In a thrilling league encounter at the Clifton Upon Dunsmore Playing Field on 29th September 2024, The Stag FC emerged victorious with a final score of 7-4 against Gatehouse Tavern FC. The match, which kicked off at 11:00 am, saw both teams displaying attacking prowess and defensive lapses, resulting in a captivating spectacle for the 20 spectators in attendance.
The Stag FC adopted a 3-4-1-2 formation, designed to maximise both defensive solidity and attacking options. In goal, Dylan Tellyn was supported by a back three consisting of Alex Vineall, Harry Dominy, and Jack Cannell, who were tasked with holding firm against the opponent's forwards. The midfield was anchored by Shane Osborne and Tom Bishop in central roles, while Adam Gould and Jaidon Cole operated as right and left midfielders, respectively. Kasey Hughes took up a pivotal position as the attacking midfielder, looking to link play and create chances for the front two, Alex Platt and Jay Lawes, who were positioned as right and left forwards.
The Stag FC’s bench did not feature any substitutes for this match, indicating the confidence in the starting eleven as they prepared to take on their opponents.
The match began with intensity, but it wasn't long before the first significant event occurred. Just nine minutes in, Alex Vineall received a yellow card for denying a goalscoring opportunity, an early indication of the competitive nature of the clash.
The Stag FC took the lead in the 28th minute, with Shane Osborne finding the net after a well-placed assist from Adam Gould. This goal ignited the home side, and they quickly followed up with a second goal in the 36th minute. Jaidon Cole scored with a powerful header, courtesy of a pinpoint cross from Alex Platt, showcasing the team's attacking capabilities.
However, Gatehouse Tavern FC responded before the half-time whistle. In quick succession, they converted a penalty in the 41st minute, followed by a goal in the 42nd minute stemming from a defensive mistake by The Stag FC, bringing the score to 2-2 just before the break. Things took a turn for the worse for The Stag FC when Jaidon Cole received a red card for violent conduct in stoppage time, leaving them to face the second half with ten men.
The second half kicked off with The Stag FC needing to regroup. Just seven minutes after the break, in the 52nd minute, Jay Lawes restored the lead for The Stag FC with an exquisite strike from outside the area, assisted by goalkeeper Dylan Tellyn, who initiated the attack.
The momentum shifted back to Gatehouse Tavern FC in the 56th minute, as they took advantage of another defensive slip to equalise once again. Undeterred, The Stag FC surged ahead in the 65th minute when Kasey Hughes was awarded a penalty, successfully converting it with precision after a foul in the box, making the score 4-3.
The very next minute, Jay Lawes netted again, this time tapping in from close range following a clever assist by Kasey Hughes. The scoring spree continued as Kasey Hughes found the back of the net once more in the 70th minute, tapping in a goal after another assist from Alex Platt, extending the lead to 6-3.
Gatehouse Tavern FC managed to pull one back in the 82nd minute with a header, but The Stag FC wasn’t finished yet. Kasey Hughes capped off a remarkable performance by scoring his third goal of the match in the 84th minute, assisted by Shane Osborne, sealing a resounding 7-4 victory for The Stag FC.
The encounter showcased a blend of skill, determination, and a bit of drama, and it was Jay Lawes who stood out with his impactful contributions, earning him recognition as one of the standout players of the match. The Stag FC will undoubtedly take confidence from this exhilarating win as they look to continue their strong league campaign.
