In a closely contested league match at Haywood Way on 9 March 2025, Aylesbury Vale Dynamos faced off against Thame FC Black, ultimately succumbing to a 2-1 defeat. The match kicked off at 9:30 am and showcased a spirited performance from both sides, but it was the visitors who emerged victorious.
Aylesbury Vale Dynamos lined up in a 3-4-1 formation, with Charley Sweeny in goal, flanked by a defensive trio of Kai Vaughan, Ryan Goldan, and Oli White. The midfield was anchored by Theo Lewis-Smith and Caleb De Silva in central roles, while Teddy Cheesman and Noah Weaving operated on the right and left flanks, respectively. Manni Taylor led the line as the lone striker, tasked with converting chances into goals. The substitutes for the match included Gaetan Yat and Harrison Walcott.
The match began with an early scare for Aylesbury as Charley Sweeny was called into action just a minute in, making a remarkable point-blank reaction save to deny Thame FC Black an early goal. Sweeny continued to impress, showcasing his agility with a series of full-stretch saves in the sixth, eighth, and nineteenth minutes, keeping the scoreline level despite mounting pressure from the visitors.
As the first half progressed, Aylesbury began to find their rhythm, and Noah Weaving came close to breaking the deadlock in the 26th minute, striking the crossbar with a powerful effort. Moments later, Sweeny was again involved, this time punching the ball clear to relieve the pressure. However, just a minute later, Thame FC Black found the back of the net, taking a 1-0 lead in the 27th minute.
In response to the goal, Aylesbury made a tactical change, bringing on Gaetan Yat for Theo Lewis-Smith in the 30th minute. The first half concluded shortly thereafter, with Aylesbury trailing by a single goal.
The second half saw Aylesbury make another substitution, with Harrison Walcott replacing Kai Vaughan just a minute after the restart. Aylesbury's determination paid off in the 39th minute when Noah Weaving equalised, converting a close-range effort following a well-placed cross from Caleb De Silva. The home side's joy was palpable as they celebrated the equaliser, igniting hopes of a comeback.
Dynamos very nearly took the lead with shots from Teddy Cheesman and Noah Weaving which were saved and sent over the crossbar respectively.
However, the momentum was short-lived. Aylesbury struggled to maintain their advantage, and in the 59th minute, Thame FC Black struck again, regaining the lead with their second goal. Aylesbury pressed for an equaliser, but their efforts were thwarted, and they were unable to find the back of the net again.
Dynamos were forced to mak a late substitution in the 61st minute, bringing Theo Lewis-Smith back on for goalkeeper Charley Sweeny, who had to leave the pitch due to injury. Despite their best efforts, Aylesbury could not find a way back into the match, and the final whistle confirmed a disappointing 2-1 defeat.
The match showcased Aylesbury Vale Dynamos' resilience and fighting spirit right until the final whistle with every player backing up the teammate next to him, but ultimately it was Thame FC Black who took home the three points, leaving Aylesbury to reflect on missed opportunities.
A great performance from Charley Sweeny inbetween the goalposts today keeping the Dynamos in the game in the first half and a dominate and tenacious display from player of the match Oli White today!.
Goalscorer: Noah Weaving
Assist: Caleb De Silva
Player of the match: Oli White
Runner up players of the match: Charley Sweeny and Teddy Cheesman.
