Match Previews

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Yeovil Town travel to the South Coast as they take on Eastleigh down in Hampshire on Easter Monday afternoon.

FORM…

YEOVIL TOWN

The back end of this season has been more up and down than a heartbeat monitor. We win two games, lose two game and then win another game. The inconsistency would be worrying if we were’t all but safe and it wasn’t the end of the campaign, the only thing I hope with this spell is that it doesn’t carry into next season.

In the last game it was another case of fatigue being the name of the game for Yeovil, although they ended up winning 1-0 to relegate Truro City on Good Friday. It says a lot for how tired the squad is when the goal comes from the newest player in the team, Southampton Under-21s Will Merry, in the 95th minute. Even the newer loan recruits have looked jagged, but we were all merry at the end of that Truro game.

Will Merry wheels away | Photo by Gary Brown

EASTLEIGH

It’s been tough for the Spitfires over recent game, with just four points since the 25th February. That run of poor form has left Eastleigh in 20th position, hovering around the relegation zone. With other teams around them now picking up points, they will be up for this match.

One of those four points was in the Spitfires most recent game a at Woking on Good Friday. That match was one of either poor defending or great goalscoring, depending on which side of the fence you sit. The fixture finished 3-3 with Eastleigh 3-1 up with 15 minutes to go, but did end a run of four straight defeats.

KEY PLAYERS…

YEOVIL TOWN – JED WARD

It was the Jed Ward show again on Good Friday, and I’m thankful for him being in this side this season. As I’ve said many a time this season, the on loan Bristol Rovers’ keeper is one of, if not the main reason we have stayed in games and even won games. The last games was no different. The 22-year-old showed once again why I would not be surprised if he is his parent clubs first choice next season.

It was multiple great saves from the shot stopper that kept the Glovers going during a tired looking first half. I think we can safely put our player of the month in the conversation for one of great loan players here at Huish Park.

Jed Ward and Josh Sims
Pic c/o Gary Brown

EASTLEIGH – AARON BLAIR

Blair has been in the same rut as his team in the last month and a half, and his dip in form may have contributed to some of the poor form. However, he has arguably been the best player for the Hampshire side this season. With four games left of the campaign, the 25-year-old has been the go to man when his side have needed a goal.

The forward has scored 15 times so far this term and although he hasn’t found the net since his double against Brackley Town a month ago. He did however chip in with two assist last time out. But one thing that is for sure he will be wanting to put the current drought to bed.

THE GAFFER…

Eastleigh will be welcoming Yeovil to the Silverlake Stadium with an interim boss at the helm. The man in charge is Richard Hill, a man that may be not known to many. The 62-year-old had a playing career that spanned 10-years from 1982-1992, featuring for the likes of Northampton, Watford and Oxford United during that time.

Since retiring from playing, Hill has had a very nomadic career, from being advisor to the Ethiopian national team to managing FC Kairat in the Kazakhstan Premier league. When closer to home, the Hinkley man has been in charge at Stevenage, Whitehawk and Eastleigh on three previous occasions.

Surprisingly, Hill has never managed a game against the Glovers.

LAST TIME WE MET…

Eastleigh has been a bit of a bogey team for Yeovil in recent seasons with no wins since 2023. The previous fixture between the sides was at the end of December, when they drew 1-1. Yeovil took the lead in 28th minute through Luke McCormick, before Aaron Blair netted a penalty on the stroke of half-time.

Luke McCormick scoring against Eastleig for Yeovil Town.
Luke McCormick scoring against Eastleigh.

The last game in Hampshire was a win for the home side thanks to a Chris Maguire goal in the first half.

DON’T I KNOW YOU…

Sam Pearson is an ex-Glover who is on the books at Eastleigh, but the Welsh winger will not be featuring against his old employers on Easter Monday.

He has been on loan at National League South promotion chasers Dorking since March.

THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE…

Ross Martin will be the man with the whistle on Tuesday evening For more on him and his team read Ben’s article here.

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Easter weekend is here, and as with Christ returning from the dead, Yeovil Town return from their away travels to play Truro City in the league on Friday afternoon.

FORM…

YEOVIL TOWN

The Glovers will be on a hunt if their own this Good Friday, although not for eggs but for three points. After two wins on the bounce, Yeovil looked like a team rejuvenated. However, fast forward a week and Billy Rowley’s men have been beaten twice in a row and will be looking for another three points.

Last time out was a tough assignment for the Glovers as they faced a very strong Southend United side away from home, losing 2-1. It wasn’t a pretty start for Yeovil as they conceded a Gus Scott-Morriss goal in the fourth minute. Jake Wannell then found him so high up the pitch he could have got a nose bleed, but thank god he didn’t as superbly found the top left corner from the edge of box with his back to goal. For the Glovers that want enough to secure a point from Roots Hall, as Keenan Forson secured the win six minutes from time.

Jake Wannell’s superb finish.

TRURO CITY

The Tinners have picked up their form in recent weeks having not lost over their last three games. The Cornwall side do however sit bottom of the National League having only won seven games, one of which was against Yeovil. And although Truro look set to be relegated, they will be a tough opposition for the Glovers.

In their last game agaisnt Boreham Wood, the Tinners drew 0-0, but dominated possesion, and had the looked the more dangerous when going forward. Truro will also be coming off a near week long break compared to the Glovers who only played on Tuesday.

KEY PLAYERS…

YEOVIL TOWN – JED WARD

It was only a matter of time before I put him back him back in this segment. The goal keeper has been a tremendous asset for all four of Yeovil’s managers this season. He is at the base of the spine for Yeovil, and is the foundation for good play, with his distribution. Besides the more “attacking” side of the game, Ward is most loved for his defensive work.

Jed Ward in action for Yeovil Town
Jed Ward in action for Yeovil Town | Pic by Gary Brown

His ability as a shot stopper is second to none, he has grown into his role within the squad throughout the season and will definitely be missed once he loan comes to an end. Over the last couple of games Ward hasn’t been as prominent, but hopefully if we see the Jed ward we know we can, it will be a Good Friday for Yeovil.

TRURO CITY – LUKE JEPHCOTT

Jephcott has been the go to man for the Tinners when it comes to needing a goal. With six goals and four assists the ex-Plymouth man has seemed to found his scoring boots once again. It was during his time at Home Park, the striker made a name for himself with 33 league goals in 106 appearances.

The 26-year-old has matched his best ever goalscoring season since leaving the Pilrgrims in 2023 with his six goals.

THE GAFFER…

John Askey will be in the opposition dugout. The 61-year-old became boss at Cornwall’s only professional team on 2024 when Paul Wotton joined Torquay.

As a player, Askey played exclusively for Macclesfield Town, making over 500 appearances over 20 years. After hanging up his boots, the former forward would go on to manage the Cheshire side to six across two spells before leaving for pastures new in 2018.

Over the next five years, Askey would go on to manage Port Vale, York and Hartlepool. Across his 23 years in management, the Stoke man has faced Yeovil three times, winning all three.

LAST TIME WE MET…

It was a tough loss down in Cornwall for Yeovil when the two sides last met. The game was wrapped up within the first 20 minutes as Tyler Harvey bagged the only goal of the game.

Yeovil captain Jake Wannell raises a hand in apology as he leaves the pitch at Truro.

When they last played at Huish Park, it was more positive for the Glovers as they won 2-1, that game was over two years ago in August 2023. It was however close to being another defeat, as the Tinners took the lead in the 54th minute through Andrew Neal. The first of Yeovil’s saviours was Olly Thomas as he drew his side back level on the 84th minute. Six minutes later, Jake Wannell won it for his team.

DON’T I KNOW YOU…

Former Glovers goalie, Aidan Stone has ended up in Cornwall. The 28-year-old played 17 times during his career at Huish Park.

Yeovil Town goalkeeper Aidan Stone warming up ahead of the pre-season friendly with Bristol Rovers.
Aidan Stone. Picture courtesy of Gary Brown.

Another former Yeovil man is in at centre back for the Tinners in the shape or Shaun Donellan. The 29-year-old came to Somerset in 2017 and played a season at Huish Park making 25 appearances.

Ryan Law is the third former Glover now playing his trade in Cornwall. The full back signed for Yeovil on loan from Plymouth Argyle in 2022, going on to play 11 times.

Ryan Law in action for the Glovers. Picture courtesy of Mike Kunz.

At this point I think theTruro City Stadium has become a place for Yeovil cast off’s find a reignite their careers. This time it’s Zac Bell, the former loanee played for Yeovil in 2023/24 campaign, making 11 appearances.

Zac Bell.
Picture courtesy of Mike Kunz.

Go get the meme of the old Bristolian lady, because “not another one” as the fifth former Yeovil man in the Truro side is Harry Kite. The midfielder signed as free agent last season, but would only go on to play seven times for Yeovil.

Harry Kite celebrates with his teammates. Photo by Gary Brown.

THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE…

Lewis Sandoe will be the man with the whistle on Tuesday evening For more on him and his team read Ben’s article here.

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It’s a third away game in a row for Yeovil Town, as the travel to Essex to face Southend United on Tuesday night.

FORM…

YEOVIL TOWN

The clocks may have gone forward but unfortunately the Glovers momentum stalled as they succumbed to 2-1 loss at the hands of Gateshead. After a slight pick up in form in recent games for the Green and White’s, Saturday saw a very tired side made to look like they had travelled the 350 miles they just completed.

The Glovers up against Gateshead.

Now it’s not an excuse for an average performance but it is very valid context. In the last month alone the Glovers have played eight times, twice a week or 180 minutes every seven days, with at most three days recovery. It’s not sustainable for players at this level to keep the good performances going week in, week out, so I sympathise with squad. What is less acceptable is seeing your centre back lunge into a challenge in the 93rd minute and get himself suspended for the next three games (I’m looking at you Fin Cousin-Dawson).

SOUTHEND

The Shrimpers have played well over their last five games with three wins, a draw and a loss to their name. That run of form has seen them cement their challenge for the playoffs, where they currently lie seventh in the league.

United will be riding the crest of a wave as well going into Tuesday, after they booked their place at Wembley, beating Southport 1-3 in the FA Trophy. The Shrimpers had their backs against the wall early on as they went 1-0 after Chris Sze opened the scoring. A halftime talking to was just what the Seasiders needed, as they proved their quality in the second 45 minutes. A Charlie Kendall brace bookended the scoring with for Southend with Jack Bridge also finding the back of the net.

KEY PLAYERS…

YEOVIL TOWN – JOSH SIMS

I thought I would change it up this week from the James Daly show and pick his partner in crime. Sims, started the season well and will be remembered for picking up the sack of spuds for scoring the Glovers first goal of the season. But with the change in managers and dips in out of form that brings, the 29-year-old was no different to his team mates. Even in Billy Rowley’s first few months there seemed a spark missing form the winger.

Josh Sims | Photo by Gary Brown

However, over the past month and a half, the ex-Southampton has shown why he has 20  Premier League appearances to his name. Although maybe not scoring or providing the goals that Daly does, Sims has been influential in bringing the best out of Daly and vice versa. The two of them always look like they are on the same wave length, and have been the ignition for Yeovil’s pick up in form.

It was notable on Saturday with no Sims in the squad, that Yeovil looked like they missed something.

SOUTHEND – GUS SCOTT-MORRISS

I like a goal scorer in this section, as they provide a threat, it gives Yeovil fans something to look out for. But there is something unusual about Scott-Morris that makes him stand out from every other goalscorer in the league and that is he is a centre back. It’s not often you see a defender near the top of the charts for goals but the 28-year-old is currently second for the Shrimpers, behind Andrew Dallas, with 10 goals.

Goals aren’t the only thing that Scott-Morriss has in his arsenal, he also a very good defender, providing stability to the Southend backline. The Glovers will need to watch out at both ends of the pitch for the all rounded defender.

THE GAFFER…

Kevin Maher will host the Glovers in midweek when they travel to Essex with the 49-year-old in his fourth year as manager at Roots Hall. The Londoner has been through it all during his time as boss, relegations, administration and playoff final losses to name some of his biggest challenges. Maher, is however looking to get back to the football league with his adopted club, as they currently push for the playoffs.

A former midfielder, the Ilford man, joined Southend in 1998 after being let go by Tottenham Hotspur. He would go on to make over 380 appearance for the Shrimpers over the next 10 years, before leaving for Oldham. Short stints at several other clubs followed before he retired in 2015.

During his time as a manager, Maher has faced Yeovil seven times, winning four, drawing one and losing two.

LAST TIME WE MET…

The two teams last met in November at Huish Park, when the visitors secured a 0-1 over an under pressure Richard Dryden. The only goal that day came from Slavi Spasov in added time.

Last time out against Southend for Yeovil Town
Last time out against Southend | Photo by Gary Brown

It was much happier times when the Glovers last traveled to Roots Hall however, back in November of 2024, when they took all three points thanks to a James Plant goal.

DON’T I KNOW YOU…

Just Nathan Ralph in the Southend squad that used to call Yeovil home. The Southend captain, joined the Glovers in 2012 and was a part of the League One Play-off  winning side. The 33-year-old called time on his spell at Yeovil in 2015 after playing 41 times.
Nathan Ralph Yeovil Town. Picture Courtesy of Yeovil Town.

THE WOMAN IN THE MIDDLE…

Abigail Byrne will be the woman with the whistle on Tuesday evening For more on him and his team read Ben’s article here.

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Yeovil Town have a long away trip to the Northeast on Saturday as they face Gateshead in the Enterprise National League.

FORM…

YEOVIL TOWN

What a difference a week makes. Going into last Saturday’s match against Morecambe it looked rather glum for the Glovers, no wins in three and needing to pick up points in the next three games. A good result against Morecambe and an improved performance got the team off on the right foot. Then it was onto Wednesday night against Wealdstone.

Yeovil look strong away from home a ran out 0-2 winners, even if Troy Perrett was for some harshly sent off. That red card didn’t stop the Glovers, but the stones didn’t exactly grasp the opportunity with two hands. Goals either side of the half from Terrell Works and man of the moment, James Daly secured all three points.

Wealdstone vs Yeovil. Picture courtesy of Ollie Marsh.

Now with two wins from those important fixtures, hopefully Billy Rowley‘s men can pick up nine points in a week to help stay up.

GATESHEAD

It’s fair to say the season has been turbulent for the Tynesiders. Currently sat 20th in the league, they have been hovering around there for the majority of the season. However, in the last five games they have been steadily picking up points with two wins, two draws and a loss.

It was last time out, that may put shivers down the spines of Yeovil fans as they cruised to a 3-1 win against York City. Many may right this as a one off, but even at that scoring three past a team in second is nothing to be sniffed at. and even more impressively keep York, a side with 105 goals in the league, to just the one is something that should worry any travelling supporter.

Keaton Ward gave Gateshead the lead on the stroke of halftime. Ashley Boatswain then doubled his teams advantage just after the hour mark and Louis Storey completed the rout five minutes from time. York late consolation was thanks to an Ollie Pearce goal in the third minute of added time.

KEY PLAYERS…

YEOVIL TOWN – JAMES DALY

James Daly. That’s it. I don’t know what else to say that I haven’t already said, he is quickly becoming, if not already the most integral player in the side. He may even give Luke McCormick and Jed Ward a run for their money when it comes to player of the season.

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

GATESHEAD – ADAM DESBOIS

It’s not often I give goalkeepers, beside Jed Ward, as a key player to watch. Desbois was signed at the start of March and has made an impact straight away. His been more than solid at the back for his side which has led to the rest of the team having confidence. In his seven games at the club, Gateshead have only lost once, with Desbois only conceding seven in that time. It will be a tough ask for Yeovil to break down the brick wall that is Brooks.

THE GAFFER…

Rob Elliot is back in charge for Yeovil’s visit to the north east after being reappointed as manager in January this year. Elliot will be known to most as a former Premier League keeper for nearby rivals Newcastle United. Although the 39-year-old had a long playing career spanning 20 years, he was considered a backup for most of that time.

As manager, Elliot had a great start to life when he took over at Gateshead, after retiring as player at the club. In his first season with the Tynesiders he led them to the playoffs, only to see this side barred after they could not secure a “10-year security of tenure” for their stadium. He also led Gateshead to their first ever trophy that season, when they beat Solihull Moores in the FA Trophy.

After going unbeaten to the start of the 2024/25 season, Elliot was appointed manager at Crawley Town. He was subsequently sacked as their manager in March 2025 after a run of poor results.

He has faced Yeovil twice before, winning one and losing one.

LAST TIME WE MET…

Look away Yeovil fans, or perhaps rejoice, as the last time these two sides met in August, signalled the end of Mark Cooper‘s tenure at Huish Park. What caused that end, was 3-4 defeat that the Glovers should have won. Yeovil went 3-0 up inside the first half, with goals from Josh Sims, Junior Morias and Harvey Greenslade look to give the home side an unassailable lead.

When the sides met at Huish Park in August last year.

Gateshead had other ideas, as Kyle Hirst got one back just after half-time. Ex-Glover, Frank Nouble, then got in on the action 10 minutes later. The Tyneside’s weren’t done yet as they then equalised through Kain Adom on 73 minutes. And the capitulation was complete eight minutes into stoppage time Adom got his brace and sealed the win.

DON’T I KNOW YOU…

Just the one player actually. This week the former Yeovil man is…Mark Beck. Not to be harsh on beck but his time at Huish Park was less than memorable to say the least, Which was mainly down to the fact we loaned him out to Wrexham. The centre forward played eight times for the Glovers scoring no goals.

THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE…

Dean Watson will be the man with the whistle on Saturday afternoon. For more on him and his team read Ben’s article here.

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It’s some more midweek action for Yeovil Town as they travel to Wealdstone for a crucial game in the league.

FORM…

YEOVIL TOWN

For all the criticism that I have put in recent weeks around the Glovers form, I think it’s only fair to praise them when we are coming off the back of a  3-2 win. It felt a bit a night and day watching Yeovil against Morecambe than it did watching them in the game prior at Woking. The players showed fight something their boss, Billy Rowley, has been crying out for. We scored goals, another thing we have struggled for this season and finally the match was an entertaining watch. And for all those plaudits there is some areas we could improve, especially in the quality of the game but if this how we beat the teams around us to stay up, I’ll take it any day.

The upcoming match will be a different kind of test for the Glovers as they face a tough to beat Wealdstone FC side.

Yeovil Players celebrating the opening goal. Picture courtesy of Gary Brown.

WEALDSTONE

Now, The Stones have hit the skids over the last two games with defeats to Forest Green Rovers and Gateshead respectively, but before that loss to the North-East side they had won three on the bounce. Last time out for the Londoners, was that defeat to Forest Green, but that 2-0 loss can be taken with a pinch of salt as the Gloucestershire side have been one of the more classier outfits in the league this season.

Another factor for the Stones coming into this fixture will be their semi-final against Marine in the FA Trophy. So, will they be putting a full strength side out knowing they have to be at their best on Saturday, time will tell.

KEY PLAYERS…

YEOVIL TOWN – JAMES DALY

Who needs a striker when you have James Daly. The winger has been exceptional in the back half of the season, contributing effectively with Josh Sims and Ryan Jones to build a formidable attacking three behind the striker. As well as the bond he seems to struck up with them, Daly is finding the net when others maybe have not. The winger has looked a real class act now he’s had a run of games after time out with an injury.

Saturday also showed his desire to work for the team, which was highlighted by his closing down of the Morecambe keeper in the 99th minute of the match. If we had a team full of James Daly’s, I don’t think we would be where we are in the league.

James Daly | Photo by Gary Brown

WEALDSTONE – NATHAN TSHIKUNA

The midfielder has been integral to the Stones this season with key performances dotted through out the league campaign. And although above par in the two losses recently it was in Wealdstone’s last win against Solihull that the 27-year-old stood out. And for all his good work off the ball, a goal and two assists is enough for any player to be seen as an influential.

Over the course of the season, Tshikuna has contributed well with eight goals to his name, as well as those two assists. Yeovil will need to be on high alert to keep the lively midfielder at bay.

THE GAFFER…

Gary Waddock is the manager in the home dugout, as Yeovil travel to the capital. In fact, the 64-year-old is no stranger to London, having spent the majority of his playing days in the city. The former midfielder, will be most know for his time at QPR, where he played over 200 times for the R’s. He would then go to play in Belgium for Charleroi before heading back to London, playing for Millwall. Waddock, is also no stranger to the West Country, having played 71 games for Bristol Rovers.

As a manger however, the ex-Ireland international started a QPR in 2006 but quickly left the same year. Two years at Aldershot then followed, before he left in 2009 for the bright lights of Wycombe Wanderers. After three years at the Chair Boys, Waddock was relieved of his duties. Short stints at Oxford and Pompey followed before he retuned to Aldershot in 2016, where stayed until 2019, which was his last job as a permanent manager.

The Londoner has faced the Glovers four times, losing on all four occasions.

LAST TIME WE MET…

It was a tough going for Yeovil when the sides last met in November. On a cold day at Huish Park, the Stones ran out 0-2 winners, with their goals coming from Dominic Hutchinson and Max Kretzschmar.
When the two sides last met.

You then have to go back to October of 2024 for when the two sides faced off at Grosvenor Vale. That day the Glovers took all three points in a 0-3 win thanks to goals from Brett McGavin, Aaron Jarvis and Ciaran McGuckin.

DON’T I KNOW YOU…

A couple of names for travelling fans to keep an eye out for. First of which is Anthony Georgiou played two games for Yeovil in 2022/23 when on loan from Leyton Orient.

Another Yeovil old boy that now plays for the Stones is Olufela Olomola. The forward was a bit of fan favourite during his first spell at Huish Park in 17/18, coring seven goals, whilst on loan from Southampton. Olomola would return a season later bagging three goals. He came back for a third loan spell in 21/22 scoring just the once. Across his three spells the 28-year-old would make 57 appearances in all competitions.

Oluefela Olomola playing for Yeovil Town. Picture courtesy of Mike Kunz.
Oluefela Olomola playing for Yeovil Town. Picture courtesy of Mike Kunz.

THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE…

George Laffin will be the man with the whistle on Saturday afternoon. For more on him and his team read Ben’s article here.

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An unhappy Billy Rowley

Yeovil Town are back at Huish Park on Saturday afternoon as they take on fellow strugglers Morecambe in the league.

FORM…

YEOVIL TOWN

The Glovers haven’t been at their best over the last month or so with performances dropping off. Those bad performances have resulted in losses and a slip down the table. In their last games against Woking it was more of the same for Yeovil as they lost 1-0.

The game was marred on the Glovers behalf at least by striker Aaron Jarvis receiving his 10th yellow card of the season meaning a suspension. With Jarvis out and Tahvon Campbell on loan, Billy Rowley now only has new recruit Millar Matthews-Lewis to rely on up top.

Yeovil Town players after the 1-0 defeat to Woking.
Yeovil Town players after the 1-0 defeat to Woking.

Speaking of Rowley, his damming post match interview, where he questioned his players mentality and pleaded for “some more passion” will hopefully get a spark out of his squad.

An unhappy Billy Rowley

MORECAMBE

If this was a month or so go it would be a different story. A team that was minutes away from being extinct, languishing near the bottom of the table with poor result after poor result. However, they have since parted ways with Ashvir Johal and brought in Jim Bentley, who has done a good job in getting a more consistent tune out of the side.

Over the last five games, the Shrimps have won twice, drawn twice and lost once (to York). It was a 1-1 draw for the Seasiders last time out as they faced Braintree at home, but it has been the scoring prowess of the Lancashire side that has been impressive. In the last five games they have scored 15 goals, a cause for concern for the Glovers defence.

KEY PLAYERS…

YEOVIL TOWN – MILLAR MATTHEWS-LEWIS

I feel bad for putting him in the position of key player when he has only played a handful of minutes on Tuesday night. But it shows the level of desperation we are now at that we have to rely on a very new loanee to get us going. As mentioned with Aaron Jarvis now suspended. Matthews-Lewis will need to step up in a big way on Saturday.

Millar Matthews-Lewis.

A big problem for the Glovers all season has been goals, so the hope of bringing the 21-year-old in is that he can hit the ground running. In his 24 appearance in the National League South this season the Burton Albion youngster has bagged 12 goals, something he can hopefully transfer in the step up.

MORECAMBE – JACK NOLAN

There was only one man that I could pick for this after doing some research and that is Jack Nolan. The 24-year-old is a midfielder that every manager dreams of. Technically very good, can set up a goal and even finishes them himself. In fact so far this season the midfield master has found the net 15 times, yep you read that correct.

Although performing at a good level before the arrival of Jim Bentley, Nolan has stepped it up a gear for his new boss with 10 goals in that time, six of which have come in his last three games. And what is perhaps even more impressive for you geeks out there is that he hit a match rating of 10 (on Sofascore) when Morecambe beat Sutton 5-0 two games ago.

It could be a long day for Yeovil if they don’t set up well against the tricky winger.

THE GAFFER…

As I have mentioned a couple of time already the Shrimps now have Jim Bentley in charge after dismissing Ashvir Johal. The 49-year-old is no stranger to Morecambe though serving as their manager from 2012-2019, before leaving for AFC Fylde. After three years at the Mill Farm, the Scouser was dismissed. He then went on to manage Rochdale and Southport.

Bentley also played professionally only playing for two clubs, Telford and Morecambe. It was with the Shrimps that he was most associated with playing over 300 games for the club.

As a manager Bentley has faced Yeovil nine times, winning five, drawing two and losing two.

LAST TIME WE MET…

When the two sides last locked horns the game was dull to say the least. With the match finishing 0-0. When they last faced off at Huish Park, back in 2019, however it was a much more exciting fixture, with the Glovers winning 3-2.
Yeovil went 1-0 down early on thanks to a Richie Bennett goal. They did get themselves back into the game after halftime, as a quick fire double from Tristan Abrahams put them on top. The Shrimps then equalised in the 83rd minute as Steve Old looked to have secured a share of the points, before Yeovil boy, Ryan Seager put the game to bed four minutes later.
A collector’s item. Tristan Abrahams scoring one of his two goals in a home win over Morecambe during his loan spell in 2019-20.

DON’T I KNOW YOU…

There are no former Glovers to look out for on Saturday.

THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE…

Aaron Farmer will be the man with the whistle on Saturday afternoon. For more on him and his team read Ben’s article here.

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It’s off to the Home Counties on Tuesday night as Yeovil Town take on Woking under the lights in the rescheduled fixture.

FORM…

YEOVIL TOWN

The past couple of games have probably been the worse under Billy Rowley with two poor showings in defeats to both Scunthorpe United and Boston United. Last time out was another Jekyll and Hyde performance, playing well for the first half and making ourselves look like part timers in the second 45, ultimately losing 2-1 to Boston.

The Glovers looked decent after Aaron Jarvis decided to be a striker and score a goal. But once Boston got back into the game through Jake Rooney they slowly took control. Then Yeovil old boy Jordy Hiwula bagged the winner to put claim the three points. In fact the Lincolnshire side should have probably won by more.

Yeovil vs Boston.

WOKING

The Cardinals have been in some good form recently, going unbeaten over their previous four games. In their most recent game, they were by far and away the dominant side winning 4-1 away to Brackley Town (we know how hard that can be). Those four goals carry on the great goalscoring form The Cards have been in recent times too, with 11 goals in the last five games.

Woking sit six places above the Glovers in the league, and haven’t lost at home since the 30th December.

KEY PLAYERS…

YEOVIL TOWN – RYAN JONES

I picked out jones a couple of games ago due to him picking up the slack of some of our strikers. And although he hasn’t scored since for a coupe of games, he is still making an impact.

It was the 23-year-old’s double act with Josh Sims that looked most dangerous against Boston. With the two combining multiple times and always looking a threat. Although their endeavour may have not resulted in a goal, it’s encouraging to see some link up play and the beginnings of pairing that may rival that of Ant and Dec.

WOKING – OLLY SANDERSON

It seems that every club in the league has a striker that finds the back of the net on a regular basis and Woking are no different. The Surrey sides goal threat comes in the shape of the 6ft Olly Sanderson, who is on loan from Fulham. Even at 22-years-old Sanderson has been exposed to a fair bit of senior football, with loans at Oxford City, Sutton, Bradford and Harrogate. This is however his best in terms of scoring with 12 goals to date.

In his last game against Brackley, the striker did bag two goals to add to his season tally.

THE GAFFER…

It’s a bit of a weird one this weekend with three players also taking charge. After Neal Ardley was sacked at the beginning of the month back up keeper Craig Ross has taken charge with his support team being that of two former Glovers Dale Gorman and Jake Hyde.

This is Ross’ first foray into management and it’s fair to say it’s gone well. Since taking over at the beginning of the month, the 36-year-old has overseen the four game unbeaten run and 11 goals scored. Will it be more of the same on Tuesday night.

LAST TIME WE MET…

Games against Woking have been quite fruitful for the Glovers in recent seasons, having not lost since 2023. When the two sides met back in September at Huish Park, Yeovil won 1-0 thanks to a very late goal from Luke McCormick.

It was in November of 2024 when the Glovers last traveled to the Kingfield Stadium. That day goals from Brett McGavin (and what a goal it was) and Finn Cousin-Dawson sealed the win.

The last time we faced Woking at the Kingfield.

DON’T I KNOW YOU…

The Cards love a former Glover, with three of them in the playing squad.

Jamie Andrews will be a name that may resonate with fans as the defender was on loan at Huish Park from West Brom back in 22/23, playing eight games.

Jamie Andrews playing for YEOVIL TOWN
Jamie Andrews. Picture courtesy of Mike Kunz.

Who remembers Dale Gorman? I know you all do thanks to writing himself into Yeovil history for that penalty against the team that shall not be named. The Northern Irishman came to Somerset in 2021 and played 43 games across his one season at Huish Park.

Dale Gorman scores his penalty vs Weymouth
Dale Gorman scores his penalty vs Weymouth
Credit: Weymouth Flickr

The final man that travelling Glovers will recognise is striker Jake Hyde. The 35-year-old dovetailed with Rhys Murphy back in 2023/24. In his 21 games he scored five goals on the way to the National League South title.

Jake Hyde, appeared after 70 minutes on Tuesday night.
Picture courtesy of Iain Morland.

THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE…

Richie Watkins will be the man with the whistle on Saturday afternoon. For more on him and his team read Ben’s article here.

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Yeovil Town are off to Boston, Lincolnshire (not Massachusetts) this Saturday as they look to take an upward tilt on the Rowley-coaster and get back to winning ways after losing to another Lincolnshire outfit, Scunthorpe United, last weekend.

FORM…

YEOVIL TOWN

It’s a win-one-lose-one kind of situation for the Glovers at the moment, beating Tamworth and Sutton United in between losses to Carlisle United, Southport and Scunthorpe United.

The Glovers haven’t secured an away point – or a victory on the road in any competition – since Terrell Works’ last gasp winner away at Altrincham.

Just 16 of Yeovil’s 41 points have come on the road this season, exactly a point per away game. 15 of Yeovil’s 37 goals have been in away games.

BOSTON UNITED

Boston United are unbeaten in their last four home games, drawing 2-2 and 0-0 against Woking and Tamworth respectively, they did scrape past Gateshead and Sutton United in the games before that to go unbeaten at home in the month of February.

They lost 1-0 to Rochdale last time out, Tyler Smith scoring a late winner for the league leaders.

Since the departure of Graham Coughlan, who was in charge when boss Billy Rowley picked up his first win in his first game in charge at Huish Park back in November, Boston have been in fine form since manager Paul Hurst was appointed on 14th January.

He lost his first match in charge at FC Halifax Town before masterminding an eight-game unbeaten run in the league, including wins at high-flying Boreham Wood, Scunthorpe United and Forest Green Rovers

The Pilgrims sit a whopping seven places above the Glovers, but just three points separate the sides. Their goal difference (-6) compared to ours (-13) means that if we were to win 4-0, we would jump over them with a win, potentially into the top half of the table.

KEY PLAYERS…

YEOVIL TOWN – JAMES DALY

You have to think that James Daly will provide the Glovers with their most likely route to goal after his brace against Sutton and his goal in the FA Trophy.

The former Harrogate and Aldershot man has been instrumental down the right hand side for the Glovers with his energy carrying the attacking unit through games at times.

With Daly on one side and Ryan Jones hitting his stride down the other flank, the Glovers will be hoping for more from their wing wizards.

James Daly celebrates his opening goal at Southport.

BOSTON UNITED – TOM CURSONS

With top scorer Lennell John-Lewis expected to be out for the rest of the season through injury, recent recruit striker Tom Cursons has really stepped up to the goal scoring plate. The 24-year-old, who was one of Hurst’s first signings, has seven goals in eight league games since joining from Harrogate in January.

He played a dozen times for the North Yorkshire side before the switch and found form in the EFL Trophy, but has really hit his stride at Boston.

He scored a hat-trick in a 6-3 win over Scunthorpe, with only three games seeing his failing to score for his new club since joining.

He’s got a nice, new shiny trophy for his mantlepiece after being named the National League Player of the Month for February,

THE GAFFER…

Paul Hurst is the man in charge at Boston these days, he was re-appointed as their manager in January replacing Graham Coughlan. It’s his second stint in charge of Boston having originally left there in 2011, having secured promotion to the National League North.

He is the current National League Manager of the Month – let’s hope the curse lives on.

Oddly, it’s the third side that he’s managed twice with Shrewsbury and Grimsby also having the pleasure on two separate occasions.

He has a 100% win record against the Glovers, twice leading Grimsby to success in the 2021/22 season and once when in charge of the Shrews way back in 2017/18

LAST TIME WE MET…

Yeovil Town won the reverse fixture at Huish Park by a 2-1 score line, Luke McCormick at the double in November.

Last season, both ties went to the away side, Boston winning 3-0 at Huish Park, with the Glovers winning 3-1 away from home in August 2024 thanks in no small part to a couple of Brett McGavin specials.

McCormick puts Yeovil ahead | Photo by Gary Brown

DON’T I KNOW YOU…

There are a couple of former Glovers in the Boston camp; defender Marcel Lavinier has been fairly regular in the side since making his debut when Boston were beaten at Huish Park in November, he played eight times for Yeovil in the National League last season.

You have got to go a bit further back to remember their other ex-Glover man, striker Jordi Hiwula also made eight league appearances in green-and-white on loan from Premier League giants Manchester City, but that was way back in the 2014/15 season. He was on trial at Boston in summer and impressed enough to earn a contract and has been partnered alongside the prolific Cursons in recent weeks.

Marcel Lavinier. Picture courtesy of Gary Brown.

THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE…

Paul Johnson will be the man with the whistle on Saturday afternoon. For more on him and his team read Ben’s article here.

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It’s the Ian Botham Derby this weekend as Yeovil Town take on Scunthorpe United at Huish Park on Saturday afternoon.

FORM…

YEOVIL TOWN

With the Glovers in the midst of small run of bad form, with one win in five, a victory was needed against Tamworth last time out. And a 2-0 win is just what the Huish Park faithful got. Yeovil grew into the game through the first half with a goal looking likely for the home side. They were then rewarded for their good work when Ryan Jones‘ bagged the opener after a mazy solo run through what seemed the entire Tamworth team, on the 40th minute.

Yeovil vs Tamworth.
Yeovil vs Tamworth.

The Glovers then doubled their lead 10 minutes in to the second period when on loan centre-back, Declan Skura, became the scorer. Not only did Billy Rowley‘s men secure all there points, it was potentially the most complete performance this season from the team. Hopefully this was a little glimpse into what the future could look like under the 43-year-old.

SCUNTHORPE UNITED

The Iron haven’t been in the most scintillating form over their last five games with three losses and two draws in that time. However, they do sit sixth in the table, so will no doubt be a dangerous opposition.

The Lincolnshire side didn’t had a game of two halves last time out as they drew 3-3 with Solihull Moors. The first half was one to forget as Conor Wilkinson put The Moors 0-2 up at halftime. The Iron came out all guns blazing and pulled one back through Danny Whitehall on the 48th minute. The action kept coming when Solihull’s Tyler French was sent off just five minutes later. This gave Scunthorpe hope and they equalised with 10 minutes as Whitehall got his second, before completing his hat-trick on the 85th minute. Then just when the home side looked like they secured all three points, Isaac Moore popped up to spoil the party.

With the shipping of those three goals, that was the third time in as many games that The Iron have conceded three goals.

KEY PLAYERS…

YEOVIL TOWN – RYAN JONES

It feels good to be going a couple of games not saying the same two names for once this season. Although Jed Ward and Luke McCormick have been by far our best players this term, it feels like we are becoming less reliant on them two for our wins, other players are starting to step up. Jones is one of those name and although he hasn’t been able to get the run of games he’d have hoped due to being cup tied, he really showed up on Tuesday night.

Ryan Jones in action for Yeovil Town
Ryan Jones tackles Kwaku Donkor. Picture courtesy of Debs Curtis.

You have to start with that wonderful solo effort. The 23-year-old drifted past the Tamworth players like they were not there before striking it past Jasbir Singh from a tight-ish angle on the corner of the six-yard box. Outside of that goal, Jones created plenty and played like a player who wanted to be here (unlike some). As with many this season, let’s hope it’s not just a one off.

SCUNTHORPE UNITED – DANNY WHITEHALL

Whitehall is one of two players I could have picked for this, with Callum Roberts, being the other. And although, Roberts has more goal involvements this season, I have to pick the man who has been plugging away and scoring goals whilst his side have been far from impressive over the last five games.

As mentioned in the form, last time out for the striker was a memorable day. Not only did he help his team get back into a game and pick up a point, he claimed the match ball in doing so. That hat-trick has put him level with Roberts this season on 13 goals this season, with the two fighting it out to be the Iron’s top scorer.

Will Wannell withstand Whitehall?

THE GAFFER…

Andy Butler will be heading to Huish Park on Saturday to take on Billy Rowley. The 42-year-old  has been in charge of the Iron since 2024, when he replaced Jimmy Dean.

It was as the Doncaster Belles, in woman’s football, where Butler cut his teeth as a manager, before he took over as caretaker boss of the mens side, where he had played 245 times.

As a player Butler started his career at Scunthorpe before going on to play for eight other teams. He would play 675 times during his career.

Butler has only faced the Glovers once as a manager, earlier this season, when he won 1-0.

LAST TIME WE MET…

It’s been quite few dull years when these two side have faced off. When they met earlier this season at the Attis Arena, Scunthorpe secured a 1-0 win thanks to a Tyrell Sellars-Fleming goal.
Scunthorpe celebrate Tyrell Sellars-Fleming’s opening goal.

It was an even more drab affair when the last played at Huish Park in 2022, with the game finishing 0-0, here’s hoping for a more lively encounter this time around.

DON’T I KNOW YOU…

There will be no ex-Glovers coming to Huish Park on Saturday.

THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE…

Callum Walchester will be the man with the whistle on Saturday afternoon. For more on him and his team read Ben’s article here.

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It’s back home for Yeovil Town as they take on Tamworth at Huish Park on Tuesday night.

FORM…

YEOVIL TOWN

The Glovers haven’t been in the best of form over the last five games with three losses, a win and a draw in that time. The only win during that time was last week when the Billy Rowley‘s men hosted Sutton United and scraped a 3-2 thanks to two last stoppage time goals.

Last time out the Glovers were beat 1-1 (4-2 on penalties) by Southport in the FA Trophy. With the travelling Glovers faithful optimistic of a Wembley trip, Yeovil soon repaid the support of the travelling fans with a goal just before the break thanks to the in-from James Daly.

The Somerset side couldn’t hang on a conceded with 10 minutes to forcing a shootout, and the less we say about that the better.

The sun sets on our dreams of a Wembley final.

Tamworth

The Staffordshire side are in a better predicament than their counterparts. Over the last five fixtures they are unbeaten with three draws and two wins. Currently sat in 10th, the Lambs are very much one of the in-form sides in the league, with 11 goals scored during the same stretch of games.

It was perhaps last time out that the midlands team showed their growing confidence and quality with a 3-2 win over fourth place Boreham Wood. That result really cemented the credentials of Tamworth heading into the latter part of the season. In form striker (how nice it would be to have one of them) Oliver Lynch bagged two goals with Stefan Mols grabbing the other in the impressive win.

KEY PLAYERS…

YEOVIL TOWN – JAMES DALY

It could only be Daly after the last week. In what has been a very stop start campaign for the winger, over the last two games Daly has been integral to getting goals where other members of the team haven’t. Now it’s not the 26-year-olds fault that for long parts of the season the whole squad has been underperforming, himself included, but the he is given the chance to play he clearly has quality.

James Daly
Pic c/o Gary Brown

It’s understatement to say that eyebrows were raised when we signed him from Harrogate town in the summer, with many believing he was a better standard than us. With a crucial double against Sutton last week and the opening goal against Southport, Daly has proved he has the ability, but let’s hope he can sustain this to show it’s not just a flash in the pan purple patch.

TAMWORTH – OLIVER LYNCH

If we take the last five games as a sample size for form, Lynch is in great form. For a striker it’s all about scoring goals and Lynch has started to find the net more regularly in recent weeks. Across the five game period I talked about, the 21-year-old has bagged four goals in that time.

Two of those four came last time out against Boreham Wood, the on-loan Luton man scored a brace, helping his team to a 3-2 win over the London side. His uptick in form will be pleasing for Lambs fans, but for Yeovil who have at times had an unsure defence, it could be a struggle to keep Lynch under control.

THE GAFFER…

The man in the away dugout on Tuesday night will be the longstanding Andy Peaks. The 55-year-old has been at The Lamb Ground since 2022 now and has helped Tamworth become a recognised National League club in that time.

Before taking over four years ago, Peaks was at boss down at Rushden & Diamonds for nine years, between 2013 and 2022. that was his first job in management after spells as assistant at Rushden & Diamonds, Daventry Town and AFC Long Buckby in the six years prior.

Peaks’ record when facing the Glovers is that of symmetry, with three games played against Yeovil he has won one, drawn one and lost one.

LAST TIME WE MET…

The teams last played each other way back at the start of the campaign in September when Tamworth won 1-0 at The Lamb Ground. The only goal that day coming from Tyler Roberts in the 75th minute. Coincidently it was the only game in the Danny Webb era.
Danny Webb

When the two sides last met at Huish Park it was just over a year ago, it was Yeovil who took the the three points with a 2-1 win over the Lambs. That day, Tamworth took a 0-1 lead through Ronan Maher just before the half hour mark. It wasn’t until the 49th minute that the Glovers equalised through Charlie Cooper. Before Frank Nouble got the winner 10 minutes later.

James Daly scoring for YEOVIL TOWN against Southport.
James Daly celebrates his opening goal at Southport.

DON’T I KNOW YOU…

There will be no former Glovers making the trip to their old stomping ground on Tuesday night.

THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE…

Oliver Mackey will be the man with the whistle on Tuesday night. For more on him and his team read Ben’s article here.