Wedgwood FC secured a convincing 3-1 victory against Chesterton Bucks in a thrilling cup tie held at the Wedgwood Sports and Social Club on 2nd February 2025. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, with both teams eager to progress in the competition, but it was the home side that emerged victorious after a dominant performance.
Wedgwood FC lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while providing ample support to their attacking players. Adam Dunn took his place in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Shane Reaney and Alex Bayley as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Jordan Coleman and Henri Royals forming the central defensive partnership. In front of them, Jay Blood and Callum Henry operated as central midfielders, tasked with both breaking up opposition play and initiating attacks. The attacking trio comprised Ashley Ibbs on the right, Nick Bennet on the left, and Craig Cookson in the central attacking midfield role, while Owen Bott led the line as the lone striker.
The match began with both teams testing each other's defences, but it was Wedgwood FC who struck first. The opening goal came from a well-worked move that saw the ball played into the path of Owen Bott, who finished clinically to give his side the lead. The home crowd erupted in celebration as the momentum shifted firmly in favour of Wedgwood.
As the first half progressed, Wedgwood continued to apply pressure, with their midfield duo of Blood and Henry controlling the tempo of the game. The Chesterton Bucks struggled to cope with the attacking flair of the home side, and it wasn't long before Wedgwood doubled their advantage. A swift counter-attack culminated in a precise cross from the left, which was expertly converted by Nick Bennet, sending the home fans into raptures.
Chesterton Bucks, however, were not to be dismissed easily. They rallied towards the end of the first half, creating a couple of chances that tested Dunn in goal. Despite their efforts, they were unable to find the back of the net before the referee signalled for half-time, with Wedgwood leading 2-0.
The second half saw Chesterton Bucks come out with renewed determination, and they managed to pull a goal back early on. A defensive lapse from Wedgwood allowed the Bucks' striker to pounce, slotting the ball past Dunn to reduce the deficit to 2-1. This goal injected life into the visitors, who began to believe they could stage a comeback.
Wedgwood, however, remained composed and quickly regained control of the match. Their attacking prowess was evident as they continued to create opportunities, and it wasn't long before they restored their two-goal cushion. A brilliant individual effort from Craig Cookson saw him weave through the Chesterton defence before unleashing a powerful shot that found the back of the net, making it 3-1.
With the clock ticking down, Wedgwood FC managed the game effectively, ensuring that Chesterton Bucks struggled to create any clear-cut chances. The home side's defence, marshalled expertly by Royals and Coleman, held firm against any late pressure.
As the final whistle blew, Wedgwood FC celebrated a well-deserved victory, with Henri Royals earning the accolade of Player of the Match for his commanding performance at the back. The win not only secured their progression in the cup but also showcased their attacking flair and defensive resilience, setting a positive tone for the remainder of the season.
