In a disappointing cup encounter at Farnham Park Playing Fields on 16 February 2025, Hedgerley FC faced a formidable Pobbers FC Development side, succumbing to a heavy 6-1 defeat. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, with referee Mark Branwhite overseeing the proceedings.
Hedgerley FC lined up in a 4-5-1 formation, aiming to bolster their midfield presence while relying on a lone striker to spearhead their attack. Chris Randall took his place in goal, shielded by a back four comprising John Lobo on the right, Adam Butler and Charlie Parkin in central defence, and Chris Smith on the left. The midfield was packed with Lewis Scott on the right, Rory Scott and Oliver Cottrill centrally, and Brandon Belmar on the left, while Liam Neale operated as the solitary striker up front. The substitutes for the match included Ollie Mulvihill, Lewis Linley, Brandon Wallis, and Spencer Neale.
The match began with both teams probing for an early advantage, but it was Pobbers FC Development who struck first, taking the lead in the 30th minute. A swift attack culminated in a well-placed shot that found the back of the net, sending a clear message to Hedgerley FC. Just a minute later, the visitors doubled their lead, capitalising on a defensive lapse to score again, leaving Hedgerley FC reeling.
In response to the mounting pressure, Hedgerley made a double substitution in the 32nd minute, bringing on Ollie Mulvihill for Lewis Scott and Lewis Linley for John Lobo, hoping to inject fresh energy into their ranks. However, the first half concluded with the score at 2-0 in favour of Pobbers FC Development, leaving Hedgerley FC with much to ponder during the break.
The second half commenced with Hedgerley FC looking to regroup, but their hopes were dashed shortly after the restart when Pobbers FC Development scored their third goal in the 51st minute. The visitors continued to dominate, and just three minutes later, they added a fourth, leaving Hedgerley FC in a dire situation.
In an attempt to change the tide, Hedgerley made another substitution in the 64th minute, introducing Brandon Wallis for Brandon Belmar. However, the relentless Pobbers FC Development side struck again in the 66th minute, extending their lead to 5-0.
With the game seemingly slipping away, Hedgerley FC finally found a glimmer of hope in the 76th minute. Adam Butler scored a direct free kick, expertly assisted by Oliver Cottrill, bringing the score to 5-1 and igniting a brief spark of enthusiasm among the home supporters.
Unfortunately for Hedgerley, their joy was short-lived as Pobbers FC Development responded with a sixth goal just two minutes later, restoring their five-goal cushion. In the 69th minute, Hedgerley made their final substitution, with Spencer Neale coming on for Liam Neale, but it was clear that the damage had already been done.
As the match drew to a close, Hedgerley FC were left to reflect on a challenging performance against a well-drilled Pobbers FC Development side. The final whistle confirmed a heavy defeat, a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead in their cup campaign.
