks, to set the scene for a stop-start affair.

11 minutes in, and it was another chance for Yeovil, as a Brett McGavin free kick floated towards the back of the six yard box; Aaron Jarvis won the header, nodding it towards Greenslade but his header went over the bar.

From the goal kick, Alvechurch enjoyed a rare foray into the Yeovil half, showing what they were capable of, their spell of possession ending with an offside flag against Kieran Wakefield. The Glovers made their way downfield from the free kick, earning a corner which tested the visiting ‘keeper once again via the head of Kyle Ferguson.

An incisive through ball from Obadeyi almost found an Alvechurch striker, but it trickled to Jed Ward who fumbled his collection. Wakefield almost pounced on the opportunity but Ward recovered to parry the shot for a corner.

As 20 minutes came and went, Yeovil had their first clear cut chance of the game as Luke McCormick fed a lovely ball through for Josh Sims, but an excellent recovering run from Bavanganga just about blocked the number 19’s shot on goal.

The Glovers continued to probe, as James Daly came down the right hand side and approached the touchline just inside the box, his cross across goal found the left boot of Luke McCormick but he was off balance, sending the ball out for a goal kick.

24 minutes in, and Brett McGavin stretched for a heavy touch and tackled the number 12 of Will Merrett; the referee felt it was grounds for dismissal, and the former Torquay man left the field shaking his head. The sending off led to Yeovil’s first substitution of the game, as Josh Tobin entered play to fill the gap in the middle of the field, replacing Harvey

Following the restart, Luke McCormick came down the right hand side and laid off a ball for Kyle Ferguson to cross in; the cross found an Alvechurch defender, who cleared back to the Scot and proceeded to receive a high boot from another visiting player inside the penalty box; the referee decided to wave play on…

37 minutes in, Joe Willis received Alvechurch’s first yellow card of the game for a heavy challenge on Josh Tobin; the Yeovil fans wanted more for later challenges committed by the opposition, but just the one yellow was dished out.

Lovely play from Kyle Ferguson and James Daly down the right hand side allowed debutant Dakarai Mafico to surge forwards; the 19 year old burst past three defenders into the box, before floating a cross into the six yard area. The ball was cleared and fell to Josh Tobin on the edge of the box, but his shot flew over the bar.

A strong challenge from Kieran Wakefield on Tobin followed a few minutes later, earning himself a spot in the referee’s notebook and Yeovil a free kick. Before the resulting kick was taken, Alvechurch manager Kyle Storer was also booked, assumedly for his reaction to the booking to his attacker.

The free kick floated towards the back of the box, then ping-ponged around the six yard area but Alvechurch lived to fight another day; the visitors then counter-attacked down the left, switching play to the right but the shot from Obadeyi was tame and easy enough for Jed Ward to stop.

Just as the 45th minute struck, Yeovil had yet another good chance, as Aaron Jarvis played a fantastic ball through for Luke McCormick, but in uncharacteristic fashion, the number 8’s shot whizzed past the post.

Alvechurch had a couple of half chances before Yeovil made their way down the other end for a couple of corners but neither resulted in anything for the Glovers.

Half time: Yeovil Town 0 Alvechurch 0

Second half

The first chance of the second half fell to Alvechurch, as they won a header at the back post from a corner, but the referee blew for a free kick to Yeovil.

Yeovil continued to grow into the game and show why they were the National League side, stopping any opposition attacks with ease, and Jarvis in particular demonstrated his physicality in an impressive battle with Bavanganga, however no clear cut chances were created.

55 minutes in, and Josh Sims chested down a great ball from the Yeovil defence, coming centrally and working his way to the edge of the box; he was then deemed to have fouled Will Merrett, much to the derision of the Thatchers terrace.

Alvechurch had a good chance from a poor free kick conceded by Jake Wannell, as Tope Obadeyi opted to blast a shot from 25 yards out, his shot stung the palms of Jed Ward and kept the Glovers in the game.

Another flashpoint came just outside the Alvechurch box, as McCormick and Bavanganga both went for a 50/50, and the referee waved it away; Alvechurch went on the counter and drew a foul from James Daly, who ended up in the referee’s notebook.

Following the introduction of Michee Efete, Alvechurch continued to impress and frustrate, but Yeovil made themselves another chance, as McCormick found Mafico in some space on the edge of the box, he cut onto his weaker foot and took the shot but it was deflected and saved by multiple yellow shirts, giving the Glovers a corner.

Yeovil felt they should’ve had a penalty 73 minutes in, as a ball rolled up the body and onto the arm of Josh Dugmore, but the referee didn’t see it and waved play on.

78 minutes on the clock, and Yeovil found themselves frustrated once again, as a great ball from Mafico found Josh Sims, he cut inside and drilled a low shot, but it was well saved by Kilroy, Jarvis collected the rebound but his shot was blocked for a corner.

More subs took place, including the seemingly unplanned introduction of Jacob Maddox for an injured Josh Sims; the former Forest Green man was last seen at Rochdale last January. Both sides looked to go for the win, as chances came at either end without success.

The full time whistle blew, and in familiar circumstances, it’s penalties once again.

Full time: Yeovil Town 0 Alvechurch 0

Here’s how the penalties went…..

  • Yeovil Town – Tahvon Campbell – SCORED (1-0)
  • Alvechurch – Tope Obadeyi – SAVED by Jed Ward (1-0)
  • Yeovil Town – Luke McCormick – SCORED (2-0)
  • Alvechurch – Joe Willis – SAVED by Jed Ward (2-0)
  • Yeovil Town – Dakarai Mafico – SCORED (3-0)
  • Alvechurch – Szhem Whyte-Hall –  SCORED (3-1)
  • Yeovil Town – Finn Cousin-Dawson – SAVED by Jenson Kilroy (3-1)
  • Alvechurch – Ethan Sephton – SAVED by Jed Ward (3-1)

Match Details

Venue: Huish Park
Date: Tuesday 3rd January, 3.00pm kick-off

Competition: Isuzu FA Trophy Fourth Round

Scorers: 

Pitch: Very soft and slippery
Conditions: Fresh… but dry

Attendance: 1,870 (80 away supporters)

Bookings:
Yeovil Town: Brett McGavin 8, James Daly 64
Alvechurch: Joe Willis 37, Kieran Wakefield 41

Sendings Off:

Yeovil Town: Brett McGavin ’24

Referee: Elliott Swallow

Yeovil Town (3-4-1-2)

Substitutes: Josh Tobin (for Harvey Greenslade, 26), Michee Efete (for James Daly 68), Tahvon Campbell (for Aaron Jarvis 81), Jacob Maddox (for Josh Sims 81)

Braintree Town: Jenson Kilroy, Josh Dugmore, Ethan Sephton, Sam Perry, Joe Willis, Jonny Ngandu, Tope Obadeyi, Will Merrett, Callum Sullivan (for Elliott Dugan 82), Kieran Wakefield (for Szhem Whyte-Hall 65), Jessy Bavanganga

Substitutes (not used): Redman Evans, Krystian Pearce, Dieter Schwarm, Nile Timson, Jack Sang

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Green and White Radio’s Tom Bailey was in the stands on Saturday, as Yeovil Town defeated Maidstone United on penalties to progress in the FA Trophy. Here are his conclusions from the victory.

Cup progression at last!

For the first time since the FA Cup journey to Wrexham during the title season in 2023/24, Yeovil Town have progressed in a cup competition!

Fans have been clamouring for a cup run of some kind, and while we have no idea where we may go on this run, it’s giving us all some further hope, and further reason to buy-in to the Rowley regime.

Billy Rowley watches on | Pic by Gary Brown

Substitutions were played to perfection

Okay, maybe not the Michee Efete introduction, as that was clearly unplanned following the injury to Alex Whittle (he still played very well) – but Tahvon Campbell being brought on for a booked Aaron Jarvis, who seemed on a collision course for a red card on Saturday, was the smart call to keep 11 men on the field.

Clearly bringing on Josh Tobin was a great move, given he scored the goal that almost put Yeovil in the hat within 90 minutes, while Andrew Oluwabori gave Maidstone defenders some extra problems to handle on the right hand side.

All in all, Rowley and Simpson read the game well, and responded accordingly; proactive subs to finish the stubborn opposition off is so refreshing to see, long may it continue!

Michee Efete | Pic by Gary Brown

Leo Ramirez-Espain is real… and he’s good!

I think I was among many in raising my eyebrows when I saw Leo Ramirez-Espain’s name in the starting XI for Saturday’s game.

None of us have had any idea on how good (or bad) he may be, considering he’s only made two benches since he joined on loan from Watford in November.

As it turns out, we have another talented midfield option to add to our rotation, as he moved the ball nicely throughout his hour on the field, linking up with McGavin effortlessly.

Knowing we have McGavin, McCormick, Cousin-Dawson, Jolliffe, Tobin and Ramirez-Espain, with Cousin-Dawson as another option if required, is a great sign of the strength in depth we possess in midfield now!

Leo Ramirez-Espain on his debut. Picture courtesy of Tom Bailey.

Penalty shootout? Never in doubt…

Okay, I say this in jest, of course when the final whistle blew, every Yeovil fan naturally feared the worst, considering our recent history with penalties – the Campbell miss at Morecambe, the losses to Taunton and Needham Market to name but a few… and yet, every single player stepped up when it mattered most.

Most plaudits deservedly went to Jed Ward, who made two fantastic stops to give Yeovil the advantage, but all four takers (Brett McGavin, Luke McCormick, Tahvon Campbell and Andrew Oluwabori) deserve their flowers too for their courage to step up, and coolly slot home four spot kicks.

Jed Ward saves | Pic by Gary Brown

Who do we want next?

It’s a great feeling to not dread whatever is next, isn’t it?!

Nearly half of the National League sides have already been knocked out, and I’d fancy us against most opposition with the way things are going thus far with Rowley and co.

With the draw taking place on Monday evening, Yeovil fans will be sat eagerly anticipating whoever is drawn against the Glovers!

Josh Tobin celebrates with the fans | Pic by Gary Brown

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Luke McCormick secured Yeovil’s first win since late September, and the first win of the Billy Rowley era following his double in front of the Thatchers terrace as Yeovil Town defeated Boston United at Huish Park.

The Glovers looked nervy in the opening 15-20 minutes or so, making mistakes at the back that Boston looked to punish, but to no effect. The hosts grew into the game, showing glimpses of what life could be like under the new management team, but the game remained goalless at half-time.

Yeovil came out all guns blazing in the second half, and they were rewarded when McCormick scored his first of the game not long after the game got back underway. The hosts continued to push for their second, and found their goal when McCormick buried the second following a loose ball from a defensive error by Boston.

The visitors bagged a consolation, but it wasn’t enough as the Glovers saw out an impressive win to kick off the Rowley era in style.

First half

The visitors got things underway, as they kicked towards the Thatcher’s End for the first 45 minutes, and just 90 seconds in, first shot in anger was taken as Lenell John-Lewis found space towards the back post, his shot lead to nothing though as he was flagged offside.

Yeovil’s new high line was immediately noticeable, trying to catch the Pilgrims with offside traps and keeping patient with possession. A lovely turn from Tahvon Campbell almost released James Daly into space but the tricky number 11’s touch was too heavy, sending the game back into a back and forth affair.

Campbell once again was involved just minutes later, receiving the ball from Josh Sims inside the box, but his touch let him down and Boston cleared their lines, eventually winning a free kick just inside their own half.

Billy Rowley’s new ideas were evident, as a high press allowed the visitors to counter attack, Dylan Hill’s poor touch allowing Kyle Ferguson to recover in time to block his shot for a throw-in.

A sequence of poor passes almost allowed Boston a chance, but the Glovers scrambled to block any opportunities, Daly winning a free kick that led to nothing.

Josh Sims. Picture courtesy of Gary Brown.

The ten-minute mark came and went, with both sides looking to move forwards with little success, however Yeovil looked the stronger of the two sides, some intricate patterns between Daly and Campbell once again almost unlocking the Boston defence.

A tidy set-piece just inside the Yeovil half almost led to an opportunity for the visitors, patiently working their way forwards but each and every shot was closed down well by a green and white body, Yeovil eventually clearing their lines and re-setting their shape.

Just as twenty minutes hit the clock, Yeovil had another positive spell, Kyle Ferguson finding Sims with a long ball down the right hand side, eventually leading to a throw-in. The Glovers enjoyed a sustained spell of pressure outside the Boston box, a succession of crosses across the box unable to find a Yeovil player, before Brett McGavin snatched at a loose ball outside the box, catapulting it into the top field.

Boston enjoyed possession for the next five minutes or so, but were unable to fashion any chances for themselves. A long ball over to the right hand side for James Daly almost led to something, but he fouled Matty Carson in the process, ending the move.

Yeovil’s first real chance of the game came 27 minutes in, Josh Sims being released down the right hand side and getting the better of Matty Carson, his cross into the box almost found Tahvon Campbell but was cleared by the visitors, James Plant’s shot was well saved though by Killian Barrett.

The resulting corner allowed Yeovil to continue applying pressure, but the Pilgrims’ defence was resolute, and after multiple crosses and shifts in direction, the ball was cleared for a Yeovil throw in.

Just before the half hour mark, a free kick was swung in from the left hand side, finding the head of Kyle Ferguson; his header looped high into the sky and was on target, but it was a simple enough save for the Boston ‘keeper.

A few minutes later, Boston almost found the back of the net; a tidy ball from John-Lewis made its way to Frankie Maguire, who was flagged offside before missing a peach of a chance from just outside the six yard box.

Yeovil made their way down the left hand side with a good bit of link up play between McCormick and Campbell, the number 8’s cross looped towards the back of the box; Daly won the header, but Boston once again cleared their lines well.

Another short free kick from Boston led to another chance for the visitors soon after, former Glover Marcel Lavinier danced his way down the right hand side into the box, but his cross was cleared back into his path, the following header went over the bar leading to a Yeovil goal kick.

Soon after, Josh Sims found his way into the referee’s book for a seemingly innocuous challenge, leading to another Boston free kick that led to nothing.

Campbell found himself involved in positive play once again just after the forty minute mark, his cute flick behind his legs almost allowing Daly into the box unchallenged, but Boston just about recovered possession.

Kyle Ferguson was back in the starting XI. Picture courtesy of Gary Brown.

Soon after, a ball from Max Jolliffe found Campbell, who lost his footing but still managed to prod a ball through to Luke McCormick, his shot was well blocked by the Boston defence for another corner, which was much less successful than our previous efforts.

The final chance of a high-energy first half fell to Boston, as a soft free kick was given in their favour against Kyle Ferguson. Boston’s number 10 whipped the ball into the danger zone but Yeovil’s defence dealt with it well once again, Josh Sims clearing for a throw in. From the throw, the ball fell to Adam Crowther, who’s fierce shot was tipped over the bar well by Jed Ward, leaving both sides headed down the tunnel goalless at half time.

Half time: Yeovil Town 0 Boston United 0

Second half

The hosts got us underway for the second half, and immediately went on the attack, James Plant causing Lavinier and Teale to crash into each other, working some space for a cross that drifted over everybody, but the intention was made clear from the off that Yeovil weren’t going to lift their foot off the gas.

Another ball through for McCormick almost allowed Yeovil a chance, but it was well dealt with by Adam Crowther. Boston eventually sent the ball downfield, however it ended up straight in the arms of Jed Ward.

Yeovil had another chance soon after, as Brett McGavin carried the ball a good forty yards before releasing Plant down the left hand side; the Port Vale loanee worked his way into the box, before squaring it for McCormick, who miscommunicated with McGavin and the chance went begging.

The Glovers continued on the front foot though, with another dangerous looking cross coming in, this time from the right side of play, half-time substitute Michee Efete almost finding the head of James Daly.

Boston found themselves scrambling once again, as a well weighted ball through for Tahvon Campbell forced Killian Barrett to clear, only for the Yeovil frontman to block his clearance. Unfortunately, no Yeovil bodies were able to capitalise, but the first five minutes were almost entirely in Yeovil’s favour (yes, all of that happened in five minutes!)

Boston whipped a good cross in from the left hand side soon after, but it was an easy collection from Jed Ward to get the Glovers on their way once again.

Luke McCormick. Picture courtesy of Gary Brown.

And with 53 minutes on the clock, Yeovil finally had their just rewards, as Michee Efete came down the right hand side following a great ball to him. He charged with intent towards the box, his cross cleared just about by the Boston defence, but it fell to Luke McCORMICK to bury it in the back of the net for the opening goal of the Billy Rowley era.

Yeovil were almost in again just a few minutes later, as a ball was dinked over Barrett by James Daly, but Tahvon Campbell couldn’t quite get on the end of it, Boston were hanging on by a thread…

The visitors won a free kick inside the Yeovil half but wasted their chance, as the Glovers barrelled forwards once again – James Plant almost released McCormick, but the visiting defence once again scrambled back to deal with the threat. Incisive balls for Campbell were slightly mistimed, but the green and whites were purring with nearly an hour on the clock.

Boston lashed an effort over the bar before normal service was resumed, Campbell once again involved in positive linkup among the front line, before James Daly won a free kick just inside the Boston half. The ball forwards troubled the amber and black back line, with Morgan Williams laying the ball off for Jake Wannell, his shot cannoned into the wall of Boston bodies and away from danger.

A low driven shot was well collected by Jed Ward soon after, and in amongst all the action, former Glover Jordy Hiwula entered play as Boston’s first substitute.

Marcel Lavinier and James Plant had a brilliant battle down Boston’s right hand side, the former Glover winning out just about, but his cross couldn’t find a Boston head, and the Glovers cleared their lines. Soon after, Aaron Jarvis replaced the excellent Tahvon Campbell.

Any positives for the visitors all came from Lavinier, as his through ball troubled the Yeovil defence once more; Jake Wannell had enough about him to see the ball out of play for a Yeovil goal kick though.

Yeovil came forward once again following a free kick, asking further questions of the Boston defence, but the ball was eventually put out of play following a good spell of play around the box.

Jarvis was getting involved once again following his introduction, successfully chasing a lost cause of a ball, before earning a free kick just outside the box on the left hand side for the Glovers, and earning Adam Crowther a booking on his debut for Boston United. The resulting free kick was hammered in by McGavin, but a Boston body headed the ball away from danger.

A double substitution took place for the hosts, as McGavin and Plant gave way to Finn Cousin-Dawson and Harvey Greenslade respectively, before Aaron Jarvis found himself in space on the right hand side this time round. He made himself a yard to work with and put in a good cross, but it was just over the head of Luke McCormick; roles reversed, and we could’ve been celebrating a second…

More involvement for Aaron Jarvis came soon after a Boston free kick, as he earned the Glovers another free kick just five yards inside the Boston half, Daly’s ball was cleared but only into the path of Efete, who’s ball back in towards the box caused panic. Yeovil recycled the ball and almost worked a chance, but the cross from the left floated by everybody for a Boston goal kick.

Soon after Boston made a second substitution, it was a second goal for the Glovers! A free kick from inside the Yeovil half made its way onto the head of Wannell, who found the head of Greenslade, who found the boot of a Boston man. He was pickpocketed by Morgan Williams though, his ball found the number 8 of Luke McCORMICK in space inside the box, and his shot found the bottom right of the net. Two for Yeovil, two for McCormick, and joy spread across Huish Park!

Boston looked to respond following the second goal, but their chance went wide of the post, not troubling Jed Ward.

A series of weak chances came for the visitors, before a poor header from Jake Wannell allowed Sloggett to capitalise, his shot blocked by Williams but not cleared, before the ball bounced and fell to Dylan HILL to get a goal back for the Pilgrims with eight minutes remaining.

Yeovil weren’t down though, as the Thatchers terrace kept singing, and the players came forward once again, Aaron Jarvis’ switch of play unable to find a green and white shirt but still the Glovers looked positive.

Lavinier’s cross-come-shot almost looked to cause more trouble, but Jed Ward collected comfortably to ease supporter’s nerves.

More attacks came down the Boston right hand side from Lavinier, who floated past Daly and McCormick, and almost left Williams and Wannell on the floor, his shot was fortunately wayward, but he looked night and day to what we saw from him in a green shirt last season!

Harvey Greenslade received the ball as Yeovil looked to counter once again, going down inside the centre circle to win a free kick for the hosts, which unfortunately led to nothing. Efete almost danced past three Boston bodies before being brought down, but the referee wanted nothing to do with it, and the Yeovil press continued following a poor ball for Lavinier, as he was hounded by Jarvis and McCormick, the latter eventually winning Yeovil another free kick.

Three minutes into the five added on by the officials, Harvey Greenslade almost worked himself a chance, before ending up penned in the corner by two Boston players, his hard work led to a corner for the Glovers which he celebrated like he’d scored!

From the corner, Boston won the ball back and Greenslade went from the high of the corner to being booked for a sporting foul. The free kick was wasted by their ‘keeper, before Morgan Williams won a free kick following a clash with Marcel Lavinier, fist pumping in front of the Boston fans to rub the salt into the wounds. From the free kick, the referee blew for full time on a frenetic second half, as Yeovil Town secured their first win in eight games!

Full time: Yeovil Town 2 Boston United 1

Match Details

Venue: Huish Park
Date: Saturday 29th November, 3pm kick-off

Competition: National League Premier Division

Scorers: Luke McCormick 53 (1-0), Luke McCormick 79 (2-0), Dylan Hill 85 (2-1)

Pitch: Tidy, slippery and soft

Conditions: Intermittent downpours, very chilly hands…

Attendance: 2,921 (129 away supporters)

Bookings:

Yeovil Town:Morgan Williams 38, Josh Sims 41, Jed Ward 85, Harvey Greenslade 90+4

Boston United: Adam Crowther 69

Referee: Harry Wager

Yeovil Town (3-4-1-2)

Substitutes: Substitutes: Michee Efete (for Josh Sims, 46), Aaron Jarvis (for Tahvon Campbell, 65), Finn Cousin-Dawson (for Brett McGavin, 73), Harvey Greenslade (for James Plant, 73), Dan Ellison (not used), Junior Morias (not used), Matt Gould (not used).

Boston United: Killian Barrett, Matty Carson (for Jordy Hiwula, 60), Oisin Gallagher, Adam Crowther (for Tommy Fogarty, 77), Connor Teale, Greg Sloggett, Jordan Richards, Dylan Hill, Frankie Maguire, Marcel Lavinier, Lenell John-Lewis.
Substitutes (not used): Ben Grist, Deji Sotona, Liam Waldock, Rhys Lovett.

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Two Three wins on the bounce for Yeovil Town. Tom was there for Green and White Radio on Tuesday, here’s what he saw from behind the mic.

Andrew Oluwabori. Wow. Wow wow wow. What a player we’ve got on our hands, even if he isn’t actually ours. The birthday boy ran riot on Tuesday, dancing past players like they were nothing. He reminds me of that kid at school who was so obviously better than everyone else cos he played outside of school too… he’s just mint! If I’m being super critical, his end product still needs a bit of work, but at just 23, there’s still a lot of time for that to develop. Late birthday wishes to you Andrew, and topping it off with a tidy finish was the best way to celebrate!

It’s early days, but we may have been wrong about Dryden. It’s three wins on the spin for the former assistant-come-interim-come-assistant-come-interim coach now, and I’ll be honest, I scoffed when I heard the words “attacking style of football” on the webpage of the statement following Danny Webb’s departure and Dryden’s subsequent appointment. I’m eating my words now, he has managed to turn the ship around very quickly, and employ a brand of football that Yeovil fans will actually want to come and watch! Of course we’re still early into this experiment, but I’m beginning to believe again!

We need to talk about Finn Cousin-Dawson. I want to start this point by stressing that Finn is a fantastic player, I’ve really enjoyed watching him settle into his spell here, and leading the backline last season through an injury crisis was admirable at such a young age. That being said… the “can FCD play in midfield” experiment has run its course for me. I lost count of the amount of times he was caught flat footed and out of position, and he just doesn’t have the awareness to play in that position for me, following a clumsy performance in which he worked his way into the referee’s book. Swap him and Wannell if you’re going to experiment again, but Finn is definitely a defender in my books.

Three in a row! It’s the first time we’ve won three National League games in a row since March 2022 (0-2 vs Dover, 2-1 vs Bromley, 2-0 vs Southend) – that’s a mind-boggling stat for a club the size of Yeovil, and now it’s time to try and make it four on the spin for the first time since September 2019. The performances are beginning to match the results, and I’m starting to feel that familiar tinge of excitement in my belly!

Let’s dare to dream… I know, I know – don’t get too far ahead of yourself Tom. But I think I can safely say that Yeovil fans are tired of not looking forward to anything. Let’s dare to dream, let’s look up the table and feel some kind of optimism now – we’ve got a talented, albeit thin, squad that will surely be strengthened in the coming weeks, a coaching setup packed with experience and new ideas, and a fanbase capable of powering the squad through any situation. Roll on Boreham Wood, it’s gonna be a tough one, but let’s dream of those three points…

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It was a winning end to Richard Dryden’s interim spell as manager of Yeovil Town, as the Glovers defeated Woking 1-0 at Huish Park, which you can read about here! Let’s see what else happened in an eventful day across the league.

We start in the Midlands, where Solihull Moors and Morecambe played out a thrilling 4-4 draw! Jamey Osbourne got the hosts ahead in the 25th minute, before a cracker of a strike just five minutes later from Jack Nolan on his debut for the visitors equalised. Jacob Wakeling grabbed the first of two goals for him on the day in the 43rd minute to send the hosts into half-time with the lead. Into the second half, a quick fire double from Admiral Muskwe pushed the Shrimps into the lead, before Brad Nicholson got the hosts level once again. A thunderbolt from Miguel Azeez had surely bagged the win for the visitors in a crazy encounter, but a 78th minute equaliser for Jacob Wakeling meant both sides had to share the spoils.

York City continued their 100% start to life under Stuart Maynard with an impressive comeback against Braintree Town. A double from debutant Terrell Works handed the hosts a handy advantage after 47 minutes, but goals from Alex Hunt and Joe Grey got the visitors level. A 93rd minute Ollie Pearce penalty secured the win for the Minstermen, as they jumped into the playoff spots with those three points.

A second 3-2 clash took place at Gander Green Lane, as Tamworth left London with all three points against Sutton United. A Joe Riley penalty and a Tyler Roberts goal gave the visitors the lead, before a Lewis Simper double brought things level at 2-2. A minute after the equaliser though, Manny Duku scored what turned out to be the winner, all within 37 minutes of football! The defeat piles further pressure on Sutton boss Steve Morison, the Us having won just one of their opening nine league games.

Boreham Wood remain undefeated since the opening day loss against Rochdale, as they handily dispatched of an inconsistent Altrincham side. An Erico Sousa brace and a Zak Brunt penalty sent the hosts into half time with a 3-1 lead, before Jimmy Knowles netted a consolation goal just before the hour mark.

Wealdstone and Gateshead shared the points in a 2-2 draw, as Dominic Hutchinson capitalised on a mistake from Heed ‘keeper George Shelvey to take the lead just four minutes in. Kain Adom scored a double to put the visitors in front, before another calamity from the young Shelvey allowed Max Kretzschmar to equalise in front of the home terrace in the 88th minute. In the evening kickoff, two first half goals from Zavier Massiah-Edwards and Luis Fernandez put Eastleigh in control of the game, before late goals from Owen Devonport and Thierry Latty-Fairweather rescued a point for hosts FC Halifax Town.

Regan Linney and former Glover Bevis Mugabi scored the goals for Carlisle United as they defeated Aldershot Town, while Forest Green Rovers and Scunthorpe United shared the points at The New Lawn; Declan Howe opened the scoring once again for the Iron just four minutes in, before a 98th minute equaliser from James Balagizi saved the day for the hosts. Boston United almost snuck away from Roots Hall with a win, thanks to Zak Mills’ 81st minute hit, but an Andrew Dallas penalty ensured Southend United took something from a game that seemed overwhelmingly in the host’s favour judging from the statistics.

Finally, Kyron Gordon scored the only goal of the game as Rochdale condemned Truro City to yet another narrow home defeat, while Hartlepool United and Brackley Town played out a dull 0-0 draw.

National League results – in full

Yeovil Town 1-0 Woking
Boreham Wood 3-1 Altrincham
Braintree Town 2-3 York City
Carlisle United 2-0 Aldershot Town
Forest Green Rovers 1-1 Scunthorpe United
Hartlepool United 0-0 Brackley Town
Solihull Moors 4-4 Morecambe
Southend United 1-1 Boston United
Sutton United 2-3 Tamworth
Truro City 0-1 Rochdale
Wealdstone 2-2 Gateshead
FC Halifax Town 2-2 Eastleigh

National League table

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Yeovil Town fell to a 3-1 defeat at home against big-spending York City on Saturday afternoon, you can read more about the game here – let’s see what else happened in the league this weekend…

We begin in Surrey, where Woking hammered Gateshead in a 5-0 game. Aiden O’Brien and Tariq Hinds sent the hosts into the lead in the first half, before ex-Glover Jamie Andrews and a Joshua Osude brace compounded the Heed Army’s misery. In the evening kickoff, Aldershot Town continued to provide plenty of entertainment in a 2-2 draw against Brackley Town – Josh Barrett gave the hosts the lead shortly before half-time, before Ben Jackson was sent off for the hosts, Shane Byrne converting the resulting penalty. Matt Lowe then handed Brackley the lead, but just two minutes later, it was level again as Archy Taylor found a way through for the Shots.

There were goals aplenty on Saturday, including three 3-0 wins, all for home sides; Carlisle United dismantled Truro City, with an early double from Luke Armstrong and a Regan Linney strike sending the admirable 78 Truro fans home empty handed, a Lewis Richardson goal and a Matt Rush brace for Boreham Wood downed 10-man Morecambe, and Southend United dismantled 10-man FC Halifax Town, courtesy of goals from Andrew Dallas, Gus Scott-Morriss and Ben Goodliffe – Adam Alimi-Adetoro was sent off for the visitors with twenty minutes remaining.

In the lunchtime kickoff, Altrincham came from behind to defeat Sutton United; Ashley Nadesan gave the visitors the lead, before second half goals from Jimmy Knowles and James Gale secured the win for the Robins. In their first game since sacking Matt Taylor, Solihull Moors bagged their first win of the season in a win over Boston United, Jacob Wakeling scoring two goals either side of former Glover Jordy Hiwula’s strike for the hosts.

For an unprecedented second game in a row, Scunthorpe United had their game abandoned due to injury; the Iron were winning 2-1 at home to Wealdstone, before Daniel Nkrumah went down with a shoulder injury. Following treatment on the field,  he was eventually stretchered off, and the Wealdstone players headed to their dressing room. Following discussion, it was announced that the match would be abandoned, leaving another game in the hands of the National League for the unbeaten hosts.

Two goals in seven minutes for summer signing Mani Dieseruvwe sent him top of the scoring charts, Rochdale into second place, and Braintree Town home with nothing to show for their efforts. A fiery encounter between Tamworth and Eastleigh saw red cards for both Kwaku Donkor and Temi Eweka for their respective sides, but the hosts came out on top thanks to a Manny Duku strike, while Forest Green Rovers continued their unbeaten start to the campaign with a 1-0 win over Hartlepool United, thanks to a Kairo Mitchell goal.

National League results – in full

Altrincham 2-1 Sutton United
Boreham Wood 3-0 Morecambe
Boston United 1-2 Solihull Moors
Carlisle United 3-0 Truro City
Forest Green Rovers 1-0 Hartlepool United
Rochdale 2-0 Braintree Town
Scunthorpe United A-A Wealdstone
Southend United 3-0 FC Halifax Town
Tamworth 1-0 Eastleigh
Woking 5-0 Gateshead
Yeovil Town 1-3 York City
Aldershot Town 2-2 Brackley Town

National League table

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Yeovil Town got back to winning ways on Tuesday night, registering their first three points under interim head coach Richard Dryden, as they beat Solihull Moors away from home in a 1-0 win (which you can read about here!) – let’s see what else went on across the league in a hectic couple of days…

We’ll run through the rest of Tuesday night’s action first, starting in Middlesex, where Wealdstone registered an impressive 3-2 win over Southend United. The hosts took the lead through Enzio Boldewijn, before Slavi Spasov bagged his first goal for the Shrimpers ten minutes later. Two goals in the space of four minutes from Sean Adarkwa regained the lead for Wealdstone, before holding onto their lead against a surge from Southend; Gus Scott-Morriss gave the visitors hope, but it wasn’t enough as Southend’s undefeated start to the season came to an end, while the Stones occupy the final playoff spot.

Morecambe succumbed to a 3-1 defeat at home to Forest Green Rovers, as Gwion Edwards’ impressive first half strike was cancelled out by Kyle McAllister and a brace from ex-Glover Tom Knowles, while Tamworth registered their first away win of the season at Braintree Town thanks to goals from Manny Duku and Beck-Ray Enoru, either side of a goal from former Glover Frankie Terry for the hosts.

Eastleigh and Scunthorpe United were playing out an entertaining 1-1 draw, with Declan Howe getting the visitors ahead in the 83rd minute, and Harvey Saunders equalising in the 91st minute. However, two serious head injuries occurred in an unfortunate clash between Archie Harris of Eastleigh, and Jéan Belehouan of Scunthorpe – both players received medical attention from paramedics, with Harris ending up going to hospital, and both have since been cleared and confirmed on social medias that they’re ok. The match was abandoned following 93 minutes of play with the scoreline remaining at 1-1, the National League hope to confirm in the coming days if the fixture will need to be replayed. York and Rochdale didn’t play due to the Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Onto Wednesday’s action, and we start with a goalfest, as Boreham Wood left Sutton United with all three points in a 3-4 thriller – Jeff King handed the Wood the lead just ten minutes in, before Jayden Harris and Lewis Simper struck to put the hosts ahead going into half-time. Abdul Abdulmalik made it two apiece, before an 85th minute Zak Brunt penalty gave the visitors the lead. Erico Sousa made it four with just a couple of minutes left on the clock, Sutton attempted to stage a late comeback with a cracker from Edon Pruti, but it wasn’t enough to stop the Wood’s impressive start to their return to the National League.

A fiery affair finished level in Cornwall, as Truro City and 9-man Aldershot Town played out a 2-2 draw – goalkeeper Marcus Dewhurst was sent off in extremely harsh circumstances in the 40th minute, but the Shots took the lead just before half-time with a Kwame Thomas effort. Former Glover Ryan Law equalised for Truro in the 65th minute, before Tyler Harvey scored twenty minutes later to set the Tinners on their way to a second win in a row. However, despite another red card, this time for Cameron Hargreaves, a 97th minute James Henry penalty meant the two sides shared the spoils.

Two first half goals from Lewis Banks and Tylor Golden meant Altrincham secured their first away win of the season, with Gateshead finishing the game with 10 men following a red card for Connor Pani, while there were two penalties in the draw between FC Halifax Town and Woking; both were scored, as Harry Beautyman gave the visitors the lead with his, before Adam Hmami equalised with his own penalty in the 91st minute. Hartlepool United and Boston United couldn’t be separated, as Luke Charman and Manni Norkett scored the goals for their respective sides, and finally, a Regan Linney strike was the difference as Carlisle United narrowly beat Brackley Town.

National League results – in full

Braintree Town 1-2 Tamworth
Eastleigh A-A Scunthorpe United
Morecambe 1-3 Forest Green Rovers
Solihull Moors 0-1 Yeovil Town
Wealdstone 3-2 Southend United

Brackley Town 0-1 Carlisle United
FC Halifax Town 1-1 Woking
Gateshead 0-2 Altrincham
Hartlepool United 1-1 Boston United
Sutton United 3-4 Boreham Wood
Truro City 2-2 Aldershot Town

National League table

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On a wet Saturday afternoon, it was further heartbreak for Yeovil Town, as they fell to a narrow 3-2 defeat away at FC Halifax Town, which you can read more about here. Let’s see what else happened in the National League on Saturday…

We begin in Tyne and Wear, where Gateshead and Aldershot Town played out an exciting 3-3 draw – Kyle Hurst got the scoring underway just five minutes in for the hosts, before Kwame Thomas and Cameron Hargreaves gave the visitors the lead before half-time. Two goals in two minutes from the aforementioned Hurst, and Harry Chapman, handed the Heed the lead once again, but Hady Ghandour equalised for the Shots with 13 minutes to go to share the points.

Rochdale took their spot at the top of the table with a convincing 3-1 win at Wealdstone; Aidan Barlow and Devante Rodney gave the visitors the lead going into half-time, before yet another Mani Dieseruvwe strike put the game to bed, Alfie Massey getting the consolation goal for the hosts. Truro City registered their first ever National League points with a 3-0 thumping over Boston United, as Rekeil Pyke opened the scoring just before half-time, Tyler Harvey scoring a penalty just four minutes into the second half, and Will Dean adding a third just five minutes later. Former Glover Aidan Stone made his league debut for the Tinners too, keeping a clean sheet.

There were three 2-1 score lines, with the most impressive coming at Sutton United, Edon Pruti and David Ogbonna scoring for the hosts to register an impressive victory over Carlisle United, Georgie Kelly netting a consolation for the visitors. In the lunchtime kickoff, Southend United continued their impressive start to the campaign with a win over Tuesday night’s hosts Solihull Moors, two Andrew Dallas goals sandwiching a Dan Creaney effort for the home side. The final 2-1 result saw Eastleigh defeat Altrincham, as summer Yeovil target James Gale scored for the visitors in the first half, before Kieron Evans and Harvey Saunders secured the three points for the Hampshire side.

Woking secured their first win of the campaign on their travels to Morecambe, former Glover Jamie Andrews bagging one of the goals, and Sam Ashford finishing off the scoring for the visitors in the 94th minute. In the evening kickoff, a 98th minute goal from Danny Waldron cancelled out a Danny Whitehall penalty, as Brackley Town and 10-man Scunthorpe United shared the points, while there were 0-0 draws for Braintree Town and Forest Green Rovers, and Hartlepool United and Boreham Wood.

York City and Tamworth didn’t play on Saturday, due to the former’s continued involvement with the Women’s Rugby World Cup.

National League results – in full

Solihull Moors 1-2 Southend United
Braintree Town 0-0 Forest Green Rovers
Eastleigh 2-1 Altrincham
FC Halifax Town 3-2 Yeovil Town
Gateshead 3-3 Aldershot Town
Hartlepool United 0-0 Boreham Wood
Morecambe 0-2 Woking
Sutton United 2-1 Carlisle United
Truro City 3-0 Boston United
Wealdstone 1-3 Rochdale
Brackley Town 1-1 Scunthorpe United

National League table

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In what turned out to be Mark Cooper’s final game at the helm of Yeovil Town, it was a capitulation beyond my wildest imagination as Yeovil Town came out on the wrong end of a 3-4 thriller at home to Gateshead – if you dare to read more about it, click here. Let’s see how the rest of the division got on, during a sunny Bank Holiday Monday.

We begin in Cumbria, where Carlisle United were 5-0 winners against Braintree Town to continue their unbeaten start to life in the division. Regan Linney scored a hat trick for the hosts, alongside a George Langston own goal and a Jack Ellis strike to send the Iron Army back to Essex licking their wounds. In an almost equally emphatic win, Aldershot Town made it two wins on the bounce with a 4-0 win at home to Morecambe. All the goals came in the second half, from James Clarridge, Archy Taylor, Josh Barrett and Dejan Tetek to bring the Shrimpers down to earth following their opening day heroics.

Boreham Wood ensured Truro City’s pointless start to the season continued, as they won 2-1 late on – Tom White gave the hosts the lead in the 27th minute before Will Dean pulled one back a few minutes later. It stayed even until the 93rd minute, as Matt Rush poked it home to secure the win for the hosts. Boston United won by the same scoreline against Wealdstone, with Lenell John-Lewis opening the scoring for the hosts just after half-time, before Micah Obiero equalised with 20 minutes to go. Greg Sloggett scored the winner with 10 minutes to go to wrap up the win for the hosts. Kahrel Reddin and Lucas Weaver continued Solihull Moors’ winless start, scoring the goals for Altrincham.

There were FOUR 1-1 draws to mention so we’ll try and fly through those; 10-man Scunthorpe United and Saturday’s hosts FC Halifax Town shared the points, Callum Roberts and David Kawa getting the goals for their respective sides, an own goal from former Glover Tom Parkes meant Hartlepool United had to come from behind for a point against Southend United thanks to Nathan Sheron’s effort, in a battle between the two previous National League North champions it was honours even, Harvey Sayer and Morgan Roberts unable to split Tamworth and Brackley Town, and Woking got their first point of the season at home to York City; Aaron Drewe got the opener for the hosts, with Alex Newby equalising in the second half.

Finally, there were two 1-0 wins for title hunters, as a 94th minute free kick from former Glover Tom Knowles secured all three points for Forest Green Rovers at home to Eastleigh, while a Mani Dieseruvwe goal allowed Rochdale to keep pace at the top against Sutton United.

National League results – in full

Aldershot Town 4-0 Morecambe
Altrincham 2-0 Solihull Moors
Boreham Wood 2-1 Truro City
Boston United 2-1 Wealdstone
Carlisle United 5-0 Braintree Town
Forest Green Rovers 1-0 Eastleigh
Rochdale 1-0 Sutton United
Scunthorpe United 1-1 FC Halifax Town
Southend United 1-1 Hartlepool United
Tamworth 1-1 Brackley Town
Woking 1-1 York City
Yeovil Town 3-4 Gateshead

National League table