Stogursey FC faced off against Minehead AFC Reserves in a thrilling cup tie at Bridgwater College Academy on 29 November 2024, kicking off at 8:00pm. The match concluded with Stogursey First emerging victorious with a scoreline of 3-1, showcasing a dominant performance that secured their place into the semi-finals of the competition.
Stogursey First lined up in a 4-1-2-3 formation, designed to provide both defensive solidity and attacking flair. Liam Temlett occupied the goalkeeping position, shielded by a back four consisting of Mark Chapman on the right, Sean Marlow and Michael Watts in central defence, and Markus Bail on the left. In front of them, Damian Brown played a pivotal role as the holding midfielder, tasked with breaking up opposition play and distributing the ball effectively. The midfield trio was completed by Daniel Glover and Scott Harman, who operated as attacking midfielders respectively, supporting the forward line. Up front, Joe Edgar, Bradley Walford, and Jake Williams formed a dynamic attacking trio, with Walford leading the line as the central striker.
The substitutes for Stogursey First included Francisco Souza, Matteo Palumbo, Ryan Kercher, and Ben Campbell-Wallis, all of whom were poised to make an impact from the bench.
The match began with both teams probing for an early advantage, but it was Stogursey First who found themselves in the referee's book first, as Damian Brown received a yellow card for kicking the ball away in frustration in the 24th minute. This moment of indiscipline did not deter Stogursey, who continued to press forward as the first half drew to a close.
As the second half commenced, Stogursey made tactical substitutions, bringing on Francisco Souza and Matteo Palumbo for Joe Edgar and Bradley Walford respectively. The changes proved to be pivotal, as Souza wasted no time in making his mark. Just two minutes into his debut, he scored the opening goal in the 47th minute, expertly finishing a team move with a well-placed right-footed shot, assisted by Jake Williams' accurate through-ball.
Souza was not done yet; he doubled Stogursey's lead in the 58th minute, finding the net once more to put his side firmly in control. With Stogursey leading 2-0, Minehead AFC Reserves were left with a mountain to climb.
In the 70th minute, Stogursey made another substitution, introducing Ryan Kercher for Mark Chapman, as they looked to maintain their advantage. However, Minehead AFC Reserves found a glimmer of hope in the 72nd minute when they scored a goal of their own, executing a well-coordinated team move that culminated in a right-footed finish inside the box.
Despite the setback, Stogursey remained resolute and continued to push forward. In the 76th minute, Ben Campbell-Wallis replaced Damian Brown. Campbell-Wallis taking up his place in the left back position, with Bail moving into the midfield.
The final nail in the coffin came in the 82nd minute when Francisco Souza completed his hat-trick with a stunning solo goal from outside the box, leaving the Minehead goalkeeper with no chance.
As the final whistle blew, Stogursey First celebrated a well-deserved 3-1 victory, with Francisco Souza undoubtedly the standout performer of the match, earning the title of Player of the Match for his remarkable contribution on his debut. The victory not only showcased Stogursey's attacking prowess but also highlighted their ability to adapt and respond to challenges, setting them up for an enthralling semi-final contest against Bridgwater Grasshoppers FC.
