Gloversblog (Page 11)

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Words by Seb White

On April 22, 1993, the day before The Glovers beat Boston United 2–1 at home (Mickey Spencer scored a brace. Of course he did) the release of the Mosaic Web Browser marked the genesis of today’s internet. Three decades on, we live in a time of information overload, the incessant pinging of social media notifications, and instant communication with friend or foe via a litany of apps. It’s sometimes easy to forget how things used to be, how different it all was. The mid to late nineties was a time of landlines, pagers and me and my mates getting our first mobile phones. Communication was doable but sporadic.

Finding out the latest news about your favourite football club was hard, and it was even harder if that favourite was in the 5th tier of the English football pyramid. If you were lucky, the latest signing or managerial change would be announced on Ceefax or Teletext. It seems ridiculous now, but you’d wait for a local newspaper to come every Thursday for a shred of commentary, opinion or analysis outside the basics. God bless the Western Gazette.

“I had no real idea who people with daft names like Badger, Taff Glover, Hoagy or HHH were, but I knew they really liked the same thing I did”

Then the internet came along—which we’d have to dial up to—and initially, it was just a lot of text on screen. But it was something. ytfc.com was the first website I’d go to, and not long after, it was also something brilliantly named called ciderspace.co.uk. The forums on both sites were the first time you could chat with people outside the actual match. It really was a whole new world, and I was in hook, line, and sinker. I had no real idea who people with daft names like Badger, Taff Glover, Hoagy or HHH were, but I knew they really liked the same thing I did and had given us all a platform for us to chat about that silly thing, and seemingly they sounded like they knew what they were talking about.

As the late nineties edged towards a new Millennium, awaydays would also involve joining the dots and making online real-life connections. Can I remember exactly the first time I met Badger? Or Hugh? Or Taff Glover? I won’t pretend and say I did, but I know, looking back at some point, the nods became greetings, they became chats and sooner or later, they were just the people you gravitated to on match day. It helped that they literally mapped out their pre-match schedule in brilliantly and accurately researched away day guides that would take you away from the beaten track. As an information resource, Ciderspace was more than enough for a fan of a 5th-tier football club: it also had a brilliant tone of voice, no cut and pasting of press releases, but proper analysis that got to the nub of the matter and communicated exactly what you need to know just like a fan on the terraces.

Off the pitch, Yeovil Town fans were spoilt rotten, really, thanks to a gang of hardy, funny volunteers who somehow, in between their day jobs, created and fed a community that grew and grew. Community, for me, is and will always be the most important thing about football. The goals, the highs and lows, and the awaydays all help to embellish the moments and experiences but are nothing without other people and a real bond.

“If it wasn’t for Ciderspace and the basis of knowledge, support, potential contributions, and customers, I’d probably not have started a football fanzine”

It may have just been an independent fan site, but If I’d not messaged someone called will_ran on the Ciderspace forum to see if he wanted to go halves on a room for a pre-season tour, I might not have ended up having a drink post a Yeovil game a few years later with his sister-in-law who ended up being my wife. If it wasn’t for Ciderspace and the basis of knowledge, support, potential contributions, and customers, I’d probably not have started a football fanzine; if I’d not done that, I wouldn’t have made that first step in a career in football media that has shaped my life. If it wasn’t for Ciderspace, I wouldn’t have set up the Capital Glovers and made friends for life. If it wasn’t for Ciderspace, the Capital Glovers wouldn’t have a WhatsApp group which, a few years back, expressed concern that Martin Badger Baker hadn’t been heard from on a match day. I lived closest, so I jumped in an Uber to go and check on him, but I was much too late and then had to ring and tell HHH that he was no longer with us.

And if it wasn’t for Ciderspace, there wouldn’t be the same WhatsApp group of Yeovil Town fans of different ages, different backgrounds, different stories suddenly pinging into life in the early hours of the morning because the daughter of one of the said group has to explain the cancer her dad didn’t want anyone to know about had taken the life of a wonderful man prematurely.

No more pre or post-match pints dissecting on and off-the-field shenanigans as we had done and hoped to do so for more years to come. No more relying on the Yeovil Town oracle to clarify or confirm a cloudy memory or hazy recollection of a green and white past. We’ve been through this process when Badger unexpectedly passed away. It will feel like something is missing on a match day, but life does indeed have to go on.

“One thing is for sure: Taff, Badger and Hugh more than did their bit and should be remembered as much as those on the pitch in the annals (physical or digital) of Yeovil Town history.”

It might feel a bit like the end of an era now the three founders of Ciderspace are no longer with us, but in Gloverscast, their spirit very much lives on. Enjoy it, contribute to it, support it and make the most of it.

Who knows how Yeovil fans will follow goings on via the Information Super Highway about their favourite football team in the years and decades to come, but one thing is for sure: Taff, Badger and Hugh more than did their bit and should be remembered as much as those on the pitch in the annals (physical or digital) of Yeovil Town history.

I missed the funeral as I was on holiday, and the lads tell me the ales were raised. Consider this my contribution to paying respects. So thank you, Hugh, for your contribution to my and many other people’s Yeovil Town fandom. As a teacher, father, and grandfather, you already leave a great legacy, but you made a bigger mark than most by also doing a daft website with your mates. Rest in peace, sir.

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Football is back, Yeovil Town are back in the National League and Five Conclusions is back too. Ian was in the press box for BBC Somerset, and here’s how he saw it… 

We struggled to find a way through. There were familiar patterns to the game as Yeovil resumed with the possession-based style which served them so well last season and felt in control for most of the game. But, where there was control, there wasn’t that creative spark to cut through a dogged defence. Not until the end of the match, where an error at the back allowed Harvey Greenslade an opportunity at an open goal, did Yeovil create something clear cut. Mark Cooper said his ‘nippy’ players need to more. Morgan struggled to find a way into the game. Young, who was scythed down by Parkes early on, wasn’t allowed to find his rhythm on the ball. We brought Sonny Blu Lo-Everton, Harvey Greenslade and Sam Pearson in to make something happen, but they couldn’t make the decisive impact.

A physical encounter on the opening game of the season against Hartlepool United. Picture courtesy of Mike Kunz.

 

Hartlepool did exactly what you’d expect. I’m not sure it’s fair to tarnish Darren Sarll with the ‘typical Sarll’ brush, but every time we’ve played him since he left, we have lost 1-0 and it’s been a war. Yesterday was the same, it was physical, it was long ball and it was knock downs from the big man Dieseruvwe. I actually thought we coped well with it, but for a spell in the second half. Wannell and Williams handled the physicality, but in that second half patch Hartlepool found more space around Yeovil’s box, had the Glovers stretched and it was a well-struck finish from Jack Hunter that won the game in the end. The onus was then on the Glovers to break down a resilient side that often went into a back six and, as is their right, burned away the time by any means necessary.

Aaron Jarvis relished the battle. When Yeovil’s new number 9 lined up against a centre back pairing with nearly 900 games between then, I think he knew the afternoon he was in for. Tom Parkes and Luke Waterfall were the nasty bastards you’d expect from a Darren Sarll defence, but I thought Jarvis gave as good as he got. He was physical with them, won some headers and also seemed to get under their skin too. He’s got that Murphy/Hyde-esque edge to him. Unfortunately, he didn’t get the service into him to make anything happen at goal, but it was a game where he had to show he was up for a fight, and I think he was.

Alex Whittle. Picture courtesy of Mike Kunz.

Alex Whittle was back to his reliable best. The left-back, who was missing for the run-in through injury last season, returned to the side and was every bit the player we low-key loved last season. He might not have that Michael Smith swagger, but he’s an absolute machine on the left. He dealt with the pace and strength of Joe Grey. He was tough in the tackle, perceptive in the moments where he needed to be in the right position and is just Mr Dependable. My man of the match.

It was nice to be back! There was a good atmosphere at Huish Park (and plenty of Bradfords bucket hats) and as always, the opening day expectations are high – despite having not won on the opening day since 2015/16. (Goals from Kevin Dawson and Otis Khan scored against Notts County). The pitch was great, the stadium was looking the part and the buzz was there. While the result didn’t match the mood, football is back and there’s a long way to go!

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Football, National League, Vanatama

It’s the start of the National League season tomorrow and the Gloverscast team have shared their thoughts, hopes and dreams for this season…

Ian Perkins

Thoughts on Summer:

A summer as Champions, I could get used to this. After the upheaval following 2023’s takeover, 2024 has felt quieter. There’s not been any need to shout about the vision of the club to get people back through the turnstiles. We have added some more young, hungry players to the squad, signed a striker who has scored goals in National League, Mark Cooper has signed a new three-year deal and been given a boost to his budget too.

What are you most excited about?

Last season, I was excited for goals and we got plenty. This season I’m excited to see us compete at a more challenging level. Through plenty of matches last season there was total control and an ability to keep teams at arms-length. I’m excited to see what this united squad, with momentum, can do against much tougher sides than NLS.

Frank Nouble tries to play forward
📸 Gary Brown

Who is our key player?

If I had to pick an individual, I think it would be Frank Nouble. The Guvnor is a firm fan favourite and carried the team at points last season. He leads by example, and seems to find an extra gear when you least expect it. I’m going to bend a rule though here and say I think a combination of players is key – Jake Wannell and Morgan Williams. That partnership was imperious last season and rarely put a foot wrong. We saw their capability against Southend and Gateshead in the FA Cup and will no doubt be asked a lot more questions this season than last. If that duo can reproduce 2023/24 performances, who knows what’s possible?

Who will be our breakout star?

Dylan Morgan has certainly been the standout during pre-season with some lovely goals. After signing halfway through the season he started to show some flashes of brilliance towards the end of the last campaign and with a full Mark Cooper pre-season under his belt, I think he might be the one to set things alight.

Where will we finish?

After our last season in the National League, I will be very happy with a consolidating, safe season. I have that sneaking suspicion that momentum might take us further than that though. If Mark Cooper can get these players on a run, and we can keep attackers at bay like we did last year, there’s no reason why we can’t compete higher up. 11th

David Coates

Thoughts on Summer:

The recruitment does not appear to be over at the time of writing (the day of our final pre-season friendly at Weston-super-Mare) and hopefully there are more arrivals to come, but I’m happy with the business we have done. We can’t underestimate the quality already in our ranks and a decent pre-season suggests there’s more to come.

What are you most excited about?

Seeing what this side can do against better opposition. Mark Cooper has made it clear that he wants us to continue his brand of possession-based football which got us promoted last season. But we’re playing against better sides this season and hopefully that will mean not having to chip away eleven men behind the ball every week. There’s so much attacking talent in this side and if they get the opportunities they can really excite.

Who is our key player?

Michael Smith. We know what a great player he was for us last season and he alongside Frank Nouble represents the experienced head in our side. We know how important character is at National League Premier level and he’ll be the one who makes sure standards don’t slip.

He shoots, he scores! Finish from Sonny Blu Lo Everton
? Gary Brown

Who will be our breakout star?

I’m not sure he counts as a break-out, but this feels like it could be a moment for Sonny Blu Lo-Everton to shine. Far and away out most technically gifted player, he’s shown his ability to be a regular starter as well as his versatility. He’s a very different player to the one which played at this level for us last time. If he’s not a break-out, maybe Dylan Morgan.

Where will we finish?

I’m living by the philosophy of not getting too high with the highs or too low with the lows. There are still players to be added to the squad but as I write this on the day of our final pre-season friendly with Weston-super-Mare, our squad seems a little too thin to be realistic promotion challengers but enough to keep us clear of bother at the bottom. 12th.

Ben Barrett

Thoughts on Summer:

I feel like we’ve upgraded in just about every position, we’ve strengthened an already very strong defence and added depth and flair in all areas of the pitch.

I feel like we have Plan B’s throughout and the additions of Aaron Jarvis, Brett McGavin and Harvey Greenslade stand out, but it’s been a nice, calm, considered summer.

The biggest deal of all though, is tying down the Manager for the next three years.

What are you most excited about?

Playing games up north!!

Also, playing games against teams for whom we’re not the big fish, we’re going to have some even battles, some attack minded games and hopefully some expansive football, it feels like a league with plenty of sides that are capable, willing, hoping and trying to make the play-offs, we are one of them!

Who is our key player?

I think Ollie Wright has a huge season ahead of him, he has big Gloves to fill replacing Joe Day, but he’ll need to be strong, commanding and clear in what he has to do.

He’ll undoubtedly have to keep us in games as times, and in behind a defence which performed so well last season brings with it a pressure to maintain confidence and be dominant if Yeovil are to achieve more success.

Who will be our breakout star?

I’ve already called out Brett McGavin as a potential Glovies winner, so I wont say him, i’ll go for Harvey Greenslade. His arrival made a lot of sense early on in the summer and was probably overshadowed in the headline stakes but Aaron Jarvis coming through the door.

But Greenslade will definitely get chances and has shown he might just have the ability to make himself undroppable. With more subs available, he’ll play in a LOT of games and I can’t wait to see what he can do.

Where will we finish?

The word for me this season is ‘progression’, on and off the field. In a really competitive division, we have a genuine chance of finishing just about anywhere.

We are certainly in a huge group of sides who will know that Play-Offs are in our grasp, but we understand that it will need a bit of luck, a bit of a run somewhere and a few other sides to under perform.

We’ll flirt with the Top 7, but my heart and head says we’ll fall just short. I’m going for 10th, which is very much a huge amount of progression.

Harvey Greenslade. Picture courtesy of Iain Morland.

Callum Gould

Thoughts on Summer:

This summer for the Glovers has been ok, and no doubt I’ll get some stick for saying that. Yes, on the pitch it’s been good when playing against weaker opponents. It’s nothing against Melksham, Frome and Buckland Athletic but they aren’t National league level and when we have come up against better sides we have struggled, Farnborough were no walkover and we lost to Exeter and Bristol Rovers, who are more the calibre of teams I expect to face this year.

Transfer wise I don’t think we’ve done nearly enough. Whether that’s been for budgetary reasons or not 1) I don’t feel the squads big enough and 2) I don’t think we have the quality to compete with the likes of Forest Green, Oldham and Rochdale. For me we are missing an out and out goal scorer and a central midfielder, because if either Matty Worthington or Charlie Cooper gets injured, we haven’t got the depth to replace them sufficiently. Hopefully Mark Cooper utilises this injection of cash the chairman has said he’s put in.

What are you most excited about?

 

For the upcoming season I’m most excited about not playing non regional football. Don’t get me wrong it was nice last season but I’m glad it was only one season. Playing better opponents, although tough, will be nice again. Also playing York, for obvious reasons.

Who is our key player?

It’s always difficult to tell in pre-season which players have peaked early, which players need more time and which players aren’t actually good enough. Ultimately though one player has stood out and that’s Dylan Morgan. He has contributed hugely so far in pre-season and hopefully he carries on this form.

Who will be our breakout star?

Our breakout star will be Finn Cousin-Dawson. His pedigree is clear to see and it wouldn’t surprise me if he breaks into the starting eleven at some point. Good on the ball and his experience at a young age could be pivotal.

Where will we finish?

Another tough one to predict, especially in such a difficult league. If I was being honest with myself top half of the league will be a struggle for us, with how many good teams there are in the division. I think anywhere between 12th and 16th will be good for the Glovers (I hope to be proved wrong).

Callum Hallett

Thoughts on the summer:

After the success of last season and the quality of our squad coming into the 24/25 season, it was clear that we only needed to add in certain areas, mainly depth related. I am very with the transfer window we have had, adding plenty of youth to give ourselves an exciting future for beyond this season, with an average aged squad of just 23.6.

What are you most excited about?

I just miss football… having to deal with watch Gareth Southgate’s England for a month over the Summer made me realise how much I miss watching league football. For me this season, I won’t just be watching Yeovil but I am so excited to meet up with some old faces and have a good laugh. It’ll be exciting to watch this young, promising side play some great, controlled football against quality opposition.

Morgan Williams 📸 Gary Brown

Who’s our key player?

 

I could go through a list of 5+ players who could be counted as key players. However, I’ve decided to go with our 24 year-old central defender, Morgan Williams, who is the second longest serving player at the club. His excellent pace and physical attributes allow us to play a high line as well his qualities on the ball, being able to dictate games from the back.

Who will be our breakout star?

Am I going to be boring and go with Dylan Morgan? Yes. This season’s Jordan Young? He certainly looks like he’s taking up a similar path in pre season. His footwork is absolutely brilliant adding a real pace and directness to our attacks. I feel he will reach a minimum of 15 goal contributions this season, which is VERY impressive for a 21 year-old in the National League.

Where will we finish:

In my National League predictions I had ourselves to finish 16th, comfortably avoiding relegation but making no real threat of the top half. I would be very happy with this as the jump from Step 2 to 1 is massive, meaning many promoted teams seem to struggle. We have an exciting project happening with a very young squad so safety would be a success in my eyes.

Ollie Marsh

Thoughts on summer…

Is it possible to have a bad summer when you’ve just gone up as Champions? There’s been no need to galvanise or rebuild as there was in the summer of 2023; instead, the only job this year has been to keep the good feeling and team spirit going. I’ve been encouraged by our signings, with proven goalscorer Aaron Jarvis naturally becoming the headline arrival. I might have liked to see a bit more EFL experience – most of our signings have come from below rather than above – but it feels like this year’s Michael Smith-esque addition could be forthcoming.

What are you most excited about this season?

Being able to arrive at an away ground and not immediately think about how far we’ve fallen. It’s hard to call a return to National League ‘back in the big time’, and I’d hope the feeling around the club is that we’re still one division away from where we should rightfully be, but not having to go to made up towns such as “Aveley” (just not a real place) will be a welcome relief.

Who’s our key player?

While the goals were shared around the team last season, I think this season’s success could depend on whether we can get a song out of Aaron Jarvis. He’s scored goals aplenty at this level and a double figure return could be the difference between relegation and staying up, staying up and mid-table, mid-table and play-off push etc. etc. Other than that, Frank Nouble’s experience and leadership will be equally as valuable.

Who’s going to be our breakout star?

In the final game of last season, Dylan Morgan looked like he had a point to prove. His performance against Dover that day, which saw him sweep home two goals in a 3-1 win, was enough to earn him a contract, and he’s carried that momentum into this pre-season. I’m rooting for him.

Where will we finish?

As we find our feet back at this level and adjust to not playing semi-pro sides every other week, I’m not expecting consistency. I do pessimistically think we could go through some sticky patches, but I back us to steer clear of any relegation dogfight.. 13th.

James Graham

Thoughts on summer…

I think a very notable takeaway from this summer was the strength of our retained list, the fact we’ve kept the majority of the title winning squad together and tied down Mark Cooper for another three years can only be positive. As well as this, considering the manager’s known ability to recruit well, I am confident in the signings Yeovil have made.

What are you most excited about this season?

I’m excited about facing a different calibre of opposition compared to last season, as it was no secret that Yeovil were on a different level to most of our opposition, in regard to the stature of the club. This season we will not have the problem of facing eleven players camped in their own half. I’m looking forward to bigger clubs visiting Huish Park and bringing a proper following, equally there are multiple exciting away fixtures this season such as Oldham, York and Forest Green, amongst others.

Aaron Jarvis. Picture courtesy of Iain Morland.

Who’s our key player?

While it’s difficult to choose one key player, I think Yeovil’s new frontman Aaron Jarvis could be crucial this season. Having signed from Torquay this summer, after rumoured interest from football league outfit Cheltenham, Jarvis opted for the Glovers and I think his goalscoring pedigree in this division will be an important asset this season. In his last spell in the National League, Jarvis returned 15 goals in a relegated Torquay side from 37/46 league appearances. With the squad we have built I think Jarvis has an opportunity to be Yeovil’s talisman and lead from the front. Regardless of the cliché, goals win games and having an established National League goal scorer will bode well for the newly promoted Greens. I also think our new loan recruit between the sticks, Ollie Wright, will be an impressive addition to the squad, he has had a good pre-season and will be a perfect replacement for Joe Day in my opinion.

Who’s going to be our breakout star?

I think Dylan Morgan is in a position to have a very good season if he stays fit. He’s been in good form since the tail end of last season, notably netting a great goal against Dartford, and a brace away at Dover on the final day. Morgan has also had a promising pre-season, scoring four times. As well as this, I think it’s worth mentioning Harvey Greenslade and Brett McGavin, both of whom I think will prove to be important players for us in the coming season, they, like Dylan Morgan have impressed in pre-season.

Where will we finish?

I think we have a good opportunity to finish mid-table this season and cement our place in the National League, possibly to stage a more realistic promotion chase in the 2025/26 season. While I think it is relatively possible that Yeovil challenge for the play-off positions in the coming season, I think due to it being our first season back, as well as the sheer quality of the teams around us, we will fall short of a fairytale promotion push. I don’t think a mid-table finish would upset any Yeovil fan, and I would definitely call it a success if we were to finish where I am predicting.

Tom Bailey

Thoughts on the summer…

I think we’ve had a solid summer, less exciting than last year but I don’t think we needed an exciting summer. We’ve got a great core of players already, and Mark Cooper has done a really good job at building off of that, adding where we needed depth and quality without breaking the bank. There’s also the new kits and sponsors to continue the revitalisation of the club, with the likes of Bradfords and Tamburinos coming back as sponsors after time away, so it’s been a positive summer all things considered! Oh, and of course we can’t forget, summer as a champion can’t be beaten!

What are you most excited about this season?

Stadiums! I only started going to away games last season, and I can’t lie, going to some of the grounds we went to throughout the season, compared to Wrexham for our “big day out” really put into perspective where we had fallen to. Going to “proper” stadiums again this season, with actual stands, with sides, and seats, will be a great experience, I’m personally looking forward to Southend and Oldham!

Who’s our key player?

There are so many options, but I have to go for Jordan Young. He had a breakout six months at the start of last season, and while he tailed off towards the end, if he can find that kind of form at the division above, I think he’s going to be a big influence on where we finish this season. Honourable mentions go to Jake Wannell and Matt Worthington (if Perky can bend the rules, so can I!)

Jordan Young | Pic: Gary Brown

Who’s going to be our breakout star?

One answer – Dylan Morgan. I’ve been really impressed with his pre-season, and end of last season was just a taster for what we could see this year. I’m seriously excited to see how Dylan fares at this level, and I think he’s going to flourish into one of the most dangerous wingers in the division!

Where will we finish?

With our current squad, and the lack of depth in it, I think I’d be expecting a mid to lower mid table finish – I’m going to go for a comfortable 14th place finish, but I wouldn’t be surprised if some extra reinforcements help push us a little further up the table!

Jonathan Hooper

Thoughts on the summer…

It is great that most of last season’s squad has been retained, this will help with the teams cohesion and hopefully lead them to a positive start to the season. Sad to see a couple of faces leave but they have been replaced well.  I think Mark Cooper’s transfer business has been solid but not spectacular. I don’t think there has been that jaw dropping signing that gets me really excited.

What are you most excited about this season?

Yeovil going into matches and not being clear favourites and not playing against teams who sit 11 men behind the ball. Also up there is the fact Sofascore data now covers the National League 🤓

Who’s our key player?

Ollie Wright. With a whole new Goalkeeping team and how last season’s two goalkeepers at the start of the season were released or sent out on loan before Christmas, Ollie Wright and the back four need a good start to the season if the Glovers are to be successful.

Who’s going to be our breakout star?

I’m going to go for Dylan Morgan who just edges Harvey Greenslade for me. Dylan was great in the last couple of games last season and has been in red hot form in preseason. I can see him really pushing on this season.

Where will we finish?

I do think we have the talent for the top 7, however, I don’t think we have enough depth to properly challenge. We are light in a couple of areas still which may see us struggle at times this season and the bigger benches will help the teams with bigger squads. I’d prefer us to finish 17th if not in the top 7 – just so we avoid that awful new competition with premier league U21 teams next season. Prediction: 15th

Former Gloverscast Quiz Champion Rob Manley

Thoughts on the summer…

I’m glad it’s finally over and football for three points is back. It’s been a weird feeling seeing a number of the squad from last season depart and new lads coming in and I would prefer us to have completed our squad before the season has started (sounds like at least one more still to come) but in Cooper we trust!

What are you most excited about this season?

Being back at National League level. Last season was great in terms of the results and the feel good factor, but we only did what we should have done. We are too big for the NLS but realistically we aren’t one of the biggest sides in the NL anymore. So, I’m looking forward to going toe to toe with some big clubs, visiting some new grounds with the boy (and the away day gloves) and supporting the team week in week out.

Who’s our key player?

Ollie Wright. Big gloves to fill the void of Joe Day for the youngster and he’s going to be busy this season both with his hands and feet.  We’re going to need him to make saves he should be making, and saves that he shouldn’t be making as well. Hopefully he’ll be worth/win us 10-15 points by keeping cleanos and taking some pressure off the attackers needing to score multiple goals to win us matches. 46 1-0s will do me nicely.

Dylan Morgan. Picture courtesy of Iain Morland.

Who’s going to be our breakout star?

Dylan Morgan has looked on it this pre-season and carried on his purple patch from the end of last season. It’s great to see him with a full full-time pre-season under his belt. If we can get 10 goals and assists out of him then it sets us up nicely. He’s the one player I think we could be looking to make a decent profit on if a bigger club comes in for him. Outside of Morgan, I’m hoping for decent things from Greenslade and Pearson as well

Where will we finish?

50 points as soon as possible is my target. Anything on top of that, for me, is a bonus in the first season back in the National League. Staying in it is a must and I think we’ll be in and around mid-table.

What do you reckon Yeovil fans? Let us know your views in the comments!

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It’s the summer of polling it seems, and once again, at the Gloverscast we’ve completed the most comprehensive survey of Yeovil Town FC supporters out there. For the third year in a row we asked supporters to score how they feel about issues on the pitch and off the pitch on a scale of 1-7.

Who took part?

This year, 387 supporters completed the survey – down on the 552 and 499 from the previous seasons. More than half of respondents (54%) were over 45 years old and 90% were male. 

What did they tell us?

One of the major developments at the club since Martin Hellier’s takeover last summer has been the improvement to the facilities and match day experience, and that is coming through clearly in the data. We’ve seen a jump of nearly 2 points on the match day experience, customer service and atmosphere and a nearly 3 point jump in Huish Park being ‘well looked after’.


There’s also been an improvement in the perception of the food and drink offering and value for money. With the quality of food increasing to 4.47 vs 3.15 and drink to 4.85 from 3.53. Supporters also think they’re getting better value for money than previous seasons, with the average score 4.34 out of 7, compared to 3.15 and 2.88 in 2022/23 and 2021/22.

In other areas off the pitch, supporters have recognised the improvements made. Supporters feel communication has significantly improved, feel more valued and proud of the club. There is also a recognition that the club has made more effort in the community in the last 12 months.

Areas where there has been improvement, but the score is average is around listening, and who to contact. 

On the pitch

Of course, it was a championship winning season for the Glovers and that is reflected in the scores with support for the job Mark Cooper and the job he did.

And if any wasn’t sure, Jake Wannell was voted as player of the season – again.

The Future

Looking to the future of the club, supporters are narrowly more optimistic than they were last season (we surveyed just after Martin Hellier took over.)

Supporters Groups

When we surveyed in 2023, the Glovers Trust had just hosted the meeting at Johnson Park about the creation of a supporters group that represented all supporters. In the survey last year, the support for a group that represents all supporters scored 5.76 out of 7 and that support has held up this year with a score of 5.38. 

78% of supporters surveyed aren’t part of any group and those who aren’t also support the idea of one group with a score of 5.32.

In Conclusion

We are a much happier bunch than we were in the last two seasons and with good reason. On the pitch we’ve won the National South at the first time of asking and off the pitch, the match day experience is night and day compared to previous seasons. Huish Park has had investment which has seen the creation of The Ciderspace, the upgrading of the Alec Stock Lounge and corporate facilities and those changes are clearly impacting how people feel about the club.’

I am most surprised that the support for a single supporters group has held up, showing that even in these good times the supporters of the club would welcome an organisation that represents them and they can be a part of.

As Yeovil head back into National League after one season, the strides the club has taken has made it nearly unrecognisable from the club 12 months before and that is clear in the numbers.

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After being rumoured to join for well over a year, signing number five is finally through the door! At last, former Torquay United striker, Aaron Jarvis has signed on the dotted line, to complete a move to the Glovers’ which has been a long time coming. The 26 year-old forward has signed a 2-year deal, keeping him at the club until 2026.

In this article, I will be doing an analysis on Aaron Jarvis. The article will include:

  • Player Profile
  • Previous History
  • Key Strengths
  • Areas To Improve
  • Key Stats – 23/24
  • How he suits the “Mark Cooper System”
  • Conclusion

Enjoy the read! Any feedback would be massively appreciated as I continue to analyse every signing the Glovers’ make this summer. I would also be interested in hearing your opinion on the signing of Aaron Jarvis and how the summer has gone so far?

PLAYER PROFILE

  • Name: Aaron Jarvis
  • Position: Forward (Striker)
  • Age: 26 (24/01/98)
  • Height: 6ft 2in (188cm)
  • Strong Foot: Right
  • Previous Club: Torquay United (2022-2024)
  • Previous Club Stats: 56 Games – 24 Goals
  • 23/24 Season Stats: 19 Games – 1596 Minutes – 9 Goals – 1 assist

PREVIOUS HISTORY

2016 – Signs his first professional contract at Basingstoke Town.

2016-2017 – Basingstoke Town – 47 Games – 14 Goals.

2017 – Signs for Luton Town from Basingstoke.

2017-2018 – Boreham Wood (Loan) 4 Games – 0 Goals.

2019 – Falkirk (Loan) 12 Games – 0 Goals.

2019-2020 – Sutton United – 25 Games – 3 Goals

2020 – Hemel Hempstead (Loan) 6 Games – 1 Goal

2020-2022 – Scunthorpe United – 32 Games – 4 Goals

2022-2024 – Torquay United – 56 Games – 24 Goals

Aaron Jarvis

KEY STRENGTHS

Local – One thing that has been a pattern of our recruitment over recent seasons is our ability to pull the best local players to Huish Park. This has continued in the current summer window with signings such as, Harvey Greenslade, from Bristol Rovers and Brett McGavin from Torquay. Aaron Jarvis follows this pattern, also from Torquay United.

National League Experience – Aaron Jarvis’ best season in his career came in the National League, in a season where his side were relegated. In the 2022/23 season, Aaron Jarvis scored 15 goals in 39 matches, despite the Gulls’ being relegated. He was one of the best strikers in the National League that season because of his physical attributes and quality in front of goal.

Player Familiarity – When joining a new club, player familiarity is always a big part of settling in, having people you know around you can make things a lot more comfortable. In his time at Torquay, Aaron Jarvis played with Brett McGavin and Frank Nouble. The forward combination of Jarvis x Nouble almost kept Torquay in the National League at the end of the 22/23 season, as they scored 8 goals between them in 9 games. In this time Torquay lost just 2 games.

Work rate  – Obviously work rate is mostly a positive thing. In my “areas to improve” I have given my reasons why I believe Jarvis presses too much, however, this can also be seen as a positive. Jarvis working hard allows us to press higher up the pitch, allowing his to sit higher and win the ball back in dangerous areas. His defensive actions are excellent because of his work-rate.

Entering His Prime – Jarvis is the oldest signing we have made this season, at just 26, which shows the way we are trying to recruit this summer. We have lots of experienced players in such as Frank Nouble, Michael Smith and Alex Whittle so bringing in a few more young talents is a good option. Aaron Jarvis joins the likes of Matt Worthington, Charlie Cooper and Jordan Maguire-Drew as the players in their prime ages of 26-28. Bringing these players in meaning they can still improve but have enough experience in the senior game to help the younger players.

Ariel Threat – One of the strongest parts of Aaron Jarvis’ game is his ability in the air. In the 2023/24 season, Jarvis made 15.1 Ariel duels per 90, winning 40% of these. I’m sure he will want to improve his success rate of the duels but he doesn’t shy away from them.

Movement – One of the most important parts to a forwards game is his off the ball movement. If you are slow and lethargic when creating space for yourself or teammates, you will miss the chance and a defender will cover your run. Jarvis is able to mix his runs up, sometimes he will come to feet to hold up the ball, other times he will spin I behind to stretch the defence.

Goal Output – In his two year spell in Devon, Jarvis has netted 24 goals in 56 games. Despite only playing 19 times for the Gulls’ last season, the big number nice scored a goal every 178 minutes, taking his tally to 9 for the season. In a team that really struggled, near the bottom end of the table, these are impressive numbers.

https://www.twitter.com/vanarama/status/1802644857552560544?s=46&t=Wqhbr9zW6SC9Vqq85Pu_MQ

AREAS TO IMPROVE

Injury Worries – Over the last year or so, Jarvis has spent lots of time in the medical room trying to recover from his injuries. Jarvis spent half of the season out with a knee injury last season, meaning he was only able to make 19 appearances for the Yellow Army. Yeovil took the risk signings injury prone players last season with likes of Rhys Murphy and Jake Hyde. It’s a risky move but one that can be awarded if he is kept fit.

Passing – In a Mark Cooper side you have to be a quality passer of the ball. His teams like to keep possession of the ball so having good ball players is vital. Jarvis man certainly isn’t a bad passer of the ball but his accuracy needs to improve. Cooper will be able to coach this into him and he will get used to style of play throughout pre season.

Overpressing – A final weakness to Jarvis’ game is one that could be said about former player, Alex Fisher. Jarvis is more agile and free-moving than Fisher, but the same things apply to this weakness. I have explained the positives of a hard worker, so here are the negatives. If Jarvis is to press hard, running from side-to-side, this could then see him out of position and away from play if Yeovil do win the ball off of the opponents. I would much rather see Jarvis be given the instructions to “stay between the penalty box lines”, to keep him in position centrally.

KEY STATS – 23/24

Stats produced by FevsFootball.

General Passing;

  • Passes Per 90 – 19.0
  • Passing Accuracy – 67%
  • Progressive Passes Per 90 – 2.5
  • Progressive Passing Accuracy – 64%
  • Passes to Final Third Per 90 – 2.9
  • Passes to Final Third Accuracy – 61%

Creative Passing:

  • Key Passes Per 90 – 0.35
  • Passes to Penalty Area Per 90 – 1.26
  • Passing to Penalty Area Accuracy – 48%
  • Through Passes Per 90 – 0.15
  • Through Passing Accuracy – 67%
  • Crosses Per 90 – 0.56
  • Crossing Accuracy – 45%

On The Ball:

  • Touches in Box Per 90 – 3.4
  • Dribbles Per 90 – 2.1
  • Dribble Success Rate – 56%
  • Fouls suffered Per 90 – 2.7

Goals/Assists/Shots:

  • Shots Per 90 – 2.73
  • Shots on Target – 39%
  • xG Per 90 – 0.51
  • Goals Per 90 – 0.45
  • Conversion Rate – 17%
  • Assists Per 90 – 0.05

Duels: 

  • Offensive Duels Per 90 – 13.2
  • Offensive Duels Won – 29%
  • Defensive Duels Per 90 – 2.9
  • Defensive Duels Won – 60%
  • Ariel Duel Per 90 – 15.1
  • Ariel Duels Won – 40%
  • Loose Ball Duels Per 90 – 8.8
  • Loose Ball Duels Won – 37%

HOW WILL HE FIT IN?

In this picture above I have provided a squad update which shows what sort of role I believe Aaron Jarvis will take up in this Yeovil side. With the incomings of two strikers so far this summer in Jarvis and Greenslade, our forward options are improving drastically. I believe that Jarvis will be our starting striker next season because of his experience and proven record of goals at National League level for Torquay.

With the 4231 formation being the likely tactic that Cooper applies next season, Jarvis is likely to be used as a single striker, with three just behind him, probably including Frank Nouble. I’m sure we will see the brilliant linkup of Nouble and Jarvis, similar to what we saw at Torquay at the end of the 2022/23 season.

This is shown in the photo below.

Similar to all of my other analysis’ I will explain what sort of role Jarvis would play in a 5 at the back formation, which is sometimes used by Cooper when we are leading or lacking the wide players.

The photo below shows how we will probably line up if we do play a 5 at the back. Jarvis and Nouble would make a fantastic partnership up top with Jordan Young playing behind them. The width comes from the wingbacks, who will be given a licence to get forward and deliver crosses into the box, which play to the strengths of Jarvis and Nouble.


CONCLUSION

I really like this signing, I think it adds a lot of quality and depth to our front line. We have brought in a player who is entering his prime at 26, so should be in peak performance. Jarvis has a lot of experience to help improve Harvey Greenslade whilst also giving us quality going into this season.

His previous link up with Frank Nouble at Torquay has the potential to cause serious issues for opponents as they are aware of each others strengths and have proven records with one another.

If we can keep Jarvis fit I believe we have a player who can score us 15-20 goals next season but that is the most important thing. We MUST keep him fit, whether that means bringing him off earlier in games or resting him in a busy period.

Overall, I am a big fan of the signing and I can see it being a successful acquisition.

What are your thoughts on the signing?

As I have previously stated, any feedback or comments are massively appreciated and taken on board. I hope you enjoyed the read, Thankyou!

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Signing number five of the window is through the Huish Park doors, as Yeovil Town sign former Hampton & Richmond fullback, Jordan Thomas on a 2-year deal. The 23 year-old will be looking to settle down in his career after playing for a couple clubs after leaving Norwich City.

In this article I will be doing an analysis on Jordan Thomas. The article will include:

  • Player Profile
  • Previous History
  • Key Strengths
  • Areas To Improve
  • Key Stats – 23/24
  • How he suits the “Mark Cooper System”
  • Conclusion

Enjoy the read! Any feedback would be massively appreciated as I continue to analyse every signing the Glovers’ make this summer. I would also be interested in hearing your opinion on the signing of Jordan Thomas and how the summer has gone so far?

New signing Jordan Thomas.
Picture courtesy of YTFC.

Player Profile

  • Name: Jordan Thomas
  • Position: Defender (Right Back or Right Wingback)
  • Age: 23 (2/1/01)
  • Height: 6ft (182cm)
  • Strong Foot: Right
  • Previous Club: Hampton & Richmond
  • 23/24 Season Stats: 2707 minutes – 30 games – 1 goal – 1 assist

Previous History

2020 – Signs his first professional contract at Norwich City.

2020-2021 – Norwich City – 1 Game – 0 Goals.

2020-2021 – Leyton Orient (Loan) 1 Game – 0 Goals.

2021 – 2023 – Barnet – 27 Games – 0 Goals.

2023 – 2024 – Hampton & Richmond – 41 Games – 3 Goals.

Jordan Thomas

Key Strengths

National League Experience – In his short career, Thomas has had a stint of football in the National League Premier, with Barnet, where the right back made 27 appearances for the Bees’ in 2 seasons, joining the club following his release from Norwich. Any sort of experience will be helpful coming into this season and he will certainly gain much more this season, alongside Michael Smith.

Good Age – I have absolutely loved our recruitment so far this season. We have signed young, hungry players who have a desire to improve and help the team. At 23, Jordan Thomas has played a good amount of senior football, including an appearance in the Premier League, against Man City but is of an age where he has plenty of room to develop and grown.

Perfect Understudy – When I was going through our squad, thinking of what positions we need to sign players in this season, one of the harder options was a backup right back. We have found someone who will push Michael Smith to the limits for a starting spot but probably play the role of an understudy in the early parts of the 2024/25 season. Smith will be able to coach and improve Thomas perfectly, whilst Cooper gives him the correct amount of game time to improve. As the season goes on and we head into next season, Thomas will probably become starter.

Gets Forward – Mark Cooper asks a lot of his fullbacks to get forward and be involved in our offensive style, especially the right sided full back. This is certainly one of the strongest parts to Thomas’ game, he can deliver with real quality and link up really well with the right sided forward. He has pace and agility so I would back him in a race against most players.

Dribbling – I think the strongest part to his game is probably his dribbling. When playing for Hampton & Richmond, Thomas completed 2.1 successful dribbles per 90. This means he is a real threat when running 1-on-1 at an opposition defender and can create chances for himself by taking on his man.

A View into the Future – As with all of our other signings this season, we have brought in younger players around the experience we already had, on 2 year-deals to give us a good squad to build around in future years. We have signed these players to develop and improve before either selling for profit or staying in our squad, gaining experience and build with our squad as we progress.

Areas To Improve

Fitness Question Marks – Jordan Thomas has struggled with injuries over recent seasons, at both Barnet and Hampton. Hopefully he has got over these injury issues and he can come in and be a vital part of our National League season, however, there are concerns over his fitness issues.

Struggled at NL Level – The 23 year-old does have some experience at National League level, however, he did struggle in his time at Barnet where he played just 27 times over two seasons. He will be hoping for a better showing  in step 1 this time round.

Passing Accuracy – In the National League South last season, Jordan Thomas had a passing accuracy percentage of 71%, for a Mark Cooper side this is fairly poor, so will need to be improved going into next season.

Defensive Smartness – One thing that the former Norwich City man needs to improve on is his defensive smartness. He can sometimes get caught out of position, either too high up the pitch or perhaps too deep. He also gets caught at the back post on some occasions where he isn’t concentrating or switched on so the opposition player has a tap in.

Key Stats – 23/24

Stats produced by FevsFootball.

General Passing:

  • Passes Per 90 – 26.4
  • Passing Accuracy – 71%
  • Long Passes Per 90 – 3.4
  • Long Passing Accuracy – 44%
  • Progressive Passes Per 90 – 7.1
  • Progressive Passing Accuracy – 60%
  • Passes Into Final Third Per 90 – 4.1
  • Passes Into Final Third Accuracy – 57%

Creative Passing:

  • Passes To Penalty Area Per 90 – 2.19
  • Passes To Penalty Area Accuracy – 55%
  • Through Passes Per 90 – 0.23
  • Through Passing Accuracy – 29%
  • Crosses Per 90 – 2.16
  • Crossing Accuracy – 44%

On The Ball:

  • Dribbles Per 90 – 2.1
  • Dribble Success Rate – 49%
  • Touches In Box Per 90 – 1.1
  • Progressive Runs Per 90 – 0.5
  • Fouled Per 90 – 0.7

Duels:

  • Offensive Duels Per 90 – 5.0
  • Offensive Duels Won – 39%
  • Defensive Duels Per 90 – 7.9
  • Defensive Duels Won – 67%
  • Ariel Duels Per 90 – 3.1
  • Ariel Duels Won – 41%
  • Loose Ball Duels Per 90 – 3.2
  • Loose Ball Duels Won – 41%

Defensive Actions:

  • Shots Blocked Per 90 – 0.3
  • Interceptions Per 90 – 5.1
  • Sliding Tackles Per 90 – 0.7
  • Fouls Per 90 – 0.5

How Will He Fit In?

In the picture above, I have planned out what our current squad depth is looking like, where I believe players will be positioned and who starts. With the incoming of right back Jordan Thomas, it is important to remember that we have the vastly experienced head of Michael Smith at right back as well. As we know, having good levels of squad depth is important, especially when you can fill a bench of 7 players next season. (Aaron Jarvis is also named in this picture, I will be doing an analysis of him very soon)!

I believe that Jordan Thomas has been brought in as the perfect understudy to 35 year-old Michael Smith for this upcoming season, where his minutes will likely come off the bench or in rotation with Smith. As the season goes on I can see Thomas playing more minutes, as Smith begins to fatigue. This is the perfect development stage for Thomas’ career.

When Thomas does play, he is likely to pick up a position as a right back in a 4231 formation, where he will be expected to get forward, making overlapping or the occasional inverted run inside, to create space for our wide attackers and get involved in our attacking play. This is a big strength of Jordan Thomas’ game as he likes to get forward and pull good quality crosses into the box.

As shown above, if Jordan Thomas is going to start, he is most likely going to play in the right back position, with a left footed, right winger ahead of him to create space for both. If Jordan Thomas creates an overlapping run, this will pull the fullback away from Jordan Young, who can drive inside and cause the opposition serious problems.

As I explained when we signed Finn Cousin-Dawson, Mark Cooper has sometimes used a 3/5 at the back formation if we are defending a lead and want to sit on the result we have.

In this formation, Jordan Thomas would be useful as a right wingback where he is the main source of width in the side. His job in the team would be to keep tight to the touch line wherever possible to stretch the opposition. He would be a real threat in this position because his main strengths come in the final third, where it would give him the maximum amount of opportunities to deliver with quality. This is shown below:

Despite this option, I feel that our preferred formation next season will definitely be a 4231, so Jordan Thomas will be utilised, mainly, as a right back, in a back 4.

Conclusion

I am a fan of this signing by Mark Cooper, I think Thomas adds brilliant depth to our right back position, bringing in quality cover for the aging Michael Smith. It is another signing which looks into the future, on a 2 year-deal so the 23 year-old is able to develop around the squad.

He may take a bit of coaching to understand the Mark Cooper style but then most signings do.

Two things that worry me about the signing of Jordan Thomas is his injury record in recent seasons and secondly his last experience at National League level for Barnet. He will have a lot of experience to help him along this time round, you couldn’t ask for anyone better than Michael Smith!

Overall, I think this signing will pay off towards the end of this coming season, into the next as Thomas is the perfect understudy to learn from Michael Smith.

What are your thoughts on the signing?

As I have previously stated, any feedback or comments are massively appreciated and taken on board. I hope you enjoyed the read, thankyou!

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Signing number three is in through the door as Yeovil Town announce the signing of former Bradford City defender, Finn Cousin-Dawson. The 21 year-old has signed a contract keeping him at Huish Park until 2026. The former Northern Ireland U21, spent last season on loan at Blyth Spartans, where he became one of the best young defenders in the National League North.

In this article I will be doing a detailed analysis on Finn Cousin-Dawson. The article will include:

  • Player Profile
  • Previous History
  • Key Strengths
  • Areas To Improve
  • Key Stats – 23/24
  • How he suits the “Mark Cooper System”
  • Conclusion

Enjoy the read! Any feedback would be massively appreciated as I continue to analyse every signing the Glovers’ make this summer. I would also be interested in hearing your opinion on the signing of Finn Cousin-Dawson and how the summer has gone so far?

Player Profile

Name: Finn Cousin-Dawson

Position: Defender (Centre Back or Right Back)

Age: 21 (4/7/02)

Height: 6ft (183cm)

Strong Foot: Right

Previous Club: Bradford City – Blyth Spartans (Loan)

23/24 Season Stats: 4237 Minutes – 43 Games – 3 Goals

Finn Cousin-Dawson

Previous History

2019 – Signs his first professional contract at Bradford City.

2019-2020 – Brighouse Town (Loan) 7 Games – 0 Goals

2021-2022 – Makes 7 appearances for Northern Ireland U21s.

2022-2023 – Spennymoor Town (Loan) 21 Games – 0 Goals

2023 – Blyth Spartans (Loan) 15 Games 0 Goals

2023-2024 – Blyth Spartans (Loan) 44 Games 3 Goals

2024 – Released by Bradford City after making 34 appearances for the Bantams, scoring no goals.

Finn Cousin-Dawson

Key Strengths

Exciting Talent – Similar to the signing of Harvey Greenslade, Cousin-Dawson is coming in with a real view into the future for this Yeovil side, potentially staying around for a few seasons and then making a good amount of profit in the future. He was playing for Northern Ireland Under 21s at 18-19 years-old.

Senior Experience – The National League is one of the toughest leagues in the country so having experience in senior football is vital for a young player. Despite being just 21, Finn Cousin-Dawson has played over 100 games in senior football, from playing for Bradford in League Two, to Blyth Spartans in the National League North.

Football League Minutes – To have played 34 games in League Two at such a young age shows that he must be a very exciting talent. When playing for Bradford in League Two, he didn’t exactly disappoint either. I doubt they will be his last minutes in the Football League.

Versatility – As we found out, at the end of last season, having a big squad or having players available to us, who can play in multiple positions, is absolutely vital when we get towards the business end. As well as being brilliant at centre back, Cousin-Dawson is comfortable at right back. He can also do a job in a defensive midfield position because of his athleticism and quality in the ball.

Strong Defender -You will hear a lot about Cousin-Dawson’s quality on the ball but don’t let that take away from him defensively. For his age, he is very powerful into challenges and reads the game very well. Him being in a poor side, like Blyth, who were relegated from the National League North, did him no favours. He was still one of the best defenders at the level despite problems around him. This is shown from the chat below, created by Ben Pearson.

NLN centre backs

Excellent Passing Range – There is no doubt that the most exciting part of Finn Cousin-Dawson’s game is his quality on the ball. From this chart below, also by Ben Pearson, we can see that he is always willing to create chances with his progressive passes. He made the 4th most completed passes in the whole of the National League North last season, for a side who got relegated, this is very impressive.

NLN Centre Backs

Composure – His composure is top quality which allows us to build out from the back really well and punish teams who press really high. When he gets the ball with pressure on him he isn’t going to hit it long every time, he will take risks to keep the game ticking and create space for us to play. This suits Mark Cooper perfectly.

Areas To Improve

Location – The two previous signings have both come from local clubs, Torquay and Bristol Rovers, so the time to settle in and get used to the area was a lot less. Coming from Bradford, Finn Cousin-Dawson has never played his football down, in the South West so it may take some time to get used to the area.

National League Experience -Despite having over 100 senior appearances under his belt, at just 21 years-old, none of these have come in the National League Premier. He will have to understand the fairly quickly so he can get up to the correct pace of the game to show us what he can do.

Leadership – This one is fairly expected for a young lad like Cousin-Dawson and doesn’t really matter when you have leaders like Morgan Williams, Jake Wannell and Michael Smith around him but it’s always nice to have the trait which should be able to get trained into him by the leaders of the group.

Key Stats – 23/24

Stats produced by FevsFootball

General Passing:

  • Passes Per 90 – 50.2
  • Passing Accuracy – 83%
  • Long Passes Per 90 – 8.7
  • Long Passing Accuracy – 48%
  • Progressive Passes Per 90 – 12.2
  • Progressive Passing Accuracy – 65%
  • Passes to Final Third Per 90 – 6.4
  • Passing to Final Third Accuracy – 55%

Duels:

  • Defensive Duels Per 90 – 5.5
  • Defensive Duels Won – 74%
  • Offensive Duels Per 90 – 1.9
  • Offensive Duels Won -49%
  • Ariel Duels Per 90 – 5.8
  • Ariel Duels Won – 61%
  • Loose Ball Duels Per 90 – 3.7
  • Loose Ball Duels Won – 62%

Defensive Actions:

  • Shots Blocked Per 90 – 0.5
  • Interceptions Per 90 – 4.5
  • Sliding Tackles Per 90 – 0.3
  • Fouls Per 90 – 0.7

How will he fit in?

In the post above, I have planned out what I believe the current squad looks like, where players will be positioned etc. It is important to remember that we still have the brilliant defensive partnership of Morgan Williams and Jake Wannell so Finn Cousin-Dawson has to impress to get into the team. It leaves us with three top quality defenders to work with next season meaning we have brilliant cover in case of a suspension or injury.

If Finn Cousin-Dawson does play, he will most likely be introduced as a right side central defender in a back 4, alongside Jake Wannell to give a good balance of having one right footer and one left footer.

It is important to note that the 21 year-old can also play right back, if needed, which gives us another option in that position, just in case of any injury to Michael Smith. I think it’s fair to say he will be most regularly used as a right side centre back, as shown below.

People may not be the biggest fan of 3/5 at the back however, for the sake of the analysis it has to be mentioned. The signing of Cousin-Dawson means that we have 3 brilliant central defenders in the building, leaving one out will be a tough task for Cooper.

This signing could potentially mean that we lean towards a back 3 at times this season, with Williams as the central defender, having Wannell and Cousin-Dawson either side. With his quality on the ball and ability to get forward, Finn Cousin-Dawson would massively suit a 3 at the back system which allows us to have all of the control in the game and dominate the ball.

As shown below, the 3 at the back system could look something like this:

Despite having this option, I think the main formation we will use next season will be a 4 at the back however, it is always good to have another option and be versatile with formations. If we are in a position where we need to see out a game, this would be a brilliant way to do this, whilst keeping hold of possession and dominating the ball.

Conclusion

As of writing this, on Thursday morning, this is probably our best signing to date. He gives us a fantastic option at the back, as cover to Morgan Williams and Michael Smith. Recruiting versatile options is a massive help, come the end of the season, when dealing with lots of injuries. I think Cousin-Dawson will find it tough to be a starter right away but he will certainly make an impact when called upon.

He suits the way Mark Cooper wants to play perfectly because of his quality on the ball and his way to build from the back. With the amount of progressive passes he makes per game, it shows that he is more than just a “pass sideways” player. He has the ability to pick out a long pass or a driven pass through the lines into the striker feet.

The age profile of this signing and the other ones made, so far, really excites me, as it shows we are building a strong side for the future, which allows Cooper to develop the side to suit his style.

What are your thoughts on the signing?

As I have previously stated, any feedback or comments are massively appreciated and taken on board. I hope you enjoyed the read, thankyou!

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Yeovil announced the signing of Harvey Greenslade this week, a 20-year-old forward who had just been released from Bristol Rovers after plenty of loans – including at National League Oxford City last season. Greenslade’s signing was the kick off of the club’s summer incoming, but there’s still plenty to press on with.

It’s an annual tradition for a the onset of mild (sometimes major) panic amongst pockets supporters. “Oh they’re doing a lot of business…why aren’t we signing them? We’re doomed!” Seeing clubs like Barnet, Forest Green and even York City completing signings shouldn’t panic us. Those clubs will be shopping in very different aisles to us for various reasons, including their locations and budgets.

Harvey Greenslade. Picture courtesy of YTFC.

I understand some of the concern, though. In 2022, we spoke to then manager Chris Hargreaves who spoke about having his 1st, 2nd and 3rd choice targets. He whetted the appetite with talks of Ed Uspon and Josh Neufville as players he’d spoken to. Clearly, for circumstances outside of his control (if you categorise believing a charlatan as that) he wasn’t able to recruit nor attract the players he anticipated with the budget he was given and the season ended disastrously. (For a plethora of reasons, obviously!)

Clearly it’s important to get some business done early if you can, but it has to be right. Last season Yeovil moved early to sign Jamie Sendles-White (31st May) Rhys Murphy (9th June), Josh Owers (12th June) and Jake Hyde (14th June) . Then when the season got underway, we moved to sign Joe Day and Michael Smith.

Greenslade’s arrival was a surprise, the rumour mill has been speculating that Aaron Jarvis from Torquay was all but done – and has been for a while. With Gary Johnson’s appointment at Cheltenham confirmed, now it looks like Jarvis could be joining his old boss at the Robins in League Two.

Last season, Cooper had more hits than misses with his signings and you could say, until the stewardship set sail, he’d done okay with next to no resources. As Martin Hellier said on Episode 340 of the Gloverscast, the whole club has to find efficiencies, including the playing side. Cooper will have to spend wisely and sell the project to prospects – as he did last season – and maybe hope for another Day – Smith style availability once the season is up and running.

Yeovil aren’t going to be every player’s first choice,  but when I look at our core and current squad, I don’t think Cooper needs to reinvent the wheel – if our ambitions are to stabilise in the National League. The back four is set (providing Whittle recovers from the injuries he suffered at the end of last season), there’s a good base for a midfield. Clearly the priorities are in the striking department, in goal and then squad players to provide cover. I would like a ball carrier in midfield if one can be found, though.

Plenty of clubs in the National League haven’t brought anyone in yet, and when you look at the released lists across the country, there is a dearth of players out there. I trust the manager to find them.

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Yeovil Town have signed former Bristol Rovers forward, Harvey Greenslade, on a two-year deal, after his contract expired at Rovers. The 20-year-old comes in as the Glovers first signing of the transfer window, looking to make a massive impact on our first season back in the National League.

In this article I will be doing an analysis on Harvey Greenslade. The article will include:

  • Player Profile
  • Key Strengths
  • Areas to Improve
  • How he suits the “Mark Cooper System”
  • Previous History
  • Conclusion

Enjoy the read! Any feedback would be massively appreciated as I am going to do one of these for EVERY signing we make through the upcoming season so I will be wanting to improve my work every time. Also, give me your thoughts on the signing of Harvey Greenslade!

Harvey Greenslade. Picture courtesy of YTFC.

Player Profile

Name: Harvey Greenslade
Position: Forward (Striker)
Age: 20 (08/04/06)
Height: 6ft 1in (186cm)
Strong Foot: Right
Previous Club: Bristol Rovers – Oxford City (Loan)
Oxford City Stats: 1024 minutes – 16 games – 3 goals
23/24 Season Stats: 2500 minutes – 35 games – 7 goals

 
Harvey Greenslade. Picture courtesy of YTFC.

Key Strengths

High potential – One thing that could be vitally important about this transfer is the ceiling of Greenslade’s game. Not only is he a talented footballer in the current moment, he has the potential to improve massively and climb up the leagues with us. There is also a possibility of making some profit off of Greenslade because of how young he is.

Desire to improve – One thing that is important for young players to have, is a desire and motivation to develop their game. This means he is going to put maximum effort in, when pressing his man or running in behind. Having a willingness to develop your game means you are likely to try and perform at a high standard to improve.

Local Based – In his time at Huish Park, Mark Cooper has openly said he wants to recruit locally to build a really tight group that will fight together and be desperate to win. He has proven this with signings such as, Jake Wannell, Jay Foulston and Dylan Morgan, just to name a few.

Familiar Bonds – In his senior career so far, Greenslade has made appearances for teams such as Tiverton, Oxford City, Chippenham and Truro. When playing for Chippenham Town, he was playing alongside winger Jordan Young, who had a fantastic season in Green and White last season. Greenslade scored one goal in his short spell at Chippenham, Jordan Young assisted it!

Physical Benefits – Despite being just 20 years-old, Harvey Greenslade has a lot of Physical attributes which make him really dangerous and suits the type of striker Cooper wants. At 6ft 1, he brings some good height to the front line where he will be able to win headers. He is very quick in behind and pressing opposition defenders, this could cause trouble with players like Young and Morgan either side! One thing that did surprise me was seeing how strong he is for his age. He isn’t afraid to bully defenders and beat them in duels.

Clinical Finishing – One thing we are desperate for after last season is a forward, who will stay fit but has devastating finishing and a real composure in front of goal. Greenslade had this from such an early age, which could help him become a brilliant player if he can continue to tidy up the rest of his game.

Areas to Improve

Inexperienced -Despite the excitement of his age and how much potential he has, there is certainly a lack of experience in his game. This will come with game time, so the best way to improve his knowledge of the game is give him plenty of minutes. He had a successful season last year in terms of minutes played, at Oxford City and Truro he picked up a mass of 2500 minutes! He won’t be coming into the National League cold, as he played 16 games for, relegated, Oxford City last season.

Hold-up play – At such a young age, you would be lucky to find a player who has brilliant hold-up play, with his back to goal. This is something Greenslade needs to work on next season, he could become a massive asset to the team if he continues to work on it.

Winning Mentality – In his loan spells from Bristol Rovers, he spent most of his time on the side that doesn’t win the game. True City had a decent start to their season but dropped off fairly quick, whereas, Oxford City were relegated from the National League! That being said, winning mentality has been engraved into our current players over the previous season, hopefully they can push that across to Greenslade.

Link-up Play -This will come with experience, the more he plays for the Glovers the more he will become used to the play style and needs of a forward under Mark Cooper. Being able to sit in a bit deeper and play a 1-2 with a winger is a vital part of the way we play. He will have a full pre season to understand the “Mark Cooper System” which should help him massively!

Harvey Greenslade

How will he fit in?

The first key factor I think we need to understand with Greenslade is that he is only 20-years-old. He has plenty of time to develop his style of play, in a very short space of time. This will be a bonus for Mark Cooper as he can use Greenslade’s physical benefits to mould him into a “Mark Cooper” striker.

Being such a young forward, pre-season is such a vital part of how is career pans out at Huish Park. If he can get firing in our friendlies, he should start the season with real confidence. He may not be a starter straight away but I’m sure he will have a vital impact from the bench.

We know Cooper likes to rotate his formations around but I believe he will mainly use the 4231, similar to last season, with Frank Nouble in the “number 10” free-roam position. In my opinion the formation will look something like what I have shown below. I have noted Greenslade to be as a substitute striker as I believe someone else, with more experience will come in.

The current squad. As of 29th of May.

Personality wise, I feel Greenslade will fit in perfectly. He is from the South West, like many other players in the squad, meaning he won’t take long to settle in. He is a young player who has a motivation and desire to improve, which matches the sort of person Cooper loves to coach and develop.

Previous History

2021 – Signed his first Professional contract at Bristol Rovers. 

2021 – Cinderford Town (Loan) 3 Games – 0 Goals

2021 – Tuffley Rovers (Loan) 8 Games 5 Goals

2022 – Tiverton Town (Loan) 3 Games 0 Goals

2022/2023 –  Chippenham Town (Loan) 10 Games 1 Goal

2023 – Truro City (Loan) 13 Games 4 Goals

2023 – Truro City (Loan) 19 Games 4 Goals

2024 – Oxford City (Loan) 16 Games 3 Goals

2024 – Released by Bristol Rovers after making 0 appearances for the club in 3 years.

Harvey Greenslade Shots and Goals – Oxford City 23/24

Conclusion

I really like this signing personally, I feel it adds some real depth to our squad in the forward position. Greenslade is a player who has clearly been brought in as a “project player”, being only 20 years-old he is someone who we can plan future squads around and hopefully keep him around for a while. A bonus to this signing is that if he has a very strong season, and gets taken off of our hands by a superior club, we will make some money.

I like the fact he is local, It gives a real feeling of having a tight-knit group.

I think he a striker who suits the exact style of number 9 Cooper wants, a physical build but someone who can run in behind with pace and power. Him being young is only a bonus and the fact he performed well in a poor Oxford City side last season, proves he’s ready for the National League!

What are your thoughts on the signing?

I hope you enjoyed the read, as I previously stated, any feedback would be massively appreciated!

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I have kept putting my next blog off. The main reason during the second half of season the data which I was seeing could be viewed as negative. For those of you who might be sceptical of data or struggle to understand xG. I highly recommend reading ‘The expected goals philosophy’ by James Tippett.

“rejecting the Expected Goals method, a new type of analysis which questions the conventional wisdom of football, is much easier than advocating it.”

I will be looking at xG (Expected Goals) and xGA (Expected Goals Against). From this I will calculate xPts (Expected Points). xPts is normally calculated using the Monte Carlo method, more here on that.  For NLS due to the data I have had available, I have used an xG differential and expected points from that, I have used the following:

xG Differential xPoints
1.5+ 2.7
1.5 < 1 2.3
1 < 0.5 2
0.5 < 0 1.5
0 < -0.5 0.7
-0.5 < -1 0.5
-1 < -1.5 0.3
< -1.5 0.1

For context here is the Premier League table Expected Points vs Actual Points. You can tell who the teams who over-performed  or under-performed their data. Image from https://twitter.com/xGPhilosophy.

From this we can see the top three were expected to be clear of the rest. Villa and Spurs can count themselves fortunate to finish in the top five and Newcastle unlucky to miss out on the Champions League. Manchester United were lucky to finish as high as they did, massively outperforming their expected points.

Lets dive into Yeovil’s data by fixture. The table below shows actual goals scored and conceded vs expected goals and goals conceded. It also shows points earned and expected points and how the compare by fixture. Pts v xPts if the number is negative this shows that Yeovil have been unlucky while green shows them being lucky in picking up more points.

You can see during the winning streak Yeovil had luck on their side, however in three of the four games after the winning run they were extremely unlucky not to pick up more points. You can also see a decrease in form after Christmas. The 16 games between St Albans away to Worthing at home, Yeovil lost 11 of the 17 on xG. Interestingly, Rhys Murphy and Jake Hyde were missing for this full period.

Here is the NLS Expected Points Table:

As you can see, from Mark Cooper’s sides’ performances over the season – on expected points – should have seen them finish in 6th. Worthing and Slough would have had a battle for the title based on this.  Before Adam Hinshelwood left for York, Worthing were quite a bit clear. It could well be the reason why York moved for him when they did. You can see the last Expected Points table I published in late January here: https://twitter.com/hoopsss/status/1750855887843905932.

Here is the full league table with expected points and xG included:

Let us know what you make of the data, and Yeovil’s performance levels over the season in the comments.