In a gripping encounter at the George Pitcher Memorial Ground on 23 February 2025, Hedgerley FC and FC Dukes Head FC played out a dramatic 3-3 draw in their league clash. The match, which kicked off at 10:30 am, saw both teams exchange goals in a contest that kept spectators on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
Hedgerley FC lined up in a 4-5-1 formation, designed to bolster their midfield presence while allowing for quick transitions to attack. Chris Randall took his place in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Chris Smith and Bradley Oxbrow as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Charlie Parkin and Jack Wright forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, Rory Scott occupied the right flank, while Tyrese Weekes patrolled the left. Central duties were shared by Oliver Cottrill, Adam Butler, and Jack Butler, with Conor Henry leading the line as the lone striker.
The substitutes for Hedgerley FC included Billy Long, who would later be called upon to make an impact from the bench.
The match began with both teams probing for weaknesses, but it was Hedgerley FC who struck first. In the 19th minute, Adam Butler found the back of the net, courtesy of a well-timed assist from Conor Henry, giving Hedgerley a 1-0 lead. The momentum shifted as the first half progressed, but neither side could add to the scoreline before the referee signalled for half-time at 45 minutes.
As the second half commenced, Hedgerley FC looked to build on their advantage. In the 63rd minute, Conor Henry doubled the lead, finishing off a move initiated by Chris Smith, who provided the assist. However, just a minute later, Chris Smith found himself in the referee's book, receiving a yellow card for a late challenge.
The game took a dramatic turn in the 69th minute when Dukes Head FC pulled one back, igniting their hopes of a comeback. But Hedgerley responded immediately, with Conor Henry netting his second goal of the match just a minute later, again assisted by Smith, restoring the two-goal cushion at 3-1.
With the clock ticking, Dukes Head FC refused to back down. They scored again in the 78th minute, narrowing the gap to 3-2, and then equalised in the 80th minute, completing a remarkable turnaround that left the match finely poised at 3-3.
In the midst of this intense action, Hedgerley made a substitution in the 70th minute, bringing on Billy Long for Jack Butler. Shortly after, Adam Butler was replaced by Jack Butler in the 74th minute, as Hedgerley sought fresh legs to maintain their lead. In the 81st minute, Bradley Oxbrow made way for Adam Butler, as the team looked to shore up their defence in the closing stages.
As the final whistle blew, both teams were left to reflect on a match that showcased resilience and determination. The draw leaves Hedgerley FC and Dukes Head FC with plenty to ponder as they continue their league campaigns, each side having demonstrated their attacking prowess and fighting spirit in a thrilling encounter.
