Wedgwood FC faced Burslem United in an exhilarating league encounter at the Wedgwood Sports and Social Club on 6th October 2024, with the match concluding in a thrilling 2-2 draw. The game was a showcase of determination and skill, with both teams displaying their attacking prowess and defensive resilience throughout the 90 minutes.
Wedgwood FC lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive base while providing ample support for their attacking players. James Taylor occupied the goalkeeping position, shielded by a back four consisting of Brandyn Williams on the right, Alex Bayley on the left, and the central defensive pairing of Matt Wooliscroft and Jordan Coleman. In midfield, George Barlow and Callum Henry operated as central midfielders, tasked with linking defence and attack. The attacking trio featured Shane Reaney on the right, Nick Bennet on the left, and Craig Cookson in the central attacking midfield role, with Ashley Ibbs leading the line as the striker. The substitutes available for Wedgwood FC included Callum Sutton and Jay Blood.
The match began with both teams eager to assert their dominance. Nick Bennet was quick to make an impact, testing the Burslem United goalkeeper with an early attempt in the 8th minute, but his shot was saved. Just five minutes later, Shane Reaney had a chance to put Wedgwood ahead, but his effort sailed high over the bar. The pressure was mounting, and Alex Bayley showcased his defensive skills with a crucial tackle in the 13th minute, while George Barlow's long pass created a chance, although it did not result in a goal.
Bennet continued to be a thorn in Burslem's side, forcing another save from the goalkeeper in the 17th minute. The Wedgwood defence was equally resolute, with Matt Wooliscroft making a vital interception in the 20th minute to prevent a potential scoring opportunity for the visitors. Ashley Ibbs also had a chance in the 22nd minute, but his shot was saved, as was Craig Cookson's effort four minutes later.
In a concerning turn of events, George Barlow had to be substituted due to injury in the 27th minute, with Callum Sutton coming on to replace him. The game continued to ebb and flow, with Ibbs attempting to break the deadlock in the 28th minute, but his shot was again saved. As the first half drew to a close, James Taylor made a crucial interception in the 33rd minute, ensuring the score remained level.
The breakthrough finally came in the 36th minute when Nick Bennet found the back of the net with a well-placed shot using his right foot, sending the home crowd into raptures. Craig Cookson played a pivotal role in the build-up, providing a key pass just a minute later, although Callum Henry's attempt in the 38th minute went wide. Bennet was relentless, testing the Burslem goalkeeper once more in the 39th minute, but his effort was saved, and Cookson's attempt just before half-time was high, leaving the score at 1-0 as the teams headed into the break.
The second half commenced with Wedgwood looking to build on their lead, but it was Burslem United who struck first, equalising just four minutes after the restart in the 49th minute. The game was now finely poised, and Callum Henry attempted to restore Wedgwood's advantage in the 55th minute, but his shot failed to find the target.
As the match progressed, Jordan Coleman had a chance to put Wedgwood back in front in the 63rd minute, but his effort was saved. Tactical changes were made in the 65th minute, with Jay Blood replacing Ashley Ibbs. However, Burslem United took the lead in the 69th minute, scoring their second goal and putting Wedgwood on the back foot.
In a determined response, Wedgwood made another substitution in the 70th minute, bringing George Barlow back on for Craig Cookson, who had to leave the pitch due to injury. The home side pressed for an equaliser, and their efforts were rewarded in the 77th minute when Nick Bennet scored his second goal of the match with a stunning direct free-kick, bringing the score to 2-2.
With momentum on their side, Bennet continued to threaten, attempting another shot in the 80th minute. Jordan Coleman had a chance to secure a late winner in the 82nd minute, but his shot was saved. Shane Reaney also tried to find the net in the 86th minute, but the match ultimately ended in a draw, leaving both teams with a point.
Jordan Coleman was recognised as the standout performer of the match, showcasing his defensive skills and contributing significantly to the team's efforts. The draw leaves Wedgwood FC and Burslem United with plenty to ponder as they look ahead to their next fixtures.
