In a commanding performance, Roebuck triumphed over Forest Falcons with a resounding 4-1 victory during their league encounter at Brown Westhead Pitch 4 on 2nd February 2025. The match kicked off at 10:45 am, showcasing Roebuck's attacking prowess and tactical discipline throughout the 90 minutes.
Roebuck lined up in a classic 4-4-2 formation, designed to provide both defensive solidity and attacking width. Chris Hubball took his position in goal, while the back four consisted of Oliver Parkes and Bradley Hackett as the right and left defenders respectively, with Lewis Perry and Ryan McCullagh forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, Christopher Hunt and Corey Rogers operated on the right and left flanks, providing pace and creativity, while Dan Lees and James Beddard anchored the centre. Up front, Daniel Lander and Michael Woodall were tasked with leading the line, looking to exploit any gaps in the Forest Falcons' defence.
The substitutes for Roebuck included Joe Walton, Lewis Harrison, Cameron Hyde, Alistair Brown, and Kevin Burns, all of whom would be ready to make an impact as the match unfolded.
The match got off to a sensational start for Roebuck, with Corey Rogers finding the net just two minutes in. A precise cross from Michael Woodall set up Rogers, who finished from close range, sending an early message to the Forest Falcons.
Roebuck continued to press their advantage, and in the 21st minute, Christopher Hunt doubled the lead with a clever flick from another assist by Woodall, showcasing the attacking synergy between the two players. Hunt's goal came from inside the box, demonstrating Roebuck's dominance in the final third.
The away side's relentless pressure paid off again in the 31st minute when Hunt struck once more, this time with a well-placed left-footed shot following a cross from Corey Rogers. Roebuck's attacking trio was proving to be a nightmare for the Forest Falcons' defence, leaving them scrambling to contain the onslaught.
As the first half drew to a close, Michael Woodall added to the tally with a stunning lob from outside the box in the 37th minute, leaving the Forest Falcons' goalkeeper with no chance. Roebuck went into the half-time break with a commanding 4-0 lead, a testament to their attacking prowess and tactical execution.
The second half saw Roebuck make several substitutions to manage their lead. Joe Walton replaced Lewis Perry, while Lewis Harrison came on for Corey Rogers, both changes occurring at the start of the half. Cameron Hyde then replaced Bradley Hackett, and Alistair Brown came on for Christopher Hunt, all in an effort to maintain fresh legs on the pitch. Further substitutions saw Kevin Burns replace Oliver Parkes in the 52nd minute, and Corey Rogers returned to the pitch, taking the place of James Beddard in the 58th minute
Forest Falcons managed to pull one back in the 61st minute, scoring their only goal of the match, but it was too little, too late.
Roebuck missed a host of chances in the second half with the stand out effort being a Joe Walton header hitting the crossbar. In the 73rd minute, Christopher Hunt re-entered the fray, replacing Dan Lees, while Lewis Perry returned to the pitch, taking over from Daniel Lander. Finally, Bradley Hackett came back on for Ryan McCullagh in the 81st minute, ensuring Roebuck maintained their stronghold on the game.
As the final whistle blew, Roebuck celebrated a comprehensive victory, with Christopher Hunt earning the Player of the Match accolade for his outstanding performance, contributing significantly to the scoreline. The match highlighted Roebuck's attacking capabilities and solidified their position in the league, leaving Forest Falcons with much to ponder as they regroup for their next challenge.
