In a disappointing league encounter at the Excel Academy on 23 March 2025, Wedgwood FC faced a challenging match against Red Cow, ultimately succumbing to a 4-1 defeat. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, and despite a spirited effort, Wedgwood could not match the intensity and quality of their opponents.
Wedgwood FC lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking creativity. Adam Dunn took his place in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Brandyn Williams and Shane Reaney as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Jordan Coleman and Ricci Edwards forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, George Barlow and Callum Henry operated as central midfielders, tasked with linking play and providing support to the attacking trio. Ashley Ibbs and Nick Bennet occupied the right and left attacking midfield positions, while Craig Cookson played centrally behind striker Owen Bott, who was the focal point of the attack. The substitutes for the match included Mason Mckenna, Nick Fricker, and Jay Blood.
The match began with Red Cow asserting their dominance early on, scoring the opening goal just four minutes in. This early setback put Wedgwood on the back foot, forcing them to regroup quickly. Ashley Ibbs attempted to respond shortly after, but his effort went wide of the mark in the sixth minute. Callum Henry then had a chance to level the score in the eighth minute, but his shot was saved by the Red Cow goalkeeper.
Adam Dunn was called into action in the twelfth minute, making a point-blank reaction save to deny Red Cow a second goal. Moments later, Ricci Edwards made a crucial interception, preventing another clear chance for the opposition. However, Red Cow's pressure paid off again in the eighteenth minute, as they scored their second goal, leaving Wedgwood trailing by two.
Despite the mounting pressure, George Barlow managed to create a chance with a key pass in the same minute, but it was not enough to change the tide. Dunn was forced into action once more, making another impressive save in the nineteenth minute, while Jordan Coleman also contributed defensively with an interception shortly after.
Nick Bennet provided a glimmer of hope for Wedgwood in the thirty-fourth minute, scoring their only goal of the match with an assist from Dunn, who had played a crucial role in the build-up. However, just before half-time, Red Cow struck again, scoring their third goal in the forty-third minute, leaving Wedgwood with a mountain to climb as they headed into the break.
The second half saw immediate changes for Wedgwood, with Mason Mckenna and Nick Fricker coming on for Owen Bott and Callum Henry, respectively. The match continued to be physical, and Ricci Edwards received a yellow card for serious foul play in the fifty-fifth minute. Fricker made an impact shortly after, delivering a key pass that could have led to a goal.
Mckenna had a chance to reduce the deficit in the sixty-fifth minute, but his attempt was saved. Dunn showcased his goalkeeping prowess again in the seventieth minute, making a solid catch to keep Wedgwood in the game. Tactical changes were made in the seventy-fifth minute as Jay Blood replaced Ricci Edwards.
As the match drew to a close, Red Cow increased their lead after a defensive error from nick fricker, scoring an own goal in the eighty fifth minute, further extending their lead to 4-1. Nick Bennet tried to salvage some pride for Wedgwood with a late attempt in the eighty-eighth minute, but his shot sailed high over the bar.
Despite the defeat, Shane Reaney stood out as a key performer for Wedgwood FC, demonstrating resilience and determination throughout the match. The result leaves Wedgwood with much to ponder as they look to bounce back in their next fixture.
