In a thrilling cup encounter at GBS Stadium on 18 January 2025, Ipswich Exiles Wanderers U15's edged past Martlesham U15 Raptors with a narrow 1-0 victory. The match, which kicked off at 10:30 am, showcased a determined performance from the home side, who managed to secure their place in the next round of the competition.
Ipswich Exiles Wanderers lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking flair. Zack Baker took his position in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Tye Phair on the right, Reece Turner and Robson Sheldrake in central defence, and Riley Bevan on the left. The midfield duo of Jack Bewsher and Joel Burgess were tasked with controlling the centre of the park, while Will Gower, Daniel Chapman, and Jake Youngs provided width and creativity in the attacking midfield roles. Leighton Walker led the line as the lone striker, expected to convert chances into goals.
The substitutes for the match included Lucas Wood, Lorenzo Palladino, Heidy Abbas, Charlie Peck, and Hayden Tyler, all ready to make an impact from the bench as the game unfolded.
The first significant moment came in the 21st minute when Lucas Wood replaced Joel Burgess, a tactical switch aimed at bolstering the midfield. Just a minute later, Lorenzo Palladino entered the fray for Daniel Chapman, further emphasising the Exiles' intent to control the game.
Ipswich Exiles Wanderers took the lead in the 25th minute, with Robson Sheldrake finding the back of the net after a well-placed assist from Will Gower. This goal injected confidence into the home side, who began to assert their dominance on the pitch.
In the 28th minute, Heidy Abbas came on for Will Gower, who had played a crucial role in the build-up to the goal. The tactical changes continued as Charlie Peck replaced Jake Youngs in the 32nd minute, with both substitutions aimed at maintaining the attacking momentum.
As the first half drew to a close, Hayden Tyler was introduced for Leighton Walker in the 40th minute, ensuring fresh legs were on the pitch as the Exiles sought to protect their slender lead. The half-time whistle blew shortly after, with Ipswich Exiles Wanderers leading 1-0.
The second half saw further tactical adjustments, starting with Joel Burgess returning to the pitch in the 57th minute, taking the place of Jack Bewsher. This change aimed to reinforce the midfield as Martlesham sought to find an equaliser.
In the 61st minute, Daniel Chapman re-entered the game, replacing Heidy Abbas, as Ipswich continued to shuffle their deck in search of stability and control. The final substitution for the Exiles came in the 70th minute when Jake Youngs replaced Riley Bevan, adding fresh energy to the left flank.
Despite Martlesham's attempts to break down the Ipswich defence, the home side held firm, with Tye Phair earning accolades for his commanding performance throughout the match. The final whistle confirmed a hard-fought victory for Ipswich Exiles Wanderers, who now look forward to the next round of the cup with renewed confidence.
