Tom Bailey

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A resurgent Yeovil Town ran out as 2-0 winners at Wealdstone on a bitter Wednesday night; Tom Bailey was there for Green and White Radio, here’s what he made of it…

What a great team performance! There were concerns post-Woking that the team looked unmotivated, that there was a lack of fight, togetherness and desire… well that did a complete 180! Every single player looked like they would run through a wall for each other, FCD and McGavin put their bodies on the line in a powerful midfield display, variations of Sims, Jones, Daly and Works all pressing as duos, and an organised backline showed that these guys can be a team, as they outworked and outsmarted a rotated Wealdstone side.

Before I call out my man of the match, I want to give an honourable mention to Ryan Jones for pulling off a roulette inside his own half under pressure from multiple Wealdstone players, nerves of steel on that man in a fantastic individual display.

James. Daly (again). Can I just use last Saturday’s thoughts for this bit? Once again, an electric performance while in the central striker role – have we had our missing striker at the club the whole time?? His turn of pace is elite for the level, causing defences headaches all game, and his linkup with both wings was exceptional. Take a bow son, take a bow!

He’s done it again. James Daly celebrates his sixth goal of the season.

The pressure has been eased tremendously now. There were concerns among fans headed into this trio of games (Morecambe, Wealdstone, Gateshead) that they could define our season. Two wins from the first two of those games have made that gap to the bottom four look like a chasm in comparison to a week or so ago.

The fans, the staff and the players should all give themselves a pat on the back for stepping up when it’s mattered most, as we look increasingly like a National League side for next season!

The red. Yes I’m afraid I’m going to mention it, we can’t have all five points be positive can we?! Troy Perrett has come in for criticism at times this season, with a bright start to life in green and white dying off pretty quickly. In absence of Dakarai Mafico, he’s started the last two games and while there were sparks of brilliance, it’s not quite come together for him yet.

However, having slept on it (important here on Gloverscast) – that’s really poor for me. I came in for stick when I said Jarvis shouldn’t have been dismissed against Rochdale (I WAS VERY WRONG), and this incident felt weirdly similar to me. In the moment, I didn’t quite understand how it was even a booking, never mind a red, but upon seeing the replay, he’s earned every bit of that red. Hopefully this is a learning experience that he can take forward in his career, marking a low point of an uninspiring loan spell.

Troy Perrett
Pic c/o Gary Brown

Let’s end the season with a flourish! I was keen to just stay up, even if it was close, I just wanted to stay up. Maybe I’m giddy from seeing us sit in the dizzying heights of 15th, but I feel weirdly relaxed about the rest of the season now. Let’s enjoy ourselves, keep up the impressive performances and end the season with a high. Wins against the likes of Gateshead, Truro, Eastleigh and Solihull would see us very comfortably into mid-table, let’s manifest a few more wins!

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Yeovil Town’s topsy-turvy season continued on Saturday, as they defeated Morecambe at Huish Park in what had been billed as a six-pointer. Tom Bailey was there for Green and White Radio, here’s what he thought.

Well that was great fun… What an entertaining game of football! Entertainment value has often been criticised at Huish Park this season, with Cooper-ball and Copper-lite-ball under Richard Dryden leading to some turgid performances. If this is what we should expect under Billy Rowley next season, then sign me up! It was a game of high quality, but it didn’t disappoint in the entertainment department!

James. Daly. Boy am I glad we have James Daly in this team. A slow start to the season, followed by injury saw Daly’s stock fall as Christmas approached. But after finding fitness, and a regular run of games allowing him to build momentum, he’s come into his own, particularly following the absence of Luke McCormick.

His pressing and relentless energy makes him a joy to watch, and his goal was well taken today, taking his league tally to five for the season. Even his 99th minute press of the Morecambe ‘keeper was the perfect example of why we need to play to Daly’s strengths next season.

James Daly reflecting the mood inside Huish Park.

The players showed a bit of something today. I mentioned above that while entertaining, the quality of the game wasn’t necessarily great. Both teams were desperate to win this game, which was a stark contrast to the drab midweek defeat at Woking for the Glovers. Everyone put in a hell of a shift to earn those three points today, and even if they aren’t staying beyond the end of the season, that is a performance that Yeovil fans should be proud of.

Delano McCoy-Splatt, welcome to Yeovil! When McCoy-Splatt’s signing was announced midweek, there were mixed responses, with some relief that we had more midfield depth, but some concern over his age and lack of game time. Thankfully, he made a brilliant start to life in green and white, coming on as a substitution on the right hand side. His linkup play with Josh Sims and Finn Cousin-Dawson was excellent, and his vision for the pass to Terrell Works for Daly’s goal was awesome. More of that please and thank you!

Onto Wealdstone. Let’s take the positive feeling following a hard-earned victory and carry that momentum into the midweek game at Wealdstone. A lot of people earmarked these three fixtures (plus Gateshead next Saturday) as our three biggest games of the season, and with three points on the board already, let’s carry on this good work into Wednesday’s game.

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Yeovil fell victim to a professional performance against Scunthorpe United. Here are Tom’s Five Conclusions from Huish Park.

We definitely weren’t bad! This sounds like I’m scrabbling for positives, but genuinely we performed really well in the first half. We looked like a team hunting for a win, not just accepting a 0-0 like we may have in previous years. Sure, things unravelled towards the end of the 90 minutes for us, but I don’t think I could sit there and say we didn’t give it a damn good go, we just need that final finish… speaking of which…

Goodness me, we need a striker. The majority of Yeovil fans can see that Billy Rowley is having to make do with the sum of the parts available to him, but one glaringly obvious gap in the recruitment this season has been the lack of a competent striker.

Aaron Jarvis looked better today, but I don’t think it’s hard to look better than he has in recent performances (looking at you Rochdale…), meanwhile Tahvon Campbell continued to look lackadaisical at best, and lazy at worst. Both players have had opportunities across their last few performances to take the striker spot as their own, but neither have done so. Put it this way, if we had someone like Danny Whitehall in our side today, I think we’d have stood an even better chance…

The lads looked tired. It’s easy to say something like that considering the scoreline and the run of fixtures in recent weeks, but it’s unfortunately true. Right from the off, even in our better periods during the game, we looked somewhat leggy, unable to get that extra yard of space we may have found with rested legs.

The second goal completely sucked the life out of the squad, which was telling for the third goal, so hopefully this week of rest will help us come back against Boston all guns blazing.

Let’s not panic. Yes, we’re still eight points above the drop, and yes the team’s behind are picking up points. But, teams are also sinking; look at Sutton and Braintree from just today as an example. We’ve proven we’re capable of picking up points too. Looking at the table with the glass half full, if results go our way next weekend, we’re 12th again. Suddenly, we can look up again, rather than behind.

Today will hurt, but let’s stay calm, back the squad and the staff, and they’ll get us over the line, one way or another.

Billy Rowley
Pic c/o Gary Brown

Roll on the summer. As mentioned above with the striker situation, we need to get some holes filled in this squad in the summer. A heavy reliance on the loan market has had mixed results, and while a lot of the recruitment has been alright, we’ve built a squad for FOUR different managers.

We can see the foundations being laid for the next season, but we’ve just got to get through these last 11 games and look forward to next season; some strikers, some proper wing-backs, and a replenishment of contracted (and preferably good) midfielders, and then we can really begin to judge the Billy Rowley era. Up the Yeo, and all that!

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A spirited first half performance was cancelled out by a professional opposition on Saturday, as Yeovil Town were defeated at home by Scunthorpe United. The Glovers had the better performance going into half-time, with chances for Aaron Jarvis and James Daly going amiss.

The second half saw Scunthorpe step their game up, with a fortunate penalty being tucked home by Danny Whitehall, before a double from his replacement Leo Farrell put the game out of reach for Yeovil. The defeat leaves Yeovil 17th in the table, still eight points above the bottom four.

First half

Billy Rowley named an unchanged lineup from Tuesday night’s win over Tamworth, with youth product Ollie Hughes once again making the bench.

The opening stages of the game saw Yeovil with more of the possession, forcing the visiting Scunthorpe into a series of fouls in the midfield, allowing the Glovers to further assert themselves on the game. Scunthorpe had the first real opportunity to score though, as a good run from Joe Rowley broke through the Yeovil defence, forcing a save from Jed Ward.

Just before the ten minute mark, Yeovil fired back though, as a tantalising cross from Josh Sims was missed by James Daly and Aaron Jarvis – the ball was recovered on the other end of the box by Troy Perrett, and after some pinball in the box, Jarvis couldn’t sneak a backheel past Scunthorpe ‘keeper Lewis Jones.

Another chance followed for Yeovil soon after, as they beat Scunthorpe’s press and attacked down the right hand side once again; Sims got the ball to Dakarai Mafico but his shot ballooned over from all of 30 yards out.

Scunthorpe then forced the Glovers into a mistake, as a mixup between Brett McGavin and Jake Wannell allowed attacker Callum Roberts to pounce; his shot was blocked, almost wrong-footing Jed Ward, but the Bristol Rovers loanee scrambled across his net to recover.

22 minutes in, and a pause in play was called for an “injury” to Danny Whitehall, who seemed to feel that Jed Ward had kneed him in the back as he moved past him following a Scunthorpe chance… after his treatment (and a yellow card to Jed Ward), play got back underway.

Neither side looked to threaten for a spell, with pantomime villain Danny Whitehall earning himself a spot in the referee’s book the only noteworthy moment. A few minutes later, Aaron Jarvis stormed down the left hand side for Yeovil, putting a lovely cross in for James Daly, but the in-form number 11 scooped his shot over the bar.

A few half-chances for Yeovil were the remaining events for the final ten minutes of the first half, but both sides went into half-time goalless. A positive first half performance from the Glovers, who went into the half-time break the better of the two sides.

Half time: Yeovil Town 0 Scunthorpe United 0

Second half

The Glovers took kickoff for the second half, kicking towards the Thatchers Terrace, and it was in front of the terrace where the first chance of the half came. A patient passage of play allowed Josh Sims to put a good ball in for Aaron Jarvis; his flick on was found by Troy Perrett, but the Cardiff youngster couldn’t control the ball and the move fell apart.

Scunthorpe went down the other end, and following a challenge from Joy Mukena, the Iron won themselves a penalty. Up stepped the pantomime villain, as Danny Whitehall sent Super Jed Ward the wrong way to give the visitors an arguably undeserved lead.

Not long after, the visitors were on the attack again, a stray boot following a shot from Whitehall left Brett McGavin on the floor needing treatment. Scunthorpe continued to push forward following the restart, with two chances being blocked, then sent over the bar.

Yeovil looked to respond, building momentum and introducing a fresh face in the shape of Tahvon Campbell. More chances came and went for Yeovil, with the biggest of the lot coming from a low-driven Ryan Jones cross; it was blocked and sent into the path of Tahvon Campbell, but his shot from five yards was saved by the ‘keeper.

Just before the 70 minute mark, Scunthorpe’s defence was scrambling once again, as another Campbell shot was blocked, forcing a corner, before a raft of subs were introduced, three for the visitors and one for Yeovil.

Soon after, Scunthorpe doubled their lead following a very tidy passage of passing, unlocking the Yeovil defence and leaving recently-introduced Leo Farrell with acres of space and an easy tap-in.

Yeovil huffed and puffed, but aside from a handful of hopeful forays into the opposition third, nothing of any quality was produced. It took until one of the nine (yes, nine) added minutes for Yeovil’s next chance to come, as Harvey Greenslade’s shot hit the side netting.

From the goal kick, Scunthorpe went down the other end and breezed through the Yeovil defence – there were calls for offside, but the flag stayed down as Leo Farrell tucked home his second, and Scunthorpe’s third. The visitors comfortably saw out the remainder of the game, heading home as 3-0 winners.

Full time: Yeovil Town 0 Scunthorpe United 3

Match Details

Venue: Huish Park
Date: Saturday 7th March, 3:00pm kick-off

Competition: National League Premier Division

Scorers: Danny Whitehall 49 (0-1), Leo Farrell 74, 90+4 (0-2, 0-3)

Pitch: Green! Soft and slippery
Conditions: Fresh, mist hanging in the air

Attendance: 3,016 (147 away supporters)

Bookings:
Yeovil Town: Jed Ward 23
Scunthorpe United: Danny Whitehall 34

Referee: Callum Walchester

Yeovil Town

Substitutes: Matt Gould, Alex Whittle, Finn Cousin-Dawson (for Brett McGavin, 83), Harvey Greenslade (for Josh Sims, 70), Kyle Ferguson, Tahvon Campbell (for Aaron Jarvis, 60), Ollie Hughes

Scunthorpe United: Lewis Jones, Branden Horton, Andrew Boyce, Danny Whitehall (for Leo Farrell, 70), Callum Roberts (for Alfie Beestin, 90), Joe Rowley, Zain Tahir (for Tyler Denton, 70), Oli Ewing, Zain Westbrooke, Connor Smith (for Aidan Dausch, 64), Ross Barrows (for Joe Starbuck, 70)

Substitutes (not used): Rory Mahady, Carlton Ubaezuonu

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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